When the chill of evening sets in and the day’s hustle has worn you down, there’s nothing quite like sinking your spoon into a steaming bowl of Hearty American Goulash. This beloved classic, with its rich blend of tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and tender pasta, is more than just a meal-it’s a heartwarming embrace in culinary form. Rooted in tradition yet wonderfully adaptable, American goulash offers savory comfort in every bite, inviting home cooks to create a dish that’s as nourishing as it is nostalgic. Join us as we explore the flavors and history behind this timeless staple, perfect for turning any ordinary dinner into a feast of familiar goodness.
Hearty American Goulash brings together layers of bold, comforting flavors in a dish that warms the soul and satisfies every appetite. Rooted in the classic Hungarian stew yet uniquely embraced by American kitchens, this version blends tender ground beef, robust spices, and tender pasta into a harmony of richness and ease. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a crowd-pleasing family meal, this recipe captures the essence of savory comfort in every bite.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean for richness)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for subtle heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning, releasing aromatic depth.
- Increase heat to medium-high, then add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned evenly, about 8 minutes. Drain excess fat to keep flavors balanced.
- Stir in smoked paprika, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let spices bloom in the hot beef for 2 minutes, stirring constantly for maximum flavor extraction.
- Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir gently to combine, scraping up any browned bits at the pan’s bottom for deeper complexity.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes to meld all the flavors and thicken the sauce beautifully.
- Uncover and add the uncooked elbow macaroni, stirring to submerge the pasta fully. Increase heat slightly to medium-low and cook uncovered until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot goulash. Cover briefly for 3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt invitingly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve piping hot for ultimate comfort.
Tips for Success
- Ground beef alternatives: For a leaner dish, substitute ground turkey or a blend of beef and pork for added depth.
- Spice adjustments: Scale up the red pepper flakes for a bolder kick or omit for a milder, kid-friendly version.
- Make-ahead tip: This Hearty American Goulash tastes even better the next day as flavors intensify. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much.
- Texture perfection: Stir frequently once pasta is added to keep it from clumping and ensure every bite has that tender yet toothsome pasta quality.
- Cheese swap: Try mozzarella for gooey stretchiness or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for creamy richness.
- Vegetable boost: Toss in diced bell peppers or mushrooms with onions for an added layer of nutrition and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Present this dish with a side of crusty garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls that soak up every luscious drop of sauce. Garnish with vibrant parsley or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for a sophisticated finish. For a fresh contrast, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. A chilled glass of robust red wine or a classic American lager pairs beautifully, amplifying each savory bite.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 15g |
Discover more comfort food inspiration by exploring our Ultimate Comfort Food Recipes collection. For deeper culinary insights, visit Serious Eats on American Goulash.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty American Goulash – Savory Comfort in Every Bite
Q: What exactly is American Goulash?
A: Think of American Goulash as the warm, comforting cousin of the classic Hungarian goulash. It’s a rich, tomato-based pasta dish loaded with ground beef, onions, and a handful of pantry spices. Unlike its paprika-rich European ancestor, American Goulash embraces simplicity and heartiness, offering a savory, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Q: How did American Goulash come to be a staple in the U.S.?
A: This dish evolved during the early 20th century, blending immigrant influences with the practicality of American kitchens. As pasta became more common and ground beef more affordable, families combined these ingredients to create a quick, filling dinner. It’s a culinary quilt stitched together by convenience, flavor, and nostalgia.
Q: What ingredients give American Goulash its signature flavor?
A: The magic lies in the harmony between tangy tomato sauce, hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and aromatics like garlic and onion. A touch of Italian seasoning, paprika, or chili powder can add warmth, while melted cheese often tops it off, crowning this dish with gooey goodness.
Q: How can I make my American Goulash extra hearty?
A: Boost the comfort factor by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of frozen peas. Using a combination of beef and pork or adding beans can deepen the flavor and texture. Slow simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer, more satisfying bite.
Q: Is American Goulash easy to make for busy weeknights?
A: Absolutely! It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together in about 30 minutes. Brown the meat, sauté your veggies, add sauce and pasta, then let simmer until everything is tender. Minimal effort, maximum reward – perfect for those evenings when you crave comfort food without the fuss.
Q: Can American Goulash be adapted for different dietary needs?
A: Definitely! Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option. Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate sensitivities, or increase the veggie load for extra nutrients. It’s a versatile canvas ready for your culinary creativity.
Q: What sides pair well with American Goulash?
A: Classic partners include a crisp green salad, crusty garlic bread, or buttery cornbread. A simple cucumber and tomato salad can offer a refreshing counterbalance to the dish’s rich, savory profile.
Q: Why does American Goulash bring such a sense of comfort?
A: At its core, American Goulash is pure comfort food-a nostalgic reminder of family dinners and cozy nights. Its warm, robust flavors, hearty texture, and approachable ingredients make it a timeless dish that nourishes both body and soul. Every bite tells a story of home, warmth, and simple joys.
Enjoy crafting your own savory pot of American Goulash-the perfect blend of tradition, taste, and tender loving care!
Insights and Conclusions
As the rich aroma of simmering tomatoes, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta fills your kitchen, it’s clear that hearty American goulash is more than just a meal-it’s a warm embrace on a plate. This savory comfort dish carries with it the legacy of home-cooked goodness, blending simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors that satisfy both body and soul. Whether served for a family dinner or a cozy night in, every bite promises nourishment and nostalgia. So next time you crave a taste of true comfort, remember that hearty American goulash is waiting to deliver savory satisfaction one delicious spoonful at a time.
