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–+ servings
Goulash 1

American Goulash

This hearty, flavor-packed American goulash recipe transforms simple ingredients into a soul-satisfying meal that breaks the dinner monotony without breaking your budget or schedule. Unlike its Hungarian cousin, this version combines ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni into a quick-cooking dish that delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

  • Dutch Oven or Large Deep Skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 2 lbs ground beef 85% lean for optimal flavor
  • 1 large yellow onion diced (about 1½ cups)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced (or 1½ teaspoons garlic powder)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes 14.5 oz each, undrained
  • 1 can tomato sauce 15 oz
  • 1½ cups beef broth low sodium preferred

For the Seasoning Blend

  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sugar balances acidity
  • 1½ teaspoons salt adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Instructions
 

  • In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. If your beef is higher in fat content, consider draining off excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
  • Add the diced onion to the beef and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat the meat mixture evenly, allowing the spices to toast slightly for about 1 minute.
  • Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, beef broth, bay leaves, and sugar. Stir to combine, making sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 5 minutes to begin melding the flavors.
  • Add the uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the pot, stirring to ensure it's submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite (al dente).
  • Remove the bay leaves and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Let the goulash stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a healthier version, consider these modifications:
  • Add 1-2 cups of diced bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, or spinach for increased vitamins and fiber
  • Use 93% lean ground beef or substitute half the meat with lentils
  • Replace traditional macaroni with whole wheat pasta
  • Use no-salt-added tomato products to reduce sodium
For serving, try topping with freshly grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or serve alongside a simple green salad and crusty garlic bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 28gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 720mgPotassium: 815mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gCalcium: 8mgIron: 25mg
Keyword Goulash, American Goulash, One Pot Meal, Comfort Food, Beef and Pasta
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