American Goulash

American Goulash is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With its simple ingredients like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and macaroni, it’s a meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The rich flavors and hearty texture make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total cook time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those hectic evenings.
• One-Pot Meal: No need for multiple pots and pans; everything cooks together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Kid-Friendly Flavor: The combination of savory meat, tangy tomatoes, and tender pasta is sure to please picky eaters.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the seasonings or add vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Comforting and Filling: This American Goulash is not only delicious but also satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your American Goulash experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large saucepan
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large saucepan: Essential for browning the meat and simmering all ingredients together without splatter.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon will help mix ingredients thoroughly and prevent sticking as you cook.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your goulash.

Ingredients

This American Goulash is pure comfort food made all in one pot. Made with simple ingredients: ground beef, canned tomatoes, and macaroni.

For the Meat Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

For the Sauce

• 15 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta, cooked (measured before cooking)

For Serving

• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown and crumble 1 pound of ground beef along with 1 small diced onion and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish light.

Step 2: Add the Sauces

Stir in the 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes (with juices) along with an 8-ounce can of tomato sauce. These will form the rich base for your goulash.

Step 3: Season It Up

Season your mixture with 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all flavors. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer Down

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate the Pasta

Add in your cooked elbow macaroni pasta (1 cup) into the goulash mixture. Stir thoroughly and allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes so everything heats through.

Step 6: Serve It Hot

Serve your American Goulash hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy this delicious comfort food!

How to Serve American Goulash

American Goulash is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your American Goulash.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm slices of garlic bread for a flavorful accompaniment. The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with the goulash.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness to your meal. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette for extra zing.

Top with Cheese

• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or shredded mozzarella on top of the goulash before serving for an extra creamy texture and delicious flavor.

Serve with Cornbread

• Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread is a classic pairing for goulash. Its fluffy texture complements the hearty sauce perfectly.

Include Pickles

• Pickles: A side of pickles provides a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the goulash. Choose dill or bread-and-butter pickles based on your preference.

Offer Sour Cream

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and balances out the spices in the dish wonderfully.

How to Perfect American Goulash

To ensure your American Goulash turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian herbs according to your taste preferences for maximum flavor.
• Bold pasta cooking: Cook the elbow macaroni just until al dente before adding it to the sauce. This prevents it from becoming mushy while simmering.
• Bold simmering time: Allowing the goulash to simmer longer can enhance its flavors. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Bold ingredient quality: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for richer flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent choice if available!
• Bold leftovers storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days and often taste even better the next day.
• Bold side options: Experiment with different sides that complement goulash well! Each side can bring new flavors that elevate this classic dish.

Best Side Dishes for American Goulash

Serving American Goulash alongside complementary side dishes can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of goulash.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers offer vibrant colors and nutrients.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide another comforting element that pairs well with goulash’s flavors.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add brightness and a healthy touch to your plate.
5. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad brings creaminess that complements the hearty goulash perfectly.
6. Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits can be used for dipping into the sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
7. Fried Zucchini: Crispy fried zucchini rounds add a delightful crunch and mild flavor that pairs well with beef dishes.
8. Cucumber Salad: A fresh cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides acidity that cuts through the richness of goulash nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making American Goulash, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are a few common mistakes to watch for.

• Overcooking the Beef: If you cook the beef for too long, it can become tough. Aim to brown it until it’s no longer pink, then drain excess grease promptly.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning your dish can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a well-rounded dish.
• Using Uncooked Pasta: Adding uncooked pasta directly into the sauce can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to cook the macaroni before adding it to the pot.
• Neglecting Simmer Time: Rushing through the simmering process can result in a less flavorful goulash. Allow at least 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.
• Not Using Quality Ingredients: Low-quality canned tomatoes or spices can affect taste. Invest in good brands for better flavor results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• American Goulash can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing American Goulash

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

Reheating American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place goulash in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Goulash?

American Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal made with ground beef, pasta, and tomato-based sauce. It’s simple and satisfying!

Can I customize my American Goulash?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition or swap out beef for chicken or turkey if desired.

How do I make my American Goulash spicy?

To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the sauce while cooking.

How does this recipe differ from traditional goulash?

Traditional goulash often includes paprika and is more stew-like. This American version is quicker and features pasta as a main ingredient.

Conclusion

This American Goulash recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Try it today and enjoy a hearty meal that brings comfort to your table!

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