American goulash

🍝 American Goulash

American goulash is a simple, comforting one-pot pasta dish popular in the United States. It’s different from the traditional Hungarian goulash (which is more like a stew). American goulash is usually made with ground beef, macaroni, tomatoes, and spices.

Key Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Elbow macaroni
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
• Beef broth or water
• Italian seasoning or paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: bell peppers, cheddar cheese

Basic Recipe (Easy One-Pot Version)

1. Cook the beef

• In a large pot, cook 1 lb (450 g) ground beef with 1 chopped onion until browned.
• Add 2–3 cloves minced garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Add liquids and seasoning

• Stir in:
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste

3. Add pasta

• Add 1½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked).
• Stir, cover, and simmer 12–15 minutes until pasta is tender.

4. Finish

• Optional: stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy version.

What It Tastes Like

• Similar to spaghetti meat sauce + macaroni, but thicker and cooked in one pot.
• Savory, tomato-rich, and very filling.

Variations

• Cheesy goulash – add cheddar or mozzarella.
• Vegetable goulash – add corn, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Spicy version – add chili flakes or hot sauce.

If you want, I can also show you:

• Authentic Hungarian goulash recipe 🇭🇺
• Old-school American school cafeteria goulash
• One-pot 20-minute goulash recipe ⏱️.