I can’t tell you how many times Classic American Goulash has saved me from a busy weeknight crisis! You know those nights when you get home, and nothing seems more appealing than cozying up on the couch but instead, you have a family to feed? That’s when I turn to this trusty recipe! It’s a hearty, one-pot dish that’s not only easy to make but also brings back warm memories of family dinners and laughter around the table.
Growing up, goulash was a staple in my house. My mom would whip it up on chilly evenings, and the enchanting aroma of beef and spices simmering on the stove was the best way to welcome us home from school. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! This recipe is great for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping, plus you can customize it to your taste. Let’s dive into making this delicious dish!
What’s in Classic American Goulash?
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish and gives it that classic hearty flavor. I usually go for lean ground beef so it’s not overly greasy—nobody likes a puddle of fat at the bottom of their bowl!
Onion: A sweet onion adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the dish, making it fragrant and flavorful. Yellow onions work wonderfully, but if you have some white or red onions on hand, feel free to use them.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! It provides that lovely aromatic backdrop that enhances all the other flavors. Trust me; using fresh garlic makes a world of difference!
Bell Peppers: I often throw in bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch. Red or green—whatever I have in the fridge! They pair beautifully with the beef and give the goulash a refreshing bite.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are the key to creating a rich sauce without any fuss. When you use these, you’re adding both moisture and acidity, which help balance the flavors.
Tomato Sauce: This gives the goulash its rich, tomatoey base. If I’m feeling a bit adventurous, I sometimes use a spicy tomato sauce for an extra kick.
Pasta: Most goulash recipes call for elbow macaroni, which absorbs the sauce perfectly! However, you can swap it out with any pasta shape you have on hand.
Beef Broth: Using beef broth instead of water adds extra richness to the final dish. However, low-sodium broth is a good option if you’re watching your salt intake.
Seasonings: An array of seasonings like salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika will make your goulash sing! You can adjust them to your liking—sometimes I like to add a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
Is Classic American Goulash Good for You?
While Classic American Goulash is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider health factors. This dish packs quite a punch when it comes to comfort food!
Ground Beef: While beef provides a good source of protein, it can be high in saturated fats. Opting for lean ground beef can help reduce this. I sometimes use ground turkey for a lighter version!
Pasta: A typical goulash recipe is made with white pasta, which isn’t the most nutritious option. I like to swap in whole wheat pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
Veggies: With the inclusion of onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, you’re definitely sneaking in some veggies! They provide vitamins and minerals, which is a big win for such a hearty dish.
In moderation and with mindful ingredient choices, Classic American Goulash can definitely fit into a balanced diet!
Classic American Goulash Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 2 cups elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta)
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese (for topping)
This recipe serves about 6 people, perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or meal prep!
How to Make Classic American Goulash?
1. In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned—about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once browned, stir in the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for a few more minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Next, add the elbow macaroni, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir and bring everything to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the pasta to be cooked and for the flavors to meld together.
6. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking so it can melt into the goulash.
7. Serve hot in bowls, and enjoy!
Delicious Variations on Classic Goulash
– If you want to lighten up your goulash even further, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
– Add additional veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrition!
– Swap out the pasta for quinoa or another whole grain if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
– For a kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños!
I can’t stress enough how much fun and joy this Classic American Goulash recipe brings to my kitchen. It’s like a warm embrace on a plate! So, why not give it a try? I hope you create as many happy memories with it as I have! And please, share your experience or variations—the kitchen is always better with friends!
