American Goulash is one of those heartwarming dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you just want to whip up something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Did you know that this one-pot wonder hails from the United States, borrowing its name from traditional Hungarian goulash? This delightful dish is a family favorite not just for its comforting taste but also for its simplicity and quick preparation time, making it a fantastic option for both busy families and novice cooks alike!
If you’re already going wild for our classic spaghetti and meatballs, you’re in for a treat! American Goulash is a twist that takes you on a culinary adventure while still holding onto the familiar flavors you love. So, grab your apron and get ready to explore a dish that’s not only delicious but also brings everyone around the table!
What is American Goulash?
So, what’s the deal with the name “American Goulash”? It’s one of those fun mysteries in the cooking world! This dish is not an authentic goulash from Hungary but rather an Americanized version that combines simple ingredients into a wholesome meal. It makes you think, “Who decided to toss everything into one pot and call it goulash?” Perhaps they were onto something brilliant! It’s like the universal language of comfort food—quick, simple, and oh-so-satisfying. After all, they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and with American Goulash, you might just win over the whole family. Now that you’re intrigued, why not give this dish a whirl?
Why You’ll Love This American Goulash
There are plenty of reasons why American Goulash should make its way into your dinner rotation! First, the main highlight of this dish is its incredible flavor. Picture tender pasta enveloped in a rich, meaty sauce bursting with tomatoes and spices. Secondly, cooking American Goulash at home will save you money. Instead of grabbing take-out, imagine serving a hearty meal for a fraction of the cost! Lastly, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can mix in your favorite veggies or even top it with shredded cheese for an extra touch. If you love casseroles, you might also enjoy our baked ziti—they both offer that comforting satisfaction we all crave. So why not gather your ingredients and delight in making this family-friendly meal?
How to Make American Goulash
Quick Overview
Making American Goulash is both easy and delightful! This one-pot dish is everything you need when craving something hearty. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table in around 30 minutes, balancing flavors with minimal fuss. The result is a dish that’s rich in taste and texture without overwhelming complexity.
Key Ingredients for American Goulash
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color will do!)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Veggies: Toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until they start to soften, approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in the Pasta and Sauce: Add the elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth (or water). Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Dish up hot, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
What to Serve American Goulash With
To enhance your American Goulash experience, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad for some crunch, garlic bread for extra carbs, or even a side of roasted vegetables to round out the meal. A glass of iced tea or lemonade will balance the flavors perfectly. With such a satisfying base, you won’t have to stress too much about what to serve alongside it!
Top Tips for Perfecting American Goulash
To elevate your American Goulash game, here are some useful tips! First, feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For those who love a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. Be mindful not to overcook the pasta—aim for al dente, as it will continue to soften while simmering. If you have any leftovers, mix in some extra cheese for a creamy, cheesy delight!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with how delicious this dish is!), store your American Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, covering it with a paper towel to prevent splatters. If you want to freeze portions for later, make sure to let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers and it can last for about 2-3 months.
Now that you know how to make this comforting meal, why not give it a try? American Goulash could easily become your new family favorite! Get cooking, and enjoy every spoonful!
American Goulash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey) Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced Any color will do.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Substitute with another pasta shape if desired.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) Include the juice.
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Adjust to taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Shredded cheese for topping Optional.
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until they start to soften, approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth (or water). Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Dish up hot, topping with shredded cheese if desired.
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