Hearty American Goulash

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Hearty American Goulash

Ingredients**

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth (or water + bouillon)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity, optional)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions**

  1. Brown the Beef:
  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  • Drain excess fat if needed.
  1. Sauté Aromatics:
  • Add chopped onion and bell pepper.
  • Sauté until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
  1. Add Tomato Base:
  • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  • Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar (if using), and bay leaf.
  • Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
  1. Simmer:
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–20 minutes uncovered.
  1. Cook the Macaroni:
  • Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
  • Cover and simmer for another 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened. Add a splash of water if it gets too thick.
  1. Cheesy Option (Optional):
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy finish, or top each bowl before serving.
  1. Taste and Adjust:
  • Remove bay leaf.
  • Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a touch of sugar if needed.

Storage & Reheating**

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Tips & Variations**

  • Add corn, peas, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
  • Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
  • Make it spicy with hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes.
  • Stir in a spoon of sour cream when serving for creaminess.

History & Origin**

American Goulash is a comfort dish that evolved from Hungarian gulyás but took on a life of its own in U.S. kitchens. Instead of chunks of stewed meat and potatoes, it uses ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce — perfect for busy families and potlucks. It became especially popular in the Midwest and the South in the 1950s–70s.

Benefits**

  • One-pot meal = easy cleanup
  • Great source of protein, fiber, and iron
  • Budget-friendly and feeds a crowd
  • Kid-approved and freezer-friendly

Loved By**

This dish is adored by:

  • Busy parents
  • Meal preppers
  • Comfort food lovers
  • Anyone who grew up with grandma’s goulash!

Conclusion**

This big bowl of American Goulash brings warmth, nostalgia, and full bellies. It’s simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a family gathering — it’s always a hit

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