American Goulash Recipe

In the realm of cozy, family-friendly dinners, American Goulash reigns supreme in our household. It’s one of those recipes that instantly evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood dinners and comforting aromas filling the kitchen. For me, it’s more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. I’ve been making this American Goulash recipe for years, and it’s consistently a crowd-pleaser, even with the pickiest eaters in my family. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of tender ground beef, hearty macaroni pasta, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile – perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering. This isn’t your fancy, complicated dish; it’s honest-to-goodness comfort food at its finest. If you’re craving a meal that’s both deeply satisfying and easy to make, look no further. This American Goulash recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your own home, bringing smiles and full bellies with every spoonful. Get ready to rediscover the simple joy of a classic, home-cooked meal!

Ingredients: Assembling Your American Goulash Essentials

To create a truly delicious and satisfying American Goulash, you’ll need a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to make this comforting classic, with notes on ingredient choices and potential substitutions.

For the Goulash Base (Flavorful and Hearty):

• 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended): Ground beef is the cornerstone of American Goulash, providing rich flavor and heartiness. An 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) is recommended for optimal flavor and moisture. Leaner ground beef (90/10 or leaner) can be used for a lower fat option, but the goulash may be slightly less rich. Ground turkey or ground chicken can also be used for leaner variations (see substitutions below).
• 1 large Onion, chopped: Onion forms the aromatic base of the goulash, adding savory depth and sweetness as it cooks down. Yellow or white onion works well. Chop it into small dice for even cooking and to blend seamlessly into the sauce.
• 2-3 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic provides a pungent, savory aroma and flavor that is essential to goulash. Freshly minced garlic is best for optimal flavor. Jarred minced garlic can be used for convenience.
• 1 (28 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes form the main component of the tomato-based sauce, providing body, acidity, and classic goulash flavor. Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best taste. Diced tomatoes can also be used, but crushed tomatoes create a smoother sauce.
• 1 (15 ounce) can Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce adds a concentrated tomato flavor and further thickens the sauce. Use plain tomato sauce without added seasonings for the most versatile base.
• 1 (15 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes (undrained, optional for chunkier goulash): Diced tomatoes are optional but add a chunkier texture and extra tomato flavor to the goulash. If you prefer a smoother goulash, you can omit the diced tomatoes or use another can of crushed tomatoes instead.
• 1 cup Beef Broth (Low Sodium): Beef broth adds depth of savory flavor and moisture to the goulash. Low sodium broth is recommended to control the overall salt level. Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes, though beef broth provides the most authentic flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or other cooking oil): Olive oil is used for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onion and garlic, adding flavor and preventing sticking. Other cooking oils like vegetable oil or canola oil can be used as substitutes.

For Flavor Enhancements (Building Layers of Taste):

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of umami flavor, enhancing the savory notes and adding complexity to the goulash. For a gluten-free option, ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain soy sauce or malt vinegar.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Dried oregano is a classic herb in goulash, providing a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic flavor. Dried Italian seasoning or a combination of dried basil and thyme can be used as alternatives.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil: Dried basil adds a sweet, slightly peppery, and aromatic note that complements the tomato-based sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Kosher salt or sea salt are preferred for their clean taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and enhances the other flavors.
• Optional: 1 teaspoon Paprika (Sweet or Smoked): Paprika, either sweet or smoked, adds a subtle depth of flavor and color to the goulash. Smoked paprika will add a smoky note.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (for a touch of heat): Red pepper flakes add a mild warmth if you prefer a slightly spicy goulash.

