American Goulash Recipe

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef and Onion

• Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
• Drain any excess fat from the pan.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

• Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. If you like a slightly sweeter sauce, you can also add a teaspoon of sugar at this point to cut the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.

3. Cook the Pasta

• Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir to ensure the pasta is well mixed into the sauce.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you find the sauce getting too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

4. Add the Finishing Touches

• Once the pasta is cooked, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.
• For a creamy, cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the goulash and let it melt into the hot mixture before serving. This is optional but adds a delicious layer of richness.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the American Goulash hot, and enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Tips for Customizing American Goulash

While the classic version of American Goulash is delicious as is, there are many ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:

• Add Vegetables: If you want to sneak in more veggies, feel free to add some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. You can cook them along with the onion and garlic for added flavor.
• Use Different Pasta: While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with other types of pasta such as rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta for a fun twist.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the dish when you add the garlic and onions. This will give the goulash a nice kick.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version of the dish.
• Cheese Variations: Try different kinds of cheese on top, such as mozzarella, provolone, or a sharp cheddar blend for a unique flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This American Goulash Recipe

• Easy and Quick: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes and is made with common ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something comforting but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
• Family-Friendly: With its simple flavors and hearty ingredients, American Goulash is a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to feed the whole family on a budget.
• Versatile: You can tweak the recipe to your taste and dietary preferences, making it a dish you can enjoy time and time again.
• Comforting: The warm, savory flavors of this goulash are the epitome of comfort food. It’s filling, satisfying, and sure to bring smiles around the dinner table.

Final Thoughts

American Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, offering a filling, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to satisfy your hunger. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and room for customization, it’s a go-to recipe that everyone will love.

Give this American Goulash recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Happy cooking!