If you are searching for a comforting, hearty meal that’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor, look no further than this fantastic American Goulash Recipe. This dish takes classic pantry staples like ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomato juice, and transforms them into a vibrant, cozy one-pan wonder that the whole family will adore. It’s simple, satisfying, and effortlessly delicious — the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Once you try this American Goulash Recipe, it’s bound to become a go-to weeknight favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This American Goulash Recipe is beautifully straightforward, relying on basic ingredients that come together to create a rich melody of taste, texture, and color. Each element plays a crucial role, from the meaty depth of lean ground beef to the bright acidity of tomato juice, making this dish both wholesome and lively.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides the savory, protein-packed foundation that makes this dish so satisfying.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked): The classic pasta choice that soaks up the flavors perfectly while adding a fun bite.
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth without needing fresh onions.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Offers aromatic richness and a touch of warmth.
- 2¾ cup tomato juice: Acts as the flavorful and vibrant cooking liquid, infusing the pasta and meat with tangy goodness.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the acidity.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and seasoning finesse.
- 2 tsp basil: Gives a fragrant, herbaceous note.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A harmonious mix of herbs for that classic Italian-American flavor.
- Dash red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a little heat, perfect if you like your goulash with a bit of spice.
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings an umami boost and depth.
- Grated parmesan cheese for topping: A nutty, salty finishing touch that melts beautifully over the hot goulash.
How to Make American Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Start the Pasta
Begin by cooking the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir it around until it’s no longer pink, then drain off any excess fat to keep things from being greasy. Next, stir in the elbow macaroni and minced garlic, letting the pasta cook lightly until it develops just a touch of yellow tint. This step helps the pasta start absorbing flavors early on, laying the foundation for the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Mix in the Tomato Juice and Seasonings
Now it’s time for the magic! Pour in the tomato juice along with the dried minced onion flakes, salt, black pepper, basil, Italian seasoning, and a dash of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Don’t forget to add the Worcestershire sauce for that delicious umami kick. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure all those spices and herbs get evenly distributed in this rich tomato base.
Step 3: Simmer Until Perfectly Tender
Bring your mixture up to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the goulash to cook for about 20 minutes, or until the elbow macaroni is tender and has soaked up all those savory juices. This simmering step really melds all the flavors together and makes the dish irresistibly hearty.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan Cheese
When the pasta is perfectly cooked and the sauce is thick and flavorful, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle a generous layer of grated parmesan cheese over the top. The warm goulash will melt the cheese slightly, adding a creamy, nutty layer of yum that ties the whole dish together beautifully.
How to Serve American Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness and color, try garnishing your American Goulash with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese just before serving. A few fresh basil leaves can also add an enticing herbal aroma that complements the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables brings balance and brightness to the table. Garlic bread or warm rolls are also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce and making the meal feel extra cozy.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this American Goulash Recipe in colorful, rustic bowls to emphasize its home-cooked charm. For a fun twist, sprinkle some crushed red pepper or chili flakes on top for added spice. You could even bake it briefly in a casserole dish topped with shredded mozzarella for a bubbly, golden crust that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This American Goulash Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish by portioning it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It freezes beautifully and maintains its flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover goulash gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Adding a splash of water or tomato juice while reheating helps loosen the sauce and brings the dish back to its comforting consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this American Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to substitute with other small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or penne. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as some shapes may require a little more or less time to become tender.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, so the spice level is entirely up to you. If you prefer mild flavors, simply leave out the red pepper flakes, or add just a pinch for a gentle warmth.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils to keep the hearty texture. You might want to add extra seasoning or umami-packed ingredients like mushrooms or soy sauce to mimic the depth of flavor.
How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce in this American Goulash Recipe should be saucy enough to coat the pasta and beef nicely but not so watery that it feels soupy. It thickens as it simmers and the elbow macaroni absorbs the tomato juice, so watch for a nice, cohesive consistency.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales up wonderfully. Just use a larger skillet or split the batch into two pans to ensure even cooking. Increase simmering time slightly if needed, but keep an eye on the pasta to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
This American Goulash Recipe is truly a treasure for busy cooks who crave unbeatable flavor and simplicity. It’s warm, inviting, and perfect for sharing with loved ones around the dinner table. Give it a try, and I guarantee this recipe will bring comfort and joy to your meals time and time again.
Print
American Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic and comforting American Goulash recipe featuring lean ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and Worcestershire sauce. This hearty skillet meal is quick to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Seasonings and Aromatics
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp basil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- dash red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquids and Sauces
- 2¾ cup tomato juice
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Toppings
- grated parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until it is no longer pink. Once cooked, drain the excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasiness.
- Add macaroni and garlic: To the same skillet with beef, add the uncooked elbow macaroni and minced garlic cloves. Cook together, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni starts to turn a slightly yellow color, indicating it has begun to toast slightly.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Pour in the tomato juice, then add dried minced onion flakes, salt, black pepper, basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything well to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Simmer the goulash: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the elbow macaroni is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Serve with parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top before serving to add a savory, cheesy finish to the dish.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Using tomato juice instead of canned tomatoes gives a lighter texture and flavor to the dish.
- You can substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer, use fresh garlic instead of dried onion flakes for a fresher flavor.
- Do not overcook the macaroni to avoid mushiness; check tenderness close to the 20-minute mark.
