American Goulash

American Goulash is pure comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This hearty dish combines simple ingredients like ground beef, canned tomatoes, and macaroni to create a flavorful one-pot wonder. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, American Goulash is not just easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a cook time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup as everything cooks in a single saucepan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting proteins.
• Budget-Friendly: Made from affordable ingredients, this dish is easy on the wallet while still being delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools that will make your process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowls

Why These Tools Matter

• Large saucepan: Allows you to cook all ingredients together without overflow.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring and preventing any sticking at the bottom of the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy in your ingredients for the best flavor outcome.

Ingredients

This American Goulash is pure comfort food made all in one pot. Made with simple ingredients: ground beef, canned tomatoes, and macaroni.

For the Goulash

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 15 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta, cooked (measured before cooking)
• grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

How to Make American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown and crumble 1 pound ground beef along with 1 small diced onion and 1 teaspoon minced garlic. Drain excess grease to keep the dish light.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes

Stir in a 15-ounce can of crushed tomatoes (with juices) and an 8-ounce can of tomato sauce until well combined.

Step 3: Season It Up

Season with 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate Pasta

Then add in 1 cup of cooked elbow macaroni pasta. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your comforting plate of American Goulash!

How to Serve American Goulash

Serving American Goulash is a delightful experience, as it not only warms the heart but also pleases the palate. This dish is versatile and can be presented in various ways to enhance its appeal.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• With Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor and richness.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can add a pop of color and a burst of freshness.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad can balance the meal, adding a refreshing crunch.

Comfort Food Pairings

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully, complementing the flavors of goulash.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or green beans brings a healthy touch to your plate.

How to Perfect American Goulash

Perfecting American Goulash involves a few simple yet effective tips that can elevate this dish from good to great.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t shy away from adjusting salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your taste preferences.
• Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ground beef and canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Cooking Pasta Separately: Cooking the elbow macaroni separately ensures it doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
• Let it Rest: Allow the goulash to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for American Goulash

When planning a meal around American Goulash, side dishes play an essential role in creating a balanced dining experience. Here are some perfect pairings.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds crunch and zest.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a comforting starch alongside the goulash.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors of goulash.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans add depth and sweetness to your meal.
6. Macaroni Salad: A chilled macaroni salad can create a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making American Goulash can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Ignoring seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can lead to a bland dish. Always taste your goulash and adjust accordingly.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the macaroni too long, it can become mushy in the goulash. Ensure it’s cooked al dente before adding it.
• Skipping the simmering step: Failing to simmer allows flavors to remain separate. Always let your goulash simmer to meld the flavors together.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor quality canned tomatoes can ruin your dish. Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes for better flavor.
• Not draining excess grease: Leaving too much grease from the beef can make your goulash greasy. Drain it well after browning the meat.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing American Goulash

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place goulash in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place goulash in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is American Goulash?

American Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni, seasoned with Italian herbs.

Can I customize my American Goulash?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even swap out ground beef for chicken or turkey.

How long does it take to make American Goulash?

This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.

Is American Goulash healthy?

While it’s hearty, you can make it healthier by using lean meat and adding more vegetables.

Conclusion

This American Goulash recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and versatility. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave comfort food!

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