Classic American Goulash is beloved for its simplicity and heartiness. It’s a filling, all-in-one meal that requires minimal ingredients and cleanup. The dish combines tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a way that’s cozy and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Elbow macaroni
Onion
Garlic
Canned diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Tomato paste
Beef broth or water
Worcestershire sauce
Bay leaves
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Directions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
Add minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Stir in the elbow macaroni and cover the pot. Simmer for another 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove bay leaves before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
Cheesy Goulash: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for a creamy, cheesy twist.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for added heat.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Turkey Goulash: Substitute ground turkey for beef to lighten the dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
Allow the goulash to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. Microwave in a microwave-safe container in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
What is the difference between American goulash and Hungarian goulash?
American goulash is a pasta and beef-based dish with tomato sauce, while Hungarian goulash is a stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and vegetables.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well as substitutes for elbow macaroni.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients (except pasta) in a slow cooker. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How can I make it less tomato-heavy?
Reduce the amount of tomato sauce and replace some with additional broth or add a dollop of sour cream at the end for balance.
What kind of ground meat works best?
Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey, chicken, or a meatless alternative can be used as well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure you have a large enough pot. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly.
What should I serve with American goulash?
It pairs well with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente and avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally and monitor closely.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, stir in shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.
Conclusion
Classic American Goulash is a timeless, satisfying meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or hearty family dinners, this recipe offers comforting familiarity with the flexibility to make it your own. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or introducing it to a new generation, this goulash is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Classic American Goulash is a hearty, one-pot comfort meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and simple seasonings. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:35 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 to 8 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds ground beef
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth (or water)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 1/2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
Add minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Stir in the elbow macaroni and cover the pot. Simmer for another 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Remove bay leaves before serving. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.
Notes
Add shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy, cheesy version.Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.Leftovers can be stored in the fridge up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
