Classic American Goulash

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, then you have to try this Classic American Goulash. This dish has been a favorite in my family for as long as I can remember. It’s the perfect blend of hearty ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone around the table.

What makes this American Goulash so special is its simplicity and heartiness. It’s one of those meals where the leftovers taste even better the next day! Plus, it’s quick to make, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors and textures.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion—dinner parties, potlucks, or cozy nights at home.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and reheat for later; it tastes just as good!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices and sauces creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this Classic American Goulash anytime you’re craving comfort food.

• 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 medium Yellow Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 28 oz Diced Tomatoes (undrained)
• 15 oz Tomato Sauce
• 6 oz Tomato Paste
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1/2 tsp Dried Basil
• 1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
• 1 lb Elbow Macaroni
• Optional Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for topping)

Variations

This Classic American Goulash is quite flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you love some heat.
• Go dairy-free: Omit the cheese topping or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.

How to Make Classic American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned. Be sure to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Draining off any excess grease is important; we want our goulash rich but not greasy!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add your chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until they soften, about five minutes. This step is essential because sautéing them brings out their sweetness, adding depth to our dish.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices

Now it’s time to stir in those vibrant diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer; this helps meld all those fantastic flavors together!

Step 4: Incorporate Elbow Macaroni

Once your mixture is simmering nicely, add in the elbow macaroni. Stir well to ensure that each piece of pasta gets submerged in that delicious sauce. Bring it back to a simmer before reducing the heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for about 15–20 minutes until the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened. Don’t forget to stir occasionally—this prevents sticking!

Step 5: Let It Rest

Remove from heat and let your goulash stand for about five minutes before serving. This little resting period allows everything to settle nicely.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Serve hot with optional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite of your Classic American Goulash!

Pro Tips for Making Classic American Goulash

Making Classic American Goulash is a breeze, but these pro tips will help elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use high-quality ground beef: Choosing an 80/20 blend ensures the meat remains juicy and flavorful, giving your goulash that rich taste everyone loves.
• Don’t skip the simmering: Allowing the mixture to simmer not only melds the flavors beautifully but also thickens the sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
• Cook the macaroni just right: Keeping an eye on your elbow macaroni is crucial; overcooking it can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente for the perfect bite!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your palate. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give a nice kick!
• Make it ahead of time: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat on low heat when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Classic American Goulash

Serving Classic American Goulash can be as fun as making it! With its vibrant colors and comforting aroma, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped herbs add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up this hearty dish.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of either adds a creamy tang that balances out the richness of the goulash.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making it an irresistible pairing.
• Green Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes provides a refreshing contrast to the warm goulash.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans offer a nutritious side that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with goulash, adding a delightful texture to your meal.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving ideas, gather your loved ones around the table, serve them some comfort in a bowl, and enjoy every bite of this classic dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic American Goulash is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the goulash into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the goulash may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the contents and date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for a quick defrost.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely; heat in intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Classic American Goulash.

Can I make Classic American Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. Just store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and you can enjoy it throughout the week.

What can I substitute for ground beef in Classic American Goulash?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat substitutes.

How do I know when my Classic American Goulash is done cooking?

The goulash is done when the macaroni is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce, creating a thick consistency. Be sure to stir occasionally while it cooks!

Can I customize my Classic American Goulash recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Classic American Goulash as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for something easy during a busy week, this goulash will surely become a family favorite. Happy cooking!