American Goulash is a warm, nostalgic dish that brings together elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and bell peppers in a savory tomato-based sauce. Unlike Hungarian goulash, which is more of a stew with chunks of meat and paprika, this version is a quick and easy pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and can be made in under an hour. The combination of tender pasta, juicy beef, and flavorful vegetables makes it a complete meal in itself — hearty, filling, and deeply satisfying.
🧂 Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (400g) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for depth)
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (for heat)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
🔪 Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid a greasy sauce.
3. Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using Worcestershire sauce or chili flakes, add them now. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Add the Pasta
Once the sauce is bubbling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the liquid and cook directly in the sauce, becoming tender and flavorful.
5. Finish and Serve
When the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning. If you like it cheesy, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
- Great for meal prep — leftovers taste even better the next day.
- Can be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
💡 Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or sour cream before serving.
- More Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for extra nutrition.
This Classic American Goulash is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, this recipe delivers every time.
Want me to turn this into a printable card or a video script next?