For the Pasta (Hearty and Comforting):

• 1 lb Elbow Macaroni Pasta (or other small pasta shape): Elbow macaroni is the traditional pasta shape for American Goulash, providing a classic and comforting element. Other small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or rotini can also be used. Use regular macaroni or whole wheat macaroni for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

• Ground Beef: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for a leaner goulash. Brown ground turkey or chicken thoroughly and drain off any excess liquid before proceeding with the recipe. For a vegetarian or vegan goulash, consider using plant-based ground beef substitutes or lentils (see vegetarian section below).
• Tomato Products: Using a combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (optional) creates a balanced tomato flavor and texture. You can adjust the ratios based on your preference for a smoother or chunkier sauce. Tomato puree can be used in place of tomato sauce, but you may need to add a bit more broth to reach the desired consistency.
• Broth: Beef broth is traditional, but chicken or vegetable broth works well as substitutes, especially if using ground turkey or chicken or making a vegetarian version.
• Pasta Shape: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to experiment with other small pasta shapes. Gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free version.
• Vegetarian Goulash: To make American Goulash vegetarian or vegan, substitute ground beef with:
  • Lentils (Brown or Green): Cooked lentils add protein and a hearty texture. Add cooked lentils towards the end of the cooking process to heat through.
  • Plant-Based Ground Beef Substitute: Use a commercially available plant-based ground beef substitute, browned according to package instructions before adding to the goulash.
  • Mushrooms (Cremini or Portobello): Sautéed mushrooms add umami and a meaty texture. Add sautéed mushrooms along with the onions and garlic.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  • Ensure Worcestershire sauce is vegan or omit it (soy sauce or tamari can be used as a vegan substitute in small amounts).

By gathering these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re well-prepared to create a truly comforting and delicious American Goulash that will warm you from the inside out.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect American Goulash

Follow these detailed, step-by-step instructions to create your own hearty and flavorful American Goulash at home. We’ll guide you through each stage, from browning the beef to simmering the goulash to perfection.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and break it up with a spoon or spatula.
3. Brown Beef: Cook the ground beef, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial for developing rich, savory flavor in the goulash.
4. Drain Excess Grease (Optional): If using a higher fat blend of ground beef (e.g., 80/20), you may want to drain off any excess grease from the pot after browning the beef. Leaner ground beef (90/10 or leaner) will produce less grease.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Build Flavor

1. Add Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot with the browned ground beef.
2. Sauté Onion: Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is softened and translucent. Sautéing the onion releases its sweetness and aroma, adding depth to the goulash.
3. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot with the onion and beef.
4. Sauté Garlic: Cook the garlic, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it should be aromatic, not browned.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings

1. Add Tomato Products: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (if using) to the pot with the beef, onion, and garlic.
2. Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Add Dried Herbs and Spices: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, paprika (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Stir to Combine: Stir all the ingredients together well to combine and ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

Step 4: Simmer the Goulash

1. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the goulash mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the goulash simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and deepen, and the sauce to thicken slightly. Longer simmering times will result in a richer, more flavorful goulash.

Step 5: Cook the Macaroni Pasta

1. Cook Pasta According to Package Directions: While the goulash is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni pasta according to package directions in a separate pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Al dente pasta will hold its shape better in the goulash.
2. Drain Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well in a colander.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Goulash & Serve

1. Add Cooked Pasta to Goulash: Add the drained cooked macaroni pasta to the pot with the simmering goulash sauce.
2. Stir to Combine: Stir the pasta into the goulash sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated and heated through.
3. Simmer Briefly (Optional): Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce and the flavors to meld together further.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, oregano, or basil to your preference.
5. Serve Hot: Serve the American Goulash hot in bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings (see serving suggestions below) and enjoy!

Following these detailed instructions will guide you to create a perfectly balanced, hearty, and flavorful American Goulash that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting aroma and delicious taste of this classic dish!

