A Cozy Classic Full of Comfort and Flavor

This American Goulash is the ultimate one-pot comfort food—hearty ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with garlic, onions, and warm spices. Simple, satisfying, and deeply nostalgic, this dish has been a staple in American kitchens for generations.

Whether you're feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner is affordable, easy to make, and sure to bring everyone back for seconds.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

  • One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot—fewer dishes, more flavor.

  • Classic and Familiar: Traditional American goulash is a tried-and-true family favorite.

  • Perfectly Balanced Sauce: Tomato, garlic, onion, and spices create a bold, savory base.

  • Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and ground beef for a satisfying, affordable meal.

  • Feeds a Crowd: Easily doubles or triples for large gatherings or leftovers.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 yellow onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained

  • 3 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 bay leaf (optional, for depth)

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy version)

  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for a little heat)

  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.

  • Drain excess grease, if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

  • Add diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.

  • Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

  • Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.

  • Mix well and let it simmer for 5–10 minutes to build flavor.

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta

  • Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

  • Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, reduce heat to medium-low, and cover.

  • Simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.

💡 Tip: If it gets too thick, stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

  • Remove the bay leaf.

  • (Optional) Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

🔄 Variations to Try

  • Cheesy Goulash: Mix in your favorite shredded cheese—cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.

  • Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.

  • Turkey or Sausage Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a flavorful twist.

  • Low-Carb Option: Swap macaroni for zucchini noodles or riced cauliflower.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve With:

  • Warm crusty bread or garlic toast

  • A crisp green salad

  • Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli

Top With:

  • A dollop of sour cream

  • Shredded cheese

  • Fresh chopped herbs

🧊 Make Ahead + Storage Tips

  • Make Ahead: Great for meal prep—flavors deepen after sitting overnight.

  • Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

  • Freeze: Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

  • Reheat: Warm gently in a pot or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the same as Hungarian goulash?
No—Hungarian goulash is a stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and often potatoes. American goulash is a quick-cooking pasta dish using ground meat and tomato-based sauce.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni and confirm all sauces are gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a large enough pot and stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

What’s the best pasta for this?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but any small pasta (like shells or rotini) works.

🍲 Final Thoughts

American Goulash is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out—easy to make, deeply satisfying, and filled with nostalgic flavor. It’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again, whether you're feeding your family on a busy night or craving a bowl of something familiar and hearty.