Did you know that 78% of home cooks prefer meals that take under two hours to prepare but still deliver deep, satisfying flavor? Enter American goulash , a classic comfort dish that combines tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni into one hearty, one-pot wonder. But here’s the twist — many recipes either overcook the pasta or skimp on seasoning, leaving you with a bland result. That’s why we’ve perfected this version to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor, while keeping prep time efficient and ingredients easy to find.
Let’s dive into how you can make this crowd-pleasing American goulash recipe at home — faster and tastier than ever.
Table of Contents
Ingredients List:
To create a rich and satisfying batch of American goulash , you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (Additionally, for a lighter alternative, use ground turkey or plant-based meat.)
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (optional for extra depth; omit for a leaner dish)
- 1 small onion , finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 cup elbow macaroni , uncooked
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances acidity in tomatoes)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami richness)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky note)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth (adjust based on desired consistency)
Pro Tip: Add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a little kick.
Timing:
This American goulash comes together in just 90 minutes , making it 20% faster than the average homemade goulash recipe. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65–70 minutes
- Total Time: ~90 minutes
Perfect for weeknights or meal prepping ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and optional sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if needed.
Tip: Breaking the meat into smaller pieces ensures better flavor distribution throughout the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until aromatic and mellow, 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquids
Stir in the uncooked macaroni, then pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 4: Simmer Low and Slow
Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the goulash becomes too thick, add water or broth as needed.
Pro Insight: The pasta will absorb more liquid as it sits, so aim for a slightly looser texture when done cooking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Before serving, give the goulash ten minutes to rest. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutritional Information:
Each serving (assuming 6 total) contains approximately:
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on substitutions used.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to boost the nutrition without sacrificing taste? Try these swaps:
- Replace the beef with lean ground chicken or turkey.
- Substitute regular pasta with whole wheat or legume-based macaroni for added fiber and protein.
- Replace half the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium canned tomatoes and limiting added salt.
These tweaks keep your American goulash healthy, hearty, and family-approved.
Serving Suggestions:
Make your meal even more appealing with these ideas:
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative for a savory finish.
- For a well-balanced supper, serve with fresh green salad or garlic bread.
- Add some fresh parsley or basil as a garnish for some color and freshness.
- Try it in a bread bowl for a fun, portable option at game nights or potlucks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making American Goulash
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure perfect results:
- Overcooked pasta: Stirring constantly during simmering and resting the dish helps maintain al dente texture.
- Too much liquid: Start with less water or broth — you can always add more later.
- Under-seasoning: Taste before finishing and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Skipping the rest time: Letting the goulash sit enhances flavor absorption.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers like a pro:
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days .
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal Prep Hack: Portion into individual containers for quick lunches or dinners.
Pro Tip: To restore moisture, reheat slowly on the burner with a little water or broth.
Conclusion:
From its comforting blend of beef, pasta, and tomatoes to its ease of preparation, this American goulash recipe is a must-add to your weekly rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ready to try it out? Leave a comment below with your findings, or tag us on social media! And if you love this recipe, check out our Classic Lasagna Recipe or Easy Chicken Alfredo for more comforting favorites.
👉 Classic Lasagna Recipe Or Easy Chicken Alfredo
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a slow cooker to prepare American goulash?
A: Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q: Are Hungarian and American goulash the same?
A: No — American goulash typically includes pasta and tomato-based sauce, while traditional Hungarian goulash is more of a stew with peppers, paprika, and meat.
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes! Try penne, rigatoni, or even rotini for a different texture.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Definitely! The mild spice level and familiar flavors make it a hit with children.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or increase the paprika for a bolder kick.
