If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s both nostalgic and full of flavors, look no further than this Easy American Goulash Recipe. This classic dish brings together tender ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, tomato-based sauce that’s perforated with just the right blend of spices and veggies. Whether you’re cooking for your family after a busy day or entertaining friends, this dish promises simplicity without sacrificing taste, delivering a warm, satisfying hug on a plate that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for achieving the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your goulash. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor that make this dish so memorable and inviting.
- 1 teaspoon oil: For browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, adding the foundational flavor.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Offers a fragrant punch that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika: Brings warm, mild heat and a subtle smoky note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a hint of fresh herbal brightness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and deepens the sauce’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (OR soy sauce): Enhances umami and balances the acidity.
- 1 stick celery (finely diced): Provides crunch and a subtle earthy freshness.
- 2 bell peppers (diced, any color): Contributes vibrant color and a mildly sweet flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth (plus more as needed): Creates a luscious cooking liquid that simmers everything to tender perfection.
- 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce: Forms the saucy base with bright, tangy notes.
- 1 (15-oz) can petite diced tomatoes: Adds texture and fresh bursts of juicy tomato.
- Salt and ground pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all elements to life.
- 1 (8-oz) package dried macaroni pasta, uncooked: The classic pasta that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (or more to taste): Adds a creamy, comforting richness just before serving.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar recommended): Melts perfectly for a luscious finishing touch.
How to Make Easy American Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a teaspoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook until browned and flavorful, draining any excess fat if you prefer a leaner dish. Next, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic; sautéing them until fragrant softens their sharpness and brings out their natural sweetness. This step lays the savory foundation your goulash needs.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Vegetables
Now, sprinkle in the ground paprika and dried parsley, stirring to coat the meat evenly. Mix in the tomato paste for that rich punch of tomato flavor, followed by the Worcestershire sauce which deepens the umami profile beautifully. Then fold in the finely diced celery and colorful bell peppers, allowing them to stir-fry just enough to retain some crunch and add fresh texture. These veggies brighten the dish and make every bite more exciting.
Step 3: Combine Liquids and Macaroni, Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the broth, tomato sauce, and petite diced tomatoes, stirring thoroughly so the mixture is well combined. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then season with salt and pepper to suit your taste. The key here is to stir in the uncooked macaroni directly into the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium; let it simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding extra broth if the sauce thickens too much. The macaroni absorbs so much of the savory liquid, cooking right inside the sauce, which makes this recipe incredibly easy and flavorful.
Step 4: Finish with Creamy Cheese
Once the macaroni is tender and the sauce has melded nicely, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the cream cheese for that luxurious, velvety finish. Then sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet again, and let it sit for a couple of minutes. This melting step creates a gooey, irresistible layer that pulls everything together perfectly. Serve this dish piping hot and enjoy every comforting bite.
How to Serve Easy American Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Easy American Goulash Recipe even more inviting, consider topping it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions. A dollop of sour cream can add a pleasant tang that cuts through the richness, or a few red pepper flakes can bring a subtle spicy kick for those who like extra heat. These garnishes add personality and freshness that contrast nicely with the creamy, hearty base.
Side Dishes
Keep the meal balanced by pairing your goulash with crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette is refreshing alongside the rich flavors of the goulash. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments if you want to scoop up every last bit of that flavorful sauce. These sides complement the dish without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your goulash in hollowed-out bell peppers or stuffed into baked potatoes, which adds an element of surprise and makes the dish look extra special. You can also layer it in a casserole dish and top with breadcrumbs before baking for a golden, crunchy crust. This Easy American Goulash Recipe is versatile enough to adapt for casual dinners or cozy gatherings where presentation matters.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover goulash keeps wonderfully in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to mature even more overnight, making your next meal just as enjoyable. Before storing, allow the dish to cool completely, then refrigerate promptly to keep it fresh and safe.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Easy American Goulash Recipe in advance, it freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. This makes it a fabulous make-ahead meal option for those extra busy days or when you want a comforting dinner ready in a flash.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the frozen goulash overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if the mixture is too thick. This will help restore the creamy consistency and ensure every bite is just as delicious as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner option and will still hold the flavors well. Just be mindful to not overcook it as turkey can dry out more quickly.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Monterey Jack and Cheddar are classic choices because they melt beautifully and add great flavor. However, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a smoked cheese for a fun twist.
Is it necessary to add cream cheese?
While cream cheese adds a lovely creaminess and richness, you can skip or substitute it with sour cream or mascarpone if you prefer. It’s all about personal taste and texture preference.
Can I prepare the goulash without bell peppers or celery?
Yes, you can! While these vegetables add color and texture, you can omit them or substitute with other veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. The dish will still turn out delicious.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or top with sliced jalapeños when serving. You can also stir in a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce before simmering.
Final Thoughts
This Easy American Goulash Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace after a long day. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for cooks of all levels who want a satisfying meal without fuss. I encourage you to give this recipe a try — it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s cozy, flavorful, and downright comforting. Get your skillet ready, and enjoy the deliciousness waiting to happen!
Print
Easy American Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Easy American Goulash is a comforting one-pot dish featuring browned ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and tender macaroni simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, finished with creamy cheese for a rich, satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 teaspoon oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 stick celery, finely diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced (any color; green and red used)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce)
- Salt and ground pepper, to taste
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 1/2 cups beef or chicken broth (plus more as needed)
- 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-oz) can petite diced tomatoes
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 (8-oz) package dried macaroni pasta, uncooked
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (or more to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
Instructions
- Brown meat and onion: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if desired. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for a few more minutes until fragrant and the onion is softened.
- Add seasoning and vegetables: Stir in ground paprika, dried parsley, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Then add the finely diced celery and diced bell peppers. Stir-fry the mixture for a couple of minutes to combine flavors.
- Add remaining ingredients and cook: Pour in the beef or chicken broth, tomato sauce, and petite diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the uncooked macaroni, reduce heat to medium, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the macaroni are tender. Stir occasionally and add extra broth if necessary to prevent drying.
- Finish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cream cheese until well combined. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, cover again, and let it sit for 2 minutes until the cheese has melted. Serve hot immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use full-fat cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese.
- If you prefer, substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Add extra broth if the pasta absorbs too much liquid while cooking.
- This dish stores well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
