If you’ve ever wanted a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy American-Style Goulash Recipe. It’s a hearty, comforting dish packed with tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all simmered together in a savory, tomato-rich sauce that tastes like home. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or craving a cozy solo meal, this recipe balances simplicity with mouthwatering flavor in a way that’s utterly addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy American-Style Goulash Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that classic rich color we all love.
- ¾ pound ground beef: The hearty base that adds a juicy, meaty depth; feel free to swap with ground turkey or bison for a lighter twist.
- ½ yellow onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation when sautéed.
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth: Keeps things moist and infuses savory goodness without overpowering.
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (1 can): Brings acidity and bright tomato flavor that’s key to any goulash.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds a rich, herb-infused layer of tomatoey comfort.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional): Balances the acidity with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 bay leaf: A little secret that infuses a subtle aromatic depth.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Brings classic herbal notes that round out the dish.
- 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami and a surprising savoriness that elevates the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that comforting garlic punch without any prep hassle.
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika: Adds warmth and a touch of smoky sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt: Enhances all the flavors with a perfect salt blend.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and completes the spice profile.
- 1 cup dry elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that perfectly soaks up the sauce.
- ½ cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional): Melts in luscious pockets to add richness and gooey texture.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, bright garnish that adds color and freshness to the final dish.
How to Make Easy American-Style Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat and Onions
Start by heating a Dutch oven over medium heat and cooking your ground beef together with the diced onion. This step softens the onions and browns the meat, producing that irresistible aroma that signals good food is on its way. It only takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 2: Drain Excess Grease
Draining the grease keeps the dish from becoming too oily and lets the other flavors shine through without being weighed down. It’s a simple but important step that makes your goulash taste clean and balanced.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add beef broth, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, seasoned salt, and black pepper all at once. Bring this flavorful mixture to a boil, which helps meld the diverse ingredients into a harmonious sauce that’s rich with savoriness and a hint of sweetness.
Step 4: Simmer to Meld Flavors
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let everything simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes. This step allows the spices and herbs to penetrate deeply, turning your sauce into a velvety base that perfectly complements the pasta you’ll add shortly.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce
Stir in the dry elbow macaroni, keeping the pot covered as the pasta cooks for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but avoid overcooking—you’re aiming for tender pasta that still holds its shape beautifully within the sauce.
Step 6: Final Seasoning Touches
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the bay leaf and give your goulash a taste. Adjust the seasonings to suit your preference—perhaps a tad more pepper or a pinch of salt. That’s the joy of this recipe: it’s flexible and welcomes your personal touch.
Step 7: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top. If your Dutch oven is oven-safe, pop it under a broiler to melt and slightly brown the cheese for a luscious, golden finish that’s impossible to resist.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top off your bowl with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of green and fresh flavor. It’s that simple finishing touch that brightens the look and taste of this hearty dish.
How to Serve Easy American-Style Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley not only brings an herbaceous brightness but also visually lifts the dish, making each bowl inviting and fragrant. A little shredded cheddar on top adds creamy richness and that comforting, melty cheese factor everyone loves.
Side Dishes
This dish really shines on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, consider a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple steamed green like broccoli also complement the hearty flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve in rustic bowls with extra cheese and parsley on the side. If you want a fun twist, bake the goulash in a casserole dish topped with more cheese and breadcrumbs for a bubbly, crunchy crust. It transforms this humble meal into a show-stopper for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy American-Style Goulash Recipe keeps incredibly well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain flavor and moisture, making for a quick and comforting meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover goulash for up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture. Just allow it to cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally for even warming and a fresh, just-cooked taste.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey (or even chicken, pork, or bison) works wonderfully in this recipe. It’s a lighter option that still absorbs the sauce beautifully and keeps the dish satisfying.
Is it important to use low-sodium broth and soy sauce?
Using low-sodium versions helps you control the saltiness of the dish and lets the other seasonings shine through without being overwhelmed by salt.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta of your choice. The flavors remain just as delicious, and it’s a great way to accommodate dietary needs.
What’s the purpose of the bay leaf?
The bay leaf adds a subtle herbal aroma and depth to the sauce during simmering, but remember to remove it before serving as it’s not meant to be eaten.
Can I prepare this recipe without cheese?
Of course! The cheese is an optional addition that adds richness, but the goulash is flavorful and satisfying all on its own without it.
Final Thoughts
This Easy American-Style Goulash Recipe is a timeless, soul-satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting meal that feels like a hug. It’s approachable, flavorful, and flexible enough to adapt to your preferences. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your go-to favorites in no time!
