If you’re in search of a hearty, comforting meal that comes together with minimal fuss, look no further than Classic One-Pot American Goulash! This dish is the epitome of family-friendly comfort food, featuring tender pasta bathed in a rich tomato sauce packed with beef and a medley of spices. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Fun fact: did you know that American goulash has no relation to traditional Hungarian goulash? It’s a uniquely American invention, combining quick cooking techniques with ingredients that are often on hand in your pantry.
What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity. It comes together in one pot, meaning less time spent on cleanup and more time spent enjoying the meal with your loved ones. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it a great option for families looking to eat well without breaking the bank. If you’ve tried our comforting Slow Cooker Chili, you’ll find the same delicious flavors in this one-pot wonder! Get ready to impress your family with this delightful recipe they’re sure to love!
What is Classic One-Pot American Goulash?
Ah, Classic One-Pot American Goulash! The name might have you scratching your head, wondering why it’s labeled as “goulash” when it looks nothing like what you might find in Hungary. It’s kind of like naming your cat “Wolf”—totally confusing, but oddly charming. This delicious one-pot meal gives you the cozy vibes of home-cooked goodness, yet nobody really knows how it earned its name. Maybe it’s the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish certainly speaks volumes! Dive in and discover this culinary delight that’s sure to roar competition in the realm of easy weeknight dinners. Now don your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Classic One-Pot American Goulash
Classic One-Pot American Goulash is a must-try for several reasons. First, the highlight of this dish is the flavor; it marries ground beef, tomatoes, and spices into an irresistible sauce that hugs the pasta perfectly. Every bite is a burst of comforting tastes that transport you back to your childhood kitchen. Secondly, it’s cost-effective! With minimal ingredients and often items you already have at home, this dish can feed the whole family without leaving your wallet gasping for air.
Lastly, let’s talk about the toppings! While the base is delicious on its own, a sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream can elevate it to the next level—think of it like dress shoes for your outfit, adding that extra flair! If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like our hearty Chicken and Rice Casserole. Ready to give Classic One-Pot American Goulash a try? Let’s get to it!
How to Make Classic One-Pot American Goulash
Quick Overview
What makes Classic One-Pot American Goulash so appealing is its ease and satisfaction—it’s a truly straightforward meal that cooks all in one pot. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of around 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in less than 30 minutes! Perfect for busy families who still want a flavorful and fulfilling meal.
Key Ingredients for Classic One-Pot American Goulash
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese (optional, for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.
- Incorporate Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni and Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Season & Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with grated cheese before serving if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!
What to Serve Classic One-Pot American Goulash With
Classic One-Pot American Goulash pairs beautifully with a side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or garlic bread for that perfect carb complement! You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a healthful touch, or a colorful fruit salad for a refreshing dessert to round out the meal. If you’re in the mood for something warm, a bowl of classic clam chowder as a starter would be a delightful addition to the table.
Top Tips for Perfecting Classic One-Pot American Goulash
To achieve the greatest success with this delicious dish, consider these handy tips:
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also add additional vegetables such as carrots or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.
- Timing Adjustments: If you love your pasta a bit firmer, you can reduce the simmer time by 2-3 minutes. This ensures a nice al dente texture that’ll keep everyone reaching for seconds.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Be sure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Also, if using gluten-free pasta, adjust cooking times as these often require less cooking than regular pasta.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftover Classic One-Pot American Goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. The flavors will meld beautifully upon reheating!
Final Words
Classic One-Pot American Goulash is more than just a dish; it’s a warming embrace on a plate! With its easy preparation, budget-friendly ingredients, and flavorful profile, it’s a meal that brings families together. So why not gather your loved ones, get cooking, and create some delicious memories at the dinner table? Try this recipe today, and let the joy of cooking fill your home!
Classic One-Pot American Goulash
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Substitutable with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced Can add additional vegetables such as carrots or zucchini.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth Add more if the dish seems dry.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Adjust cooking times for gluten-free pasta.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated cheese (optional, for topping) Use to enhance flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.
- Add the elbow macaroni and Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle with grated cheese before serving if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!
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