Ah, American Goulash! Unlike Hungarian goulash, the American version is a comforting, tomato-based pasta and beef dish—simple, hearty, and perfect for weeknights. Here’s a complete recipe:
🇺🇸 American Goulash
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1–1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 cup water or beef broth
Instructions
1. Cook the Meat
- In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, brown ground beef with onions until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes & Seasoning
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Add 1 cup water or broth.
- Bring to a simmer.
3. Cook Pasta
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni directly to the sauce.
- Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
4. Add Cheese (Optional)
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let it melt before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- One-pot meal: This recipe cooks everything in one skillet—easy cleanup.
✅ Serving suggestion: Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
If you want, I can also make a quick “5-minute recipe video script” for American Goulash that’s perfect for TikTok or Reels.
Do you want me to do that?
