Why Make This Recipe
American Goulash is a warm and comforting dish that feels like a big hug on a chilly day. It brings together simple ingredients in one pot, making it a quick and easy meal for busy families. Packed with flavor and satisfying, it’s a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can easily feed a crowd!
How to Make American Goulash
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (24 oz) jar pasta sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it is browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir to combine everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender.
- If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt before serving hot.
How to Serve American Goulash
Serve American Goulash hot right out of the pot. It’s perfect on its own, but you can also enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. For a bit of extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs or extra cheese on top.
How to Store American Goulash
To store leftovers, let the goulash cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate it into portions before freezing for easy reheating!
Tips to Make American Goulash
- For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a twist on flavor.
- If you like more veggies, toss in some chopped zucchini or spinach before simmering.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter touch.
FAQs
1. Can I use different pasta?
Yes! You can use any small pasta like penne or shells, but make sure to adjust cooking times if necessary.
2. Is American Goulash the same as chili?
No, while both are hearty dishes, American Goulash includes pasta and is more tomato-based, while chili typically focuses on beans and spices.
3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add in vegetables like corn, peas, or carrots to increase the nutrition and flavor of the dish.
American Goulash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 24 oz jar pasta sauce
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it is browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir to combine everything well.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender.
- If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt before serving hot.