One Pan American Goulash

American Goulash is an easy and delicious dinner recipe that the whole family enjoys! This one-pan meal brings comfort food to the table with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. With its rich blend of seasonings and hearty ingredients, One Pan American Goulash is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
• One-Pan Convenience: This recipe minimizes cleanup by cooking everything in one pan—perfect for busy cooks!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of beef, pasta, and cheese makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish with whatever vegetables or seasonings you have on hand.
• Comforting and Filling: It’s hearty enough to keep everyone satisfied while still being light enough for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing One Pan American Goulash a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: The ideal surface for browning meat and simmering your goulash all in one place.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and precise cutting, making prep work faster.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface.

Ingredients

American Goulash is an easy and delicious dinner recipe the whole family enjoys!

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 diced onion
• 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper
• 1 tsp each of onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning
• 1 TBSP Worcestershire sauce
• 1 TBSP minced garlic

For the Base

• (2) 8 oz cans of tomato sauce
• 15 oz can of diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/2 cups of beef broth

For the Pasta

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni

For Topping

• shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pan American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the diced onion. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook until the meat is browned.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once the meat is browned, drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Then add both cans of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni.

Step 3: Simmer Together

Stir well to combine all ingredients. Place the two bay leaves on top. Allow everything to come to a gentle bubble before reducing the heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid.

Step 4: Cook Until Done

Cook for about 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced. Be sure to remove bay leaves once cooked through. Stir well before serving.

Step 5: Serve with Cheese

Dish out servings onto plates or bowls, then top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Dig into your warm bowl of One Pan American Goulash! Let me know if you try it out!

How to Serve One Pan American Goulash

Serving One Pan American Goulash can be a fun and creative experience. It’s a dish that’s hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Use Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley – Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top of the goulash for a burst of color and flavor.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens – Pair the goulash with a refreshing mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance its richness.

Offer Bread Options

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the sauce, adding a delightful crunch.

Top with Sour Cream

• Creamy Topping – A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and tang, elevating the flavors of the goulash.

Serve in Bowls

• Individual Portions – Consider serving in individual bowls for a cozy presentation that makes each guest feel special.

Pair with Cheese Crackers

• Crunchy Snack – Cheese-flavored crackers are great for adding an extra layer of texture alongside the goulash.

How to Perfect One Pan American Goulash

To make your One Pan American Goulash even more delicious, here are some helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning – Don’t hesitate to adjust spices; adding more paprika or Italian seasoning can enhance depth.
• Quality Meat – Use lean ground beef for less grease and better flavor. It will keep your dish lighter.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Ensure your elbow macaroni is slightly undercooked; it will absorb flavors as it sits.
• Rest Before Serving – Allow goulash to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Veggies – Adding bell peppers, corn, or peas can enrich texture and nutrition in your dish.
• Store Properly – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan American Goulash

Pairing side dishes with your One Pan American Goulash can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks infused with garlic flavor complement the savory goulash perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tang that balances the richness of the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender bring additional flavor and nutrients to your meal.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is a fun side that pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, providing a nice contrast to the warm goulash.
6. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make an indulgent addition, soaking up any remaining sauce beautifully.
7. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a great base for topping with leftover goulash if desired.
8. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a refreshing sweetness that rounds out the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan American Goulash, it’s easy to overlook some essential steps. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.

• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Failing to brown the ground beef can lead to a bland flavor. Ensure that the meat is cooked until browned for a richer taste.
• Skipping Seasoning: Some cooks forget to season the meat and vegetables adequately. Always season at every stage for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the macaroni too long will make it mushy. Monitor the cooking time closely so it remains al dente.
• Ignoring the Bay Leaves: Bay leaves add subtle flavor but are often forgotten. Remember to add them during cooking and remove before serving.
• Not Covering While Cooking: Leaving the pan uncovered can lead to excessive evaporation. Always cover your skillet once it starts bubbling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow goulash to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing One Pan American Goulash

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy meal prep.

Reheating One Pan American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan American Goulash?

One Pan American Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey if you prefer leaner options without compromising flavor.

How can I customize One Pan American Goulash?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Is One Pan American Goulash suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.

Conclusion

One Pan American Goulash is not only a delicious choice but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and spices!

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