Nutrition Facts: A Hearty and Satisfying Comfort Meal

American Goulash is a hearty and satisfying meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition facts per serving (based on a serving size of about 1.5-2 cups of goulash), keeping in mind that these values can vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands, pasta type, ground beef fat content, and portion sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 1.5-2 cups (assembled Goulash)

Approximate Calories per Serving: 400-600 calories (depending on ground beef fat content and serving size)

Macronutrients (Approximate – can vary):

• Protein: 25-35 grams
  • Good source of protein from ground beef, essential for muscle building, repair, and satiety.
• Fat: 15-25 grams
  • Fats come primarily from the ground beef and olive oil. The fat content will vary depending on the lean-to-fat ratio of the ground beef used (leaner beef will result in lower fat content).
• Carbohydrates: 50-70 grams
  • Carbohydrates primarily come from the macaroni pasta and tomatoes. These are complex carbohydrates from pasta and simple carbohydrates from tomatoes.
• Fiber: 4-6 grams
  • Moderate source of dietary fiber, primarily from whole wheat pasta (if used), tomatoes, and onions. Fiber is beneficial for digestive health and satiety.

Micronutrients (Significant Sources – Varies based on ingredients):

• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin A: Tomatoes are a good source of Vitamin A, important for vision, immune function, and cell growth.
  • Vitamin C: Tomatoes also provide Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
  • B Vitamins: Beef is a good source of various B vitamins, including B12, niacin, and riboflavin, important for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
• Minerals:
  • Iron: Beef is a good source of iron, crucial for oxygen transport and energy levels.
  • Potassium: Tomatoes and beef contribute potassium, important for blood pressure regulation and muscle function.
  • Zinc: Beef also provides zinc, important for immune function and wound healing.

Health Considerations of American Goulash:

• Hearty and Energy-Dense: American Goulash is a relatively calorie-dense meal due to the combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Portion control is important for those watching calorie intake.
• Good Source of Protein: Provides a significant amount of protein, which is beneficial for satiety and muscle health.
• Can be Adapted for Healthier Options:
  • Leaner Ground Beef or Turkey: Using leaner ground beef (90/10 or leaner) or ground turkey significantly reduces fat content.
  • Whole Wheat Pasta: Using whole wheat macaroni increases fiber content and provides more complex carbohydrates.
  • Increase Vegetables: Adding more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the goulash increases nutritional value and fiber content.
  • Control Sodium: Using low-sodium broth and controlling added salt helps manage sodium levels.
• Sodium Content: Be mindful of sodium content, especially if using canned tomatoes and broth. Choose low-sodium broth and control added salt.

Note: For more precise nutrition information, especially if you make modifications to the recipe, you can use online nutrition calculators or apps and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. This nutritional overview provides a general understanding of the nutritional profile of American Goulash, highlighting its hearty nature and potential for adaptation to healthier versions.

Preparation Time: Simplicity and Comfort in Under an Hour

One of the great things about American Goulash is its relatively straightforward and manageable preparation time. It’s a comforting meal that can be on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 45-55 minutes

Active Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Passive Simmering Time: Approximately 30 minutes (for goulash sauce, can be done simultaneously with pasta cooking)

Breakdown:

• Ground Beef Browning and Aromatics Sautéing: 15-20 minutes – Active time.
• Adding Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings: 5 minutes – Active time.
• Goulash Simmering Time: 30 minutes – Mostly passive simmering time, requires occasional stirring.
• Pasta Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes – Mostly passive cooking time, requires bringing water to boil and adding pasta.
• Combining Pasta and Goulash: 5 minutes – Active time.

Tips for Speeding Up Preparation:

• Pre-chop Onion and Mince Garlic: Chop the onion and mince the garlic in advance, or use pre-diced onions and minced garlic from the grocery store to save a few minutes of prep time.
• Efficient Workflow: While the goulash sauce is simmering, you can be cooking the macaroni pasta simultaneously to maximize efficiency.
• Use a Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Using a large pot or Dutch oven allows you to cook the entire goulash in one pot, minimizing dishes and streamlining the process.
• Simplify Toppings (Optional): While toppings are delicious, skipping elaborate toppings can save a few minutes if you are very short on time.

