American Goulash Recipe

American Goulash is a classic comfort dish that blends tender ground beef, savory tomatoes, hearty pasta, and a medley of spices into a one-pot wonder. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Read on to learn everything you need to know about making the perfect American Goulash, including variations, cooking tips, and how to avoid common mistakes.

What is American Goulash?

American Goulash, also known as "slumgullion" in some regions, is a hearty, budget-friendly meal that's quick to prepare and loaded with flavor. Unlike Hungarian Goulash, which uses stew meat and is more of a soup, American Goulash is a ground beef-based dish with elbow macaroni and a rich tomato sauce. It's a one-pot meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or a filling weekend dinner. Plus, it stores and reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients List for American Goulash

To make a delicious pot of American Goulash, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Ground beef: About 1-1.5 pounds of lean ground beef is ideal. This gives the dish a rich, meaty flavor without being overly greasy.
• Elbow macaroni: 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni will absorb the flavors and create that classic texture we all love.
• Onions: 1 large onion, finely chopped, adds a sweet and savory base to the dish.
• Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced, provides a flavorful kick.
• Green bell pepper: 1 green bell pepper, diced, offers a mild sweetness and slight crunch.
• Tomato sauce: 2 cans (15 ounces each) of tomato sauce give the dish its hearty, rich flavor.
• Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained, adds texture and acidity.
• Beef broth: 1 cup of beef broth enhances the meatiness of the dish and helps to cook the pasta right in the pot.
• Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning adds an herbal touch, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon of paprika gives the dish a mild warmth.
• Bay leaves: 2 bay leaves infuse a subtle aromatic depth into the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Adjust according to taste.
• Cheddar cheese (optional): 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for topping, optional but highly recommended for cheesy goodness.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about American Goulash is how flexible it is. You can easily tweak the recipe based on your dietary needs, preferences, or what's available in your pantry.

• Ground meat alternatives: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground "meat" for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Pasta choices: While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or penne if you prefer a different texture.
• Tomato base alternatives: If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or even marinara sauce as a substitute. Just be mindful of the seasoning, as some sauces may already be seasoned.
• Extra vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies like carrots, zucchini, or corn to make it heartier and more nutritious. Spinach or kale added at the end of cooking also works well.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy paprika instead of the regular kind.
• Cheese topping: While cheddar cheese is a popular option, you could also try mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making American Goulash is a breeze, and the entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here's a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Brown the ground beef: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Add seasonings and liquids: Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and toss in the bay leaves. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Cook the pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it's submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked to al dente.
6. Check for seasoning: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
7. Add cheese (optional): If you're using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top of the goulash and allow it to melt. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining excess fat: If your ground beef has a high-fat content, make sure to drain the grease before adding the vegetables. Otherwise, your goulash may end up too greasy.
• Overcooking the pasta: Since the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, it's essential to keep an eye on it. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and may soak up too much liquid, leaving your goulash dry.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed to ensure your dish is flavorful.
• Forgetting to remove the bay leaves: Bay leaves can add a fantastic depth of flavor, but they're not edible. Be sure to fish them out before serving.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving American Goulash, simplicity is key. However, there are a few tips to elevate the dish and make it more visually appealing and satisfying.

• Family-style serving: American Goulash is the ultimate family-style dish. Serve it straight from the pot at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Garnish for a pop of color: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top will brighten up the dish and add a bit of fresh flavor.
• Add a side: Pair the goulash with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread to round out the meal. Cornbread or biscuits also make a great accompaniment.
• Extra cheese: For those who love cheese, place extra shredded cheddar on the table for individual servings, allowing each person to add as much as they like.

How to Serve American Goulash

American Goulash is best served hot and fresh. It’s a dish that invites casual, cozy dining, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. You can serve it with:

• Garlic bread: A slice of warm garlic bread on the side perfectly complements the rich tomato sauce.
• Salad: A light, crisp salad can balance the heartiness of the goulash.
• Pickles or coleslaw: Some people enjoy the tangy crunch of pickles or coleslaw as a side to contrast the rich, savory flavors.

Presentation Ideas for American Goulash

While American Goulash is more of a rustic dish, you can still get creative with the presentation:

• Individual bowls: Serve the goulash in rustic bowls with a small mound of shredded cheese and a sprig of parsley on top.
• Cast iron skillet: Present the dish in a cast iron skillet for a country-style look. It's functional and adds to the homey feel of the meal.
• Garnish with herbs: Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually more appealing.
• Cheese drizzle: Add a final touch by drizzling some melted cheese on top or allowing guests to sprinkle extra cheese from the table.

American Goulash Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: American Goulash tastes even better the next day. Make a big batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze it: This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm up on the stovetop.
• Add more broth: If you find your goulash too thick, add more beef broth to achieve the desired consistency. The pasta tends to absorb the liquid as it sits, so keep an eye on it when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make American Goulash in a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the pasta during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your beef broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Q: Can I add more vegetables? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even spinach to pack in more nutrients.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes, American Goulash stores well in the fridge or freezer. Just be sure to add a little extra liquid when reheating, as the pasta may absorb some of the sauce.

Conclusion

American Goulash is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. With its flexible ingredients, you can customize the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick with the classic version or experiment with new variations, this one-pot meal is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family!

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