American Goulash Recipe

Discover an easy and delicious American Goulash recipe! Made in one pot with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato sauce, this comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 30 minutes

What Is the Difference Between Hungarian Goulash and American Goulash Recipe?

Perhaps the most satisfying of these armchair historians is someone who can start with a definition of goulash, which has its roots in the Hungarian word “gulyáshús,” or “meat cooked by herdsmen,” and dates back at least to the 9th century. Traditional Hungarian Goulash is a hearty stew filled with chunks of meat and vegetables simmered in a rich, paprika-infused broth. American Goulash, sometimes referred to as American Chop Suey, would not be mistaken for an authentic goulash; ground beef, tomato sauce, seasonings, and elbow macaroni combine quickly in one convenient pot.

No matter what you call it, this is a pure comfort food on a plate, and my family never leaves a single bite behind when I make this one. In fact, I might just whip it up again for dinner tonight!

Did you ever wonder what distinguished spaghetti from American Goulash?
Of course, the major difference is that the former cooks the pasta and the meat sauce together in one pot, whereas the latter separates both until served.

Can you Freez American Goulash ?

Yes, American Goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months.Let it cool completely before freezing the goulash.Store in airtight containers or freezer bags.Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to eat.Reheat on the stovetop or microwave for a quick meal.Freezing goulash is a great way to prep ahead and save time!

About This American Goulash Recipe:

It’s a one-pan pasta-dish so you cook the pasta right into it-the pasta cooks right into the sauce.
Since dry pasta absorbs quite a lot of liquid while cooking, it needs a few cups of broth. Don’t worry, though-you won’t end up with a soupy dish at all. What you’ll be shocked at is perfect texture when the starch from the pasta gives the sauce the most deliciously creamy feel.

Ingredients Needed

I like that the ingredients are always readily available in my fridge, freezer, and pantry for this easy supper that I almost always make. The hardest part is usually to remember to thaw the ground beef ahead of time! Here’s what you’ll need:

Lean ground beef : I prefer using lean ground beef so there is no excess fat to drain after browning. Ground turkey works pretty well too.
Onions and garlic:These add a full, slow-cooked flavor without too much fuss.
Gluten-free Worcestershire sauce:Not all brands are gluten-free so be sure to look. I use Lea & Perrins, which is gluten-free in the U.S. as of 8/22.
Pepper and seasoned salt : I make my own seasoned salt; it’s really easy with just four ingredients!
Chicken or beef broth : I almost always have leftover chicken broth in the fridge, but beef broth would also work.
Tomato sauce : Instead of jarred spaghetti sauce, use canned tomato sauce.
Petite diced tomatoes : These burst with fresh tomato flavor in the sauce.
Italian seasoning :This is what makes American Goulash distinct from the Hungarian version, using oregano, basil, parsley instead of paprika.
Bay leaf : Adds depth of flavor
Gluten-free elbow noodles : I like a corn/rice combination to be better in charge of texture, but brown rice pasta can work too.

Goulash Variations

What I love about this quick American Goulash recipe is how versatile it can be. One difference is that you don’t have to be so literal when using goulash as a blank canvas, just like when following traditional Hungarian Goulash. Just fill it in with all your favorite seasonings and ingredients. Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

Add a mac-and-cheese-meets-spaghetti vibe with shredded sharp cheddar on top.
Stir in sour cream at the end for a creamy twist.

Mix in shredded mozzarella and top with diced pepperoni or your favorite pizza toppings for a pizza version of the recipe; don’t forget a sprinkle of parmesan!

Add nutrition with a cup or two of frozen riced cauliflower mixed in when browning the beef.

Add some texture and flavor to the beef with 8 ounces of finely chopped mushrooms.

Convert it into Chili Mac by adding shredded cheddar, chili powder, and a can of black or kidney beans.

Italian sausage may be swapped for beef if desired for an Italian-inspired flavor.

How to Make American Goulash?

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large saucepan, skillet or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high. Add the ground beef, the diced shallot or yellow onion and minced garlic. Use a wooden spoon to chop the beef mixture up. Then add Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt and pepper for seasonings.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in broth, tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and little more seasoned salt. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and allow sauce to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

Stir the elbow noodles into the sauce then continue to simmer for another 12 to 14 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Near the end of the cooking time, you may need to turn the heat down slightly to maintain a gentle simmer. Be sure to stir often to ensure the noodles are cooking evenly.

And that’s it-told you it was easy! This American Goulash is one of the simplest one-pot meals you can whip up. Just pull out the bay leaf, dish into bowls, and you are good to go. Adding shredded cheese on top is totally optional, although highly recommended, I should say!

FAQs for American Goulash Recipe

What is American Goulash?
American Goulash is a hearty, one-pot meal featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and seasonings. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

How do I make American Goulash?
A simplified recipe to make American Goulash is browning ground beef with onions and garlic. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Mix in elbow macaroni and simmer until the pasta is done and flavors have combined.

Can one freeze American Goulash?
Yes, American Goulash freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely first, and then put the American Goulash in an airtight container-or even in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What can I add to American Goulash to make it my own?
Add shredded cheese or sour cream to give it a richness. You can even go crazy and add some pizza flavors such as mozzarella and pepperoni. For an added nutritional boost, stir in some riced cauliflower or mushrooms. Or you can try substituting Italian sausage for a different flavor.

Preparation Time American Goulash will take about 30 minutes to cook. This is enough time to brown the meat, to have allowed the sauce to simmer and to cook the pasta.

What is the difference between American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash?
American Goulash is an instant, one-pot dish of ground beef, elbow macaroni seasoned with Italian herbs. Hungarian Goulash is a traditional stew of chunks of meat, vegetables, and paprika.

Do I have to use ground beef, or can I substitute it with ground turkey?
Of course, since you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef in American Goulash. It will make it taste lighter but will still be a comfort food.

Do I have to use chicken or beef broth?
You can use chicken or beef broth in American Goulash-your preference and what is available.