Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nostalgic American Goulash is the ultimate comfort food that brings back memories of warm, home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. It’s a simple, one-pot dish packed with savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, tomato-based sauce. Quick to prepare and even easier to clean up, this hearty classic is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or feeding a hungry crowd. Its versatility allows you to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, making it a family favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.

Ingredients

For the Base
olive oil
onion
green bell pepper
ground beef (90% lean)
garlic

For the Sauce
beef broth
tomato sauce
diced tomatoes (with juices)
Worcestershire sauce
Italian seasoning
bay leaves
paprika
salt and pepper

For the Finale
macaroni noodles
cheddar cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat Oil

   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

2. Sauté Veggies and Beef

   • Add diced onion and green bell pepper.

   • Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned and vegetables are tender, about 5–7 minutes.

3. Add Garlic

   • Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Stir in Sauce Ingredients

   • Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

5. Cook Pasta

   • Add uncooked macaroni noodles.

   • Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.

6. Finish with Cheese

   • Remove bay leaves.

   • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

   • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Serve Warm

   • Garnish with extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or mushrooms in place of ground beef.

• Pasta Swap: Try penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta for a fun twist.

• More Veggies: Add chopped spinach, peas, or grated carrots for added nutrition.

• Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

• Extra Creaminess: Stir in cream cheese or ricotta near the end for richness.

• Smoky Flavor: Substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika for depth.

• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil or oregano instead of dried Italian seasoning.

• Sweet Tang: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar for balance.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Let cool completely before freezing.

• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for American Goulash?

Choose fresh, firm vegetables and high-quality ground beef (90% lean). Bright bell peppers and aromatic garlic elevate the flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables and cook the beef ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge and combine with sauce and pasta when ready to cook.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Let the goulash cool completely, then freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat goulash?

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What pasta shapes can I use instead of macaroni?

You can use penne, fusilli, or rotini—any short pasta shape will work well and provide a unique texture.

How do I prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom?

Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking, especially after you first add it, to keep it from sticking to the pot.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes. Add crushed red pepper flakes or swap in spicy sausage for a bold, spicy version.

What cheese alternatives work best?

Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of melty cheeses can be used in place of cheddar for different flavor profiles.

How do I balance the acidity in the tomato sauce?

A small amount of brown sugar or balsamic vinegar can round out the flavor and reduce acidity in the sauce.

Conclusion

Nostalgic American Goulash is the kind of recipe that brings warmth to your table and comfort to your soul. With minimal effort, this one-pot wonder delivers big on flavor, texture, and heart. Whether you stick to the classic or experiment with tasty variations, it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your home. Gather your loved ones, serve up a bowl, and enjoy the delicious simplicity of this timeless American favorite.