With its reasonable preparation time and mostly straightforward steps, American Goulash is a fantastic choice for a delicious, hearty, and relatively quick weeknight meal. It’s a comforting classic that fits easily into busy schedules.

How to Serve: Pairing and Presenting American Goulash

American Goulash is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of comforting and satisfying ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your goulash experience:

Classic Serving Styles:

• Serve Hot in Bowls: The most traditional way to serve American Goulash is hot in bowls. Ladle generous portions into bowls and let everyone dig in.
• Garnish with Cheese (Shredded Cheddar, Parmesan): A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or grated Parmesan cheese on top of each serving adds a creamy, cheesy element and enhances the savory flavor.
• Serve with a Dollop of Sour Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt adds a cooling tanginess that balances the richness of the goulash.
• Garnish with Fresh Parsley or Basil (Chopped): A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.

Side Dish Pairings (To Complete the Meal):

• Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious goulash sauce.
• Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing contrast to the richness of the goulash.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables (Green Beans, Broccoli): Steamed or roasted green vegetables like green beans or broccoli add a healthy and balanced element to the meal.
• Coleslaw or Potato Salad: For a more casual and potluck-style meal, serve with coleslaw or potato salad.
• Cornbread or Biscuits: Cornbread or biscuits are classic Southern comfort food sides that pair well with goulash.

Creative Serving Ideas:

• Goulash Stuffed Peppers: Use leftover goulash to stuff bell peppers. Top with cheese and bake until peppers are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Goulash Sloppy Joes: Spoon goulash onto hamburger buns for a fun and hearty twist on sloppy joes.
• Goulash Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with warm goulash for a loaded baked potato meal.
• Goulash Chili Cheese Fries: Use goulash as a topping for chili cheese fries for an indulgent game-day snack or meal.

Serving Occasions:

• Weeknight Family Dinners: Quick, easy, and family-friendly, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Casual Weekend Meals: Comforting and satisfying for relaxed weekend dinners.
• Potlucks and Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish for potlucks, casual gatherings, or game day parties.
• Cold Weather Meals: Hearty and warming, ideal for chilly fall and winter evenings.
• Leftovers for Lunch: Leftover goulash makes a delicious and convenient lunch the next day.

By considering these serving suggestions and garnishing ideas, you can present your American Goulash beautifully and ensure it’s enjoyed in its full comforting and flavorful glory. It’s a dish meant to be shared and savored!

Additional Tips: Elevating Your American Goulash to the Next Level

Want to take your American Goulash from delicious to truly exceptional? Here are five additional tips to help you master this classic comfort food and impress your family and friends:

1. Deglaze the Pot for Extra Flavor: After browning the ground beef and removing any excess grease, deglaze the pot before adding the onions. Deglazing involves pouring in a splash of beef broth (or even red wine) into the hot pot and scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom with a spoon or spatula. These browned bits, called fond, are packed with flavor and will add extra depth to your goulash sauce.
2. Sauté Vegetables for Deeper Flavor: While onions and garlic are essential, consider adding other sautéed vegetables to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your goulash. Diced bell peppers (green, red, or yellow), diced carrots, or sliced mushrooms can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic to add extra layers of flavor and texture.
3. Use High-Quality Tomato Products: Using good quality crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce makes a noticeable difference in the flavor of your goulash. Look for brands that use ripe, flavorful tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes (canned and crushed) are a premium option that can elevate the tomato flavor.
4. Simmer for Longer for Richer Flavor: While a 30-minute simmer is sufficient, simmering the goulash for longer – up to 1-2 hours – will allow the flavors to meld together and deepen even further, resulting in a richer, more complex sauce. Low and slow simmering is key for developing maximum flavor in stews and braises like goulash.
5. Add a Bay Leaf During Simmering (Remove Before Serving): Adding a bay leaf to the goulash during simmering infuses it with a subtle, aromatic depth. Bay leaf adds a background note of warmth and complexity that enhances the overall flavor profile. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving the goulash.

