Non Veg Recipes Mason Williams December 8, 2024 0 Comments

Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style)

There’s something about a good goulash that feels like a warm hug. It’s hearty, filling, and brings back memories of family dinners and cozy kitchen conversations. If you’ve ever wondered how to make an Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style) that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours of cooking, you’re in luck. This American-style goulash is the kind of meal that brings comfort, satisfies hunger, and is surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday dinner, hosting friends, or just craving some classic comfort food, this recipe has got your back.

Let’s break it all down step by step, sprinkle in some personal anecdotes and kitchen hacks, and get you on your way to making an Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style) that everyone will love.

Table of Contents

What is Goulash, Anyway?

Before we dive in, let’s clear up what goulash is. Goulash has European roots, specifically from Hungary, where it was traditionally a slow-cooked stew with meat, paprika, and vegetables. However, the American version of goulash is a little different. It’s more like a one-pot pasta-and-meat casserole, filled with ground meat, tomatoes, macaroni, and a mix of spices. It’s quick, easy, and can be customized based on what you have in your pantry.

My love for American goulash goes back to my childhood. My mom would make it on chilly Sunday evenings. The smell of meat, tomato sauce, and garlic would fill the kitchen, and we’d all gather around the table, hungry and happy. It’s a dish that symbolizes simplicity and heartiness. Let’s recreate that experience in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style)

Quick and Easy: No need to spend hours in the kitchen. This goulash is ready in about 30-40 minutes.
Budget-Friendly: You don’t need fancy or expensive ingredients. Most of these items are staples you probably already have.
Comfort Food Galore: It’s warm, hearty, and hits the spot every single time.
Customizable: Use what you have! Throw in extra veggies, adjust the spices, or change the pasta shape.
Family-Friendly: A dish that even picky eaters will love.

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in.

Ingredients for Your Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style)

Before we get to the cooking, let’s gather everything you need. Here’s what you’ll need for an Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style):

For the Goulash:

1 pound of ground beef (you can use ground turkey or sausage if you prefer)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups of uncooked macaroni (or any pasta shape you like)
1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes (drained)
1 tablespoon of tomato paste
2 teaspoons of dried basil
1 teaspoon of oregano
1 teaspoon of salt (to taste)
½ teaspoon of black pepper
½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Optional Additions:

1 cup of mixed bell peppers, chopped
1 cup of frozen peas
1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works best)

Step By Step Instruction For Cooking Goulash in American Style

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Once the meat is brown, drain the excess grease. This helps keep the goulash from being too greasy and gives it a cleaner texture.

Pro Tip: If you’re using a leaner meat (like ground turkey), there may be less grease. In that case, you can skip draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add your finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The garlic will add a lovely aroma to your kitchen—smells like love, right?

Step 3: Add the Tomato Components

Once the meat and onion are ready, it’s time to bring in the tomatoes. Pour in:

2 cups of tomato sauce
1 can of diced tomatoes (drained)
1 tablespoon of tomato paste

Stir everything together well. The tomato paste adds a nice thickness and richness to the sauce, giving your goulash that robust texture.

Step 4: Season It Up

Now comes the magic. Add your seasonings:

2 teaspoons of dried basil
1 teaspoon of oregano
1 teaspoon of salt (adjust according to taste)
½ teaspoon of black pepper
Optional: ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Give everything a good stir and let the flavors combine. The basil and oregano bring a lovely, earthy aroma, while the salt and pepper balance the overall taste.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add in your uncooked macaroni (or pasta of your choice) directly to the skillet. Pour in enough water to cover the pasta by about an inch. This allows the pasta to cook right in the sauce, absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Why cook the pasta in the sauce?
Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce ensures that it absorbs the tomato flavors, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients

If you want to elevate your Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style), you can add in some extra veggies or cheese:

Bell Peppers: Toss in 1 cup of chopped mixed bell peppers. They add a pop of color and a sweet crunch.
Frozen Peas: Add 1 cup of frozen peas towards the end of cooking for a bit of sweetness and nutrition.
Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the goulash once it’s ready. Let it melt in for that cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pasta is cooked and everything is beautifully combined, taste your goulash and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve your goulash warm with some crusty bread, a side salad, or just enjoy it on its own.

Pair it with a glass of cold iced tea or a simple lemonade. It’s the kind of meal that feels hearty and satisfying without being overwhelming. It’s about comfort, simplicity, and that unmistakable feeling of home.

Why You Should Try This Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style)

Simplicity Meets Comfort

This American-style goulash is all about ease and comfort. It doesn’t require exotic ingredients or complicated techniques. It’s about using what you have, sticking to basics, and creating something deliciously hearty.

Customizable to Your Liking

One of the best things about goulash is how versatile it is. Want it spicier? Throw in more red pepper flakes. Prefer a meatless version? Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. You can even add beans for extra protein and texture.

Family-Friendly and Budget-Conscious

Ground beef, tomato sauce, and pasta are staples in most households. This means you’re likely to have everything you need already in your pantry. Plus, it’s a meal that satisfies without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Making an Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style) is not just about putting together a meal—it’s about creating a comforting experience that warms the soul. It’s a reminder of cozy family dinners, kitchen conversations, and the simple joys of good food made with love.

This American-style goulash is easy, adaptable, and packed with flavor. It celebrates the beauty of simplicity, showcases how pantry staples can become something special, and most importantly, brings people together around a table filled with warmth and good conversation.

So next time you want something quick, filling, and satisfying, try making this goulash. It’s a meal that doesn’t just fill your stomach—it feeds the soul.

FAQs About Easy Goulash Recipe (American Style)

Q: Can I make this goulash vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat substitutes. Add beans and extra vegetables for a hearty vegetarian goulash.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! While macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you have on hand.

Q: How can I make the goulash less saucy?

If you prefer a drier goulash, reduce the water when adding it to the skillet, or let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the sauce.