Easy American Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights, this one-pot meal is both simple to prepare and packed with delicious flavors. With a mix of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and melted cheese, this goulash is sure to become a family favorite.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps cook the vegetables and beef.
- 1 medium sweet onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The main protein component, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a slight kick of heat.
- A few turns of fresh cracked black pepper: Adds depth and a mild spiciness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a flavorful liquid base for the sauce.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Adds a rich and tangy tomato flavor.
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and freshness to the sauce.
- 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory and slightly tangy flavor.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with aromatic herbs.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and color.
- 1 & 1/2 cups macaroni pasta, uncooked: Absorbs the flavors of the sauce and adds texture.
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish, adding a creamy and cheesy flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh and vibrant finishing touch.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large dutch oven or pot over medium-high. Add onion, garlic, and beef; cook until browned and no pink remains, breaking up into crumbles, stirring frequently, about 3 minutes. Season with the salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Drain excess fat.
- Step 2:
- Stir in the tomato paste until combined.
- Step 3:
- Pour in the chicken broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), Worcestershire, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Season with a bit more salt and pepper, to taste.
- Step 4:
- Bring to a boil and add in pasta; cover, reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook until pasta is tender, about 14 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the cheese and parsley.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese and parsley, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
Easy American Goulash is best served hot, straight from the pot, making it a perfect meal for any busy night. Garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
If you have leftovers, store the goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.
Helpful Notes
For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese. If you prefer a spicier goulash, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. According to culinary experts, using fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the flavor profile of the dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta shapes, such as penne or rotini, to add variety to your goulash.