American Goulash

A warm pot of American goulash bubbling on the stove is pure comfort. It evokes cozy memories of family meals and gatherings, where laughter fills the air and the aroma teases your appetite. This dish is perfect for home cooks looking to serve something hearty and satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it both inviting and delightful.

This recipe boasts a simple yet harmonious blend of ingredients you likely already have on hand. The combination of 1 pound of ground beef, a chopped onion, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and a diced bell pepper creates a flavor-packed base. The addition of a 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes and 2 cups of beef broth lends a comforting depth, while 2 cups of elbow macaroni add a fulfilling heartiness. Seasoning it with 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper brings everything together beautifully. Topping it off with some grated cheese (if desired) adds a delightful creaminess to each serving.

Making this goulash is truly effortless, taking only a few simple steps. You start by browning the ground beef in a large pot. Next, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until they are tender. Then, add the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, along with Italian seasoning and seasonings, bringing it all to a gentle boil. When it’s bubbling nicely, stir in the elbow macaroni, covering the pot to simmer until the pasta is perfectly tender. Finally, serve it hot, garnished with cheese if you’d like!

This dish is especially great for chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling. It’s equally fantastic for potlucks, where family and friends gather, making it an excellent choice to feed a crowd. You’ll find your loved ones coming back for seconds, delighting in the flavors of this classic comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This American Goulash

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Simple Ingredients: The goulash uses pantry staples that are easy to find and affordable.
• Rich Comfort Food: It’s hearty and satisfying, making it ideal for chilly weather or when you need a pick-me-up.
• Versatile: You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and friendly pasta, it appeals to everyone—from kids to seniors.

Ground Beef Tips

When choosing ground beef for your goulash, select a lean variety, ideally around 80/20 or 85/15 meat-to-fat ratio. This ensures a good flavor while keeping excess grease to a minimum. Fresh ground beef should be bright red in color with firm fat. If possible, ask your butcher for recommendations on the best cuts for browning. For convenience, you can also choose pre-packaged ground beef, but check the expiry date to ensure freshness.

Options for Substitutions

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use quinoa or whole wheat pasta to make it healthier.
• Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes for more texture.
• Swap the bell pepper for zucchini or mushrooms to change the flavor profile.
• Try fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of Italian seasoning for a different taste.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common mistake when making goulash is overcooking the pasta. Adding elbow macaroni to the pot when it’s boiling can lead to mushy pasta if left too long. Keep a close eye on the cooking time after adding the pasta; it should only take about 15-20 minutes to reach the desired tenderness.

Another pitfall is forgetting to drain excess fat after browning the beef. If you skip this step, your goulash may become greasy, overshadowing the other flavors. Drain the fat carefully to maintain the dish’s taste.

Finally, seasoning is crucial. If you’re not careful, you might end up with a bland dish. Taste your goulash before serving, and don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning as necessary. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors remarkably.

What to Serve With American Goulash?

This American goulash pairs wonderfully with a side salad, offering a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread can also be a delicious addition, perfect for sopping up the tasty sauce. If you prefer something heartier, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans bring both color and nutrition to the table.

Storage Instructions

Store: Leftover goulash can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Freeze: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze goulash for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheat: To reheat, place it in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in short intervals, stirring after each, until evenly heated.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: About 6

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 1,200 – 1,400
Protein: 70 – 80 grams
Fat: 40 – 50 grams
Carbohydrates: 150 – 180 grams

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot, heat over medium heat until hot. Add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep your goulash from being greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 3-5 minutes. This step builds a beautiful flavor base for your dish.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Incorporate the Elbow Macaroni

Once boiling, stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Check occasionally to stir and prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Once the macaroni is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topping with grated cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!

In summary, American goulash is a delightful dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can serve up this comfort food in no time. We hope you give this recipe a try and maybe even share your experiences or variations with us. Feel free to explore more recipes on our blog that celebrate home cooking, just like this hearty goulash.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make goulash ahead of time?

Yes, you can make goulash ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Is American goulash healthy?

American goulash can be made healthier by using lean ground beef or substituting with turkey. Additionally, you can switch the elbow macaroni for whole wheat pasta or even use vegetables instead.

How do I thicken my goulash?

If you find your goulash too thin, you can thicken it by adding a little cornstarch mixed with water or by letting it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.

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