If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty one-pot meal that the whole family will love, this Easy American Goulash Recipe for Family Dinners is exactly what you need. Packed with ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish delivers simple, classic flavors that never go out of style.

American Goulash is one of those nostalgic recipes that brings everyone to the table. It’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s a complete meal all on its own—though you can easily pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for an extra satisfying dinner.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS AMERICAN GOULASH

Here’s why this recipe is always a hit:

• Quick and easy with minimal prep.
• All made in one pot for easy cleanup.
• Rich, savory flavors that kids and adults love.
• Budget-friendly using simple pantry staples.
• Great for leftovers and meal prep.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Gather these ingredients before you get started:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

HELPFUL TIPS BEFORE YOU START

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
• Freshly chopped onions and minced garlic add the best flavor.
• Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, but other small pastas work too.
• Adding cheese is optional but makes the dish extra creamy and comforting.
• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.

LET’S GET STARTED: THE FIRST STEPS

STEP 1: COOK THE BEEF

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

STEP 2: ADD ONION AND GARLIC

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant.

STEP 3: ADD LIQUIDS AND SEASONING

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a rich, savory base.

STEP 4: SIMMER THE SAUCE

Cover the pot and let the sauce simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together before adding the pasta.

HOW TO COOK THE PASTA AND FINISH YOUR AMERICAN GOULASH

With the flavorful sauce simmering, it’s time to bring the dish together by adding the pasta and creating that perfect, hearty texture that makes American Goulash so satisfying.

THE SECRET TO PERFECTLY COOKED GOULASH

Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb all the rich flavors while thickening the dish naturally. The key is to stir occasionally and keep an eye on the pasta’s tenderness to avoid overcooking.

LET’S CONTINUE: COOKING THE PASTA AND FINISHING THE DISH

STEP 5: ADD PASTA

Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni into the simmering sauce. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and continue simmering for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.

STEP 6: ADD CHEESE (OPTIONAL)

If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, stir it into the goulash once the pasta is fully cooked. Mix well until the cheese has melted and created a creamy, cheesy texture throughout the dish.

STEP 7: SERVE

Spoon the goulash into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot for a cozy, comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

EXPERT TIPS FOR THE BEST AMERICAN GOULASH

• Adjust consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of beef broth or water.
• Use quality beef: Lean ground beef keeps the dish flavorful without being greasy.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Check for doneness around the 15-minute mark to keep the pasta from getting mushy.
• Customize the cheese: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavors.
• Double the recipe: This goulash stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This American Goulash is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with:

• A fresh green salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed vegetables
• A side of coleslaw for a bit of crunch

It’s the perfect family dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT EASY AMERICAN GOULASH

Here are answers to some common questions that may help you get the best results when making this classic dish.

1. Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?

Yes. This dish reheats very well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as delicious.

2. Can I freeze American Goulash?

Absolutely. Allow the goulash to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Yes. Both ground turkey and ground chicken are great substitutes if you want a leaner version. The cooking steps remain the same.

4. Do I have to use elbow macaroni?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but you can use any small pasta like shells, penne, or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may cook slightly faster or slower.

5. How can I add more vegetables?

You can easily add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach to the sauce when cooking the onion and garlic. This adds extra nutrition and flavor.

6. What makes American Goulash different from Hungarian Goulash?

American Goulash is a one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and pasta, while Hungarian Goulash is a stew made with chunks of beef, paprika, and often served over noodles or potatoes.

7. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but it’s best to cook the pasta separately and stir it in at the end to avoid overcooking. Cook the meat and sauce in the slow cooker on LOW for 4-6 hours, then add cooked pasta before serving.

CONCLUSION: THE ULTIMATE COMFORT FOOD FOR BUSY FAMILIES

This Easy American Goulash Recipe for Family Dinners delivers everything you want in a comforting, weeknight meal: simple ingredients, rich flavor, one-pot convenience, and plenty of leftovers for the next day. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family favorite after the very first bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want an easy, hearty meal that everyone will enjoy, this goulash is sure to hit the spot. I hope you give it a try and make it part of your regular dinner rotation.

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