American Goulash Recipe

This American Goulash recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s packed with rich tomato flavor, tender pasta, and hearty ground beef. This dish is a perfect weeknight staple, giving you a simple dish with plenty of room for customization. With a mix of classic Italian seasoning, garlic, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, each bite is loaded with flavor. The addition of melty mozzarella and parmesan is a perfect way to top off this dish. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this goulash is a great option.

American Goulash Recipe

American Goulash differs from Hungarian goulash, as it leans more toward a tomato-based pasta dish rather than a stew. The combination of beef, pasta, and cheese gives you an incredible mix of flavors and textures with plenty of protein from the ground beef.

This dish is easy to modify depending on your family’s preferences. You can use different types of ground meat like ground pork, venison, or Italian sausage, swap out the pasta for a different type, or increase the spice level if you like it hot. If you like a chunkier texture, diced tomatoes bring more body to the sauce.

One of the best parts about this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. The flavors continue to meld as it sits, making leftovers just as good as the first serving. Plus, it reheats well, making it perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• One-Pot Convenience – Easy cleanup with minimal dishes.
• Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults enjoy.
• Customizable – Adjust spices, add veggies, or change the pasta.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day.
• Rich and Hearty – A satisfying combination of beef, pasta, and cheese.

Spaghetti and Meatballs

American Goulash Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the grocery store or if you have all the ingredients you need for this? Check out this list! For the full ingredients list, including the amounts you’ll need, make sure to scroll to the bottom and view the recipe card.

• Macaroni Noodles
• Lean Ground Beef
• Italian Seasoning
• Salt
• Garlic Powder
• Black Pepper
• Red Pepper Flakes
• Small Onion
• Red Bell Pepper
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Cloves
• San Marzano Tomatoes (Canned)
• Tomato Sauce
• Beef Stock
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Parmesan Cheese
• Mozzarella Cheese

Tortellini Soup

How To Make Homemade Goulash

Looking to see what you’re getting into here? Below is a general overview of the recipe steps. When you’re cooking, make sure to use the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full instructions.

1. Cook the Pasta – Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the macaroni until just underdone. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and cook the ground beef with Italian seasoning, salt, garlic powder, pepper, red pepper flakes, onion, and red bell pepper. Drain excess fat.
3. Build the Sauce – Add more olive oil to the pan along with the minced garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef stock, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Simmer – Let the sauce cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to deepen the flavors.
5. Combine and Serve – Add the cooked pasta and cheese to the sauce, stirring until everything is well incorporated. Serve hot.

Spaghetti Pie

FAQ

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of beef stock to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish holds up well when made in advance. Cook the goulash completely, let it cool, then store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat and stir in a little extra liquid if needed.

Can I freeze American Goulash?

Absolutely! Let the goulash cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What variations can I try?

• Swap ground beef for ground pork or sausage.
• Use different pasta shapes like rotini or penne.
• Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Stir in a splash of heavy cream for an extra creamy texture.

Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta

Serve This With…

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Green Salad – A fresh side to balance the richness.
• Steamed Vegetables – Adds color and extra nutrients.

Homemade Goulash is a simple, satisfying meal that is an American classic. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is quick, easy, and delicious!

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