why make this recipe
Classic American Goulash is a beloved comfort food that is simple, hearty, and perfect for families. It combines ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful sauce in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This dish not only warms you up but also fills you up, making it a great option for any day of the week.
how to make Classic American Goulash
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Optional: bell peppers or mushrooms, chopped
Directions :
- In a large pot or deep skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic (and any optional veggies) and cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, then stir in the uncooked macaroni. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Optionally, stir in or sprinkle shredded cheese on top just before serving.
how to serve Classic American Goulash
Serve Classic American Goulash hot from the pot. It’s best enjoyed with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top, adding a nice, creamy flavor. You can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
how to store Classic American Goulash
To store any leftovers, let the goulash cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Classic American Goulash
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta in the pot; it should be tender but still firm enough to hold its shape.
- For added flavor, try using beef broth instead of water and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
variation
You can personalize Classic American Goulash by adding more vegetables or using different kinds of meat, like turkey or chicken. If you prefer a spicy version, consider adding some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mix for an extra kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of elbow macaroni?
Yes, whole wheat pasta can be used instead. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may differ from regular elbow macaroni.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
3. How do I reheat leftover goulash?
You can reheat leftover goulash on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave by heating it in a microwave-safe dish for a few minutes. Just make sure to stir it halfway through for even heating.
Classic American Goulash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1.5 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 cup beef broth or water Beef broth adds more flavor.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Great for topping before serving.
- bell peppers or mushrooms, chopped Optional add-ins for extra flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot or deep skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic (and any optional veggies) and cook until softened.
Cooking
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, then stir in the uncooked macaroni.
- Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
- Optionally, stir in or sprinkle shredded cheese on top just before serving.