Embrace the comforting warmth of a truly satisfying meal that comes together with incredible ease. This classic American goulash recipe is your ticket to a cozy, flavorful dinner that feels homemade without all the fuss. Originating from Hungarian goulash but evolving into a distinct dish, the evolution of American goulash is typically a hearty pasta and meat stew. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family gathering, its simplicity and hearty appeal make it an instant favorite. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, no-stress experience.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Goulash Recipe
This easy goulash recipe is a testament to how satisfying home cooking can be, even on your busiest days. You will adore this dish for its straightforward approach and delicious outcome.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pot, minimizing cleanup and making dinner a breeze.
- Quick Preparation: Enjoy a full meal on the table in under 30 minutes, ideal for hectic evenings.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with common pantry staples, it’s an economical choice that feeds a crowd.
- Kid-Approved: The mild, savory flavors and familiar pasta shape make this a hit with children.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s a warm, hearty, and nostalgic dish that brings joy with every spoonful.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your next favorite weeknight meal. This straightforward goulash recipe relies on common pantry items for maximum convenience and flavor. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich, savory depth of this classic dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 lbs. ground beef, lean
- 3 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
- 2 15 oz cans petite diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 tsp seasoned salt
- 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 cups macaroni noodles, uncooked
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adapt this goulash to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to make simple swaps to personalize your dish.
- Onion: Either white or yellow onions work perfectly here, adding a sweet aromatic base.
- Bell Pepper: A green bell pepper provides classic flavor, but feel free to use red, yellow, or orange for a sweeter touch.
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to minimize excess fat, or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version. For those prioritizing health, the American Heart Association has certified extra lean ground beef as a heart-healthy food option: health benefits of extra lean ground beef.
- Pasta: Dry elbow macaroni is traditional, but small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or rotini are also excellent choices.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a tangy kick, while mild cheddar creates a more subtle, creamy finish.
Equipment
Making this hearty goulash recipe doesn’t require a lot of specialized tools. With just a few basic kitchen items, you’ll be ready to cook.
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for one-pot cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and browning ingredients.
- Cheese grater: If using a block of cheddar cheese.
How To Make Goulash Recipe
Bringing this comforting goulash recipe to life is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Each stage builds on the last to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, letting them soften slightly for a few minutes. Next, add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Carefully drain any excess fat from the pot, then return it to the stovetop. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Step 2: Simmer the Goulash
Now it’s time to build the rich sauce for your goulash recipe. Pour in the tomato sauce and the petite diced tomatoes, stirring to combine them with the beef and vegetables. Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, which deepens the savory notes. Stir in the seasoned salt and Italian seasoning, then tuck the bay leaves into the mixture. Finally, add the uncooked macaroni noodles, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Bring the entire mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a light simmer. Cover the pot and stir occasionally, allowing the pasta to cook until it is tender, which usually takes about 20 minutes.
Step 3: Finish and Serve
Once the macaroni is cooked to your liking and the sauce has thickened, carefully remove and discard the bay leaves. This easy goulash recipe is almost ready to enjoy. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and becomes creamy, distributing throughout the dish. The cheese adds a wonderful richness and binds the ingredients beautifully. Serve your comforting American goulash immediately while it’s warm and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Goulash Recipe
Achieving the perfect goulash is easy with these simple tips. A few small adjustments can make a big difference in the final taste and texture of your dish.
- Use a large pot: A spacious pot or Dutch oven ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding, allowing the ingredients to simmer beautifully.
- Adjust liquid: For a thicker goulash, use less broth; for a more soup-like consistency, you can add a little extra.
- Add extra vegetables: Boost nutrition and flavor by stirring in frozen corn, peas, or diced carrots during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Creamy finish: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt just before serving for an extra layer of creaminess and tang.
Troubleshooting Common Goulash Mistakes
Even the simplest goulash recipe can encounter minor hiccups. Here’s how to fix common issues and ensure a flawless meal.
- Mushy pasta: The key is to avoid overcooking. Start checking the pasta for doneness a few minutes before the estimated cook time.
- Too watery: If your goulash is too thin, drain some liquid from the diced tomatoes before adding them, or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the sauce.
- Bland flavor: Taste and adjust seasonings as you go. A good quality beef broth makes a big difference, and a pinch more seasoned salt or Italian seasoning can perk it right up.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This versatile goulash recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and leftovers. Knowing how to serve, store, and vary your dish helps maximize its enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this hearty goulash hot, straight from the pot, with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese.
- Pair your comforting goulash with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch.
- Crusty bread or garlic bread is ideal for soaking up every last bit of the rich, savory sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Store any leftover goulash in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick.
- Alternatively, microwave individual servings in 1-minute intervals, stirring until heated through.
Goulash Variations
Explore these simple twists to customize your easy goulash recipe:
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in frozen corn, peas, or fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
- Pasta Swap: Experiment with other small, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, ditalini, or even small shell pasta for a different texture.
- Flavor Profile: Introduce a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cumin for an extra layer of smoky, earthy flavor in your savory goulash dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this comforting goulash recipe. These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 388 kcal |
| Sugar Content | 2 g |
| Sodium Content | 918 mg |
| Fat Content | 24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrate | 20 g |
| Fiber Content | 2 g |
| Protein Content | 22 g |
| Cholesterol | 76 mg |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Find quick answers to common questions about preparing this delicious goulash. These insights will help you master this comforting dish.
- Can I make goulash ahead of time? Absolutely! This hearty goulash recipe often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
- How do I thicken goulash if it’s too thin? Simmer your goulash uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp cold water) for a quicker fix.
- What are the best pasta types for goulash? Small, sturdy shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or small shells work best as they hold up well during simmering and absorb the sauce beautifully in this American goulash.
- Can I freeze goulash? Yes, you can freeze cooked goulash without the cheese. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, stirring in fresh cheese before serving.
Conclusion
There you have it: a straightforward and incredibly delicious easy goulash recipe that promises to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This one-pan wonder proves that truly satisfying home cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. We encourage you to try this American classic and make it your own. Share your culinary creations with us, or leave a comment below with your favorite serving suggestions for this delightful dish!
Easy Goulash Recipe: A Quick and Hearty One-Pan Meal
Kitchen Equipment
- Large Pot
Recipe Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 lbs. ground beef lean
- 3 tsp garlic minced
- 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce
- 2 15 oz cans petite diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 2 tsp seasoned salt
- 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 cups macaroni noodles uncooked
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Add olive oil to a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook the onion, bell pepper, and ground beef until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then return the pot to the stovetop and stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and uncooked macaroni noodles. Stir to combine, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a light boil and stir occasionally until the pasta is tender, approximately 20 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Just before serving, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and enjoy.