By incorporating these additional tips into your American Goulash preparation, you’ll refine your technique and consistently create a truly outstanding and flavorful dish that is sure to become a cherished family favorite for generations to come.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered About American Goulash

Here are some frequently asked questions about making American Goulash to help you confidently create this delicious and comforting classic.

Q1: Can I make American Goulash in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

A: Yes, American Goulash is easily adaptable for both slow cookers and Instant Pots.

• Slow Cooker: Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet on the stovetop as instructed in Step 1 and 2. Transfer the browned beef and sautéed vegetables to a slow cooker. Add all the remaining ingredients except the macaroni pasta. Stir to combine. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the macaroni pasta separately according to package directions. Drain the pasta and stir it into the slow cooker goulash. Cook for the final 30 minutes to heat through and allow the pasta to absorb some sauce.
• Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic in the Instant Pot as instructed in Step 1 and 2. Drain excess grease if needed. Add all the remaining ingredients except the macaroni pasta. Stir to combine. Secure the Instant Pot lid and cook on manual/pressure cook mode for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10-15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Stir in the uncooked macaroni pasta. Secure the lid again and cook on manual/pressure cook mode for another 3-5 minutes, or until pasta is cooked al dente (cooking time will depend on pasta type and desired doneness). Quick release pressure. Stir well and let stand for a few minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Q2: Can I freeze American Goulash?

A: Yes, American Goulash freezes exceptionally well, making it a great make-ahead meal. Let the goulash cool completely. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Freezing is a great way to have comforting goulash ready anytime.

Q3: My goulash is too watery. How do I thicken it?

A: If your goulash is too watery, you can thicken it using a few methods:

• Simmer Longer Uncovered: Simmer the goulash uncovered over low heat for a longer period, stirring occasionally, to allow excess liquid to evaporate and the sauce to reduce and thicken naturally.
• Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Gradually whisk the cornstarch slurry into the simmering goulash. Simmer for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
• Tomato Paste: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste to add a more concentrated tomato flavor and help thicken the sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes (Small Amount): For a creamy texture and thickening, stir in a small amount of mashed potatoes (about 1/2 cup to 1 cup) into the goulash during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering.

Q4: Can I add vegetables other than onion and garlic to American Goulash?

A: Yes, adding other vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of American Goulash. Good vegetable additions include:

• Bell Peppers (Diced): Add diced bell peppers (green, red, or yellow) along with the onions to sauté.
• Carrots (Diced): Add diced carrots along with the onions to sauté.
• Celery (Diced): Add diced celery along with the onions to sauté.
• Mushrooms (Sliced): Add sliced mushrooms to sauté with the onions and garlic.
• Zucchini or Yellow Squash (Diced): Add diced zucchini or yellow squash during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering, as they cook quickly.
• Green Beans (Cut into 1-inch pieces): Add green beans during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering.

Q5: What’s the difference between American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash?

A: While both dishes share the name “Goulash,” American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash are quite different:

• Hungarian Goulash (Gulyás): Traditional Hungarian Goulash is a soup or stew made with chunks of beef (typically chuck or shank), onions, paprika (especially Hungarian paprika, which is key), caraway seeds, and often potatoes and carrots. It is characterized by its rich, paprika-forward flavor and is not typically tomato-based or made with pasta. It’s a slow-cooked stew, often served as a first course or main course.
• American Goulash (aka “Chili Mac” or “Johnny Marzetti”): American Goulash, in contrast, is a casserole-like dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni pasta, tomatoes (crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce), onions, and often bell peppers. It’s a tomato-based, pasta-heavy dish that is quicker to prepare and has a milder, more kid-friendly flavor profile. It’s considered a distinctly American comfort food, not an authentic Hungarian dish.

American Goulash is essentially an Americanized, simplified, and pasta-based version of the heartier, meat-centric Hungarian Goulash. They are two separate dishes with different origins, ingredients, and flavor profiles.

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