What ingredients do I need to make a classic American goulash recipe?

Key ingredients include lean ground beef, diced onion, optional green bell pepper, minced garlic, tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning (a mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme), bay leaves, uncooked elbow macaroni, and shredded cheddar cheese. Optional vegetables can be added for variety and nutrition.

How do I cook goulash step-by-step for the best flavor?

Brown ground beef with diced onions and bell peppers until no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add minced garlic, then stir in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, seasonings, and bay leaves. Stir in uncooked macaroni and simmer covered until pasta is tender, about 20 minutes. Remove bay leaves and season to taste. Stir in cheddar cheese before serving or bake for a cheesy crust.

Can I make a healthier or creamier version of goulash?

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to reduce fat. Add extra vegetables like spinach or carrots for nutrition. Stir in sour cream at the end for a creamy texture. Using low-sodium broth and seasoning can also make it healthier.

What are the best ways to store and reheat leftover goulash?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen goulash overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to maintain moisture.

Goulash Recipe: Easy One-Pan American Comfort Food in 30 Minutes

Name: Simple One-Pan American Goulash: A Classic, Easy Recipe for Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional); 2 pounds lean ground beef; 3 teaspoons garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce; 2 cans (15 oz each) petite diced tomatoes; 3 cups beef broth; 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (basil, marjoram, rosemary, thyme, oregano blend); 3 bay leaves; 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Description

🍲 This simple one-pan American goulash offers a hearty, comforting meal with rich flavors and easy preparation.
🥘 Combining ground beef, pasta, and savory tomato sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or satisfying family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
2 pounds lean ground beef
3 teaspoons garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
2 cans (15 oz each) petite diced tomatoes
3 cups beef broth
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons seasoned salt (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (basil, marjoram, rosemary, thyme, oregano blend)
3 bay leaves
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, green bell pepper (if using), and ground beef. Cook until beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.
4. Add uncooked macaroni noodles and stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low or medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. Add more beef broth if needed to adjust consistency.
6. Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
7. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving or sprinkle on top and serve hot.
8. Optional: Transfer to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles for a baked variation.

Notes

🧑‍🍳 Use a large pot or 12-inch cast iron skillet for even cooking and ample serving size.
🍗 Substitute ground turkey for leaner protein to reduce fat content.
🥕 Boost nutrition by adding extra vegetables like corn, peas, carrots, or spinach to the dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: One-Pan Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 500 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 1100 mg
Fat: 26 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: American Goulash,One-Pan Meal,Comfort Food,Easy Goulash