How to Make the Best Goulash: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

Looking for a recipe that brings back the warm, comforting flavors of childhood? This classic Goulash recipe is the perfect dish for a cozy night in, a family dinner, or even a potluck gathering. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this American Goulash is packed with ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce that everyone will love. It’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

What is American Goulash?

If you’re new to Goulash, you’re in for a treat! This American version of Goulash is a hearty and flavorful stew that’s different from its Hungarian counterpart. American Goulash is characterized by its use of ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a sweet tomato-based sauce. It’s a one-pot wonder, simplifying both cooking and cleanup. This recipe is not only perfect for a comforting family meal but also a fantastic option for potlucks and parties because it serves a crowd and is incredibly economical. Plus, it’s a guaranteed hit with picky eaters – kids especially adore this savory and slightly sweet pasta dish!

Goulash is a delightful combination of browned ground beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, and tossed with macaroni noodles. Adding a touch of cheddar cheese at the end creates a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that elevates this simple dish to another level of deliciousness.

Goulash Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this comforting Goulash recipe:

• Onion: A yellow or white onion provides a foundational savory flavor.
• Green Bell Pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and a slight crunch. Feel free to experiment with red or orange bell peppers for a sweeter variation.
• Ground Beef: The heart of the dish, providing protein and rich flavor. Lean ground beef is recommended to minimize excess grease.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent aroma and depth of flavor.
• Tomato Sauce: Forms the base of the sauce, contributing to the classic Goulash flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Petite diced tomatoes offer a finer texture, but regular diced tomatoes will also work.
• Beef Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the beefy flavor profile.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A secret ingredient for depth, providing umami and complexity to the sauce.
• Seasoned Salt: A simple way to boost overall flavor. Adjust seasoning to your preference.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the tomato sauce and adds a classic Italian-American touch.
• Bay Leaves: Infuse a subtle herbal aroma into the Goulash during simmering; remember to remove them before serving.
• Dry Macaroni Noodles: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells can be substituted.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is recommended for its robust flavor that melts beautifully into the hot Goulash, creating a creamy finish.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Goulash

Follow these simple steps to make delicious Goulash at home:

1. Brown the Beef and Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add Garlic and Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add dry macaroni noodles to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Cheese it Up: Remove bay leaves. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle hot Goulash into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Goulash Cooking Tips and Recipe Variations:

• Use a Large Pot: This recipe makes a generous amount, so ensure you have a pot large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
• Pasta Alternatives: If you don’t have macaroni, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even broken spaghetti.
• Leaner Protein Option: For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for ground beef.
• Boost with Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding extra vegetables. Corn, peas, diced carrots, green beans, or even baby spinach stirred in at the end are all excellent additions.
• Creamier Goulash: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese at the very end, after removing from heat.
• Soupy Goulash: If you prefer a soupier consistency, simply add an extra cup or two of beef broth.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a spicier Goulash.
• Make it Ahead: Goulash is a great make-ahead meal. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing Goulash: Goulash freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

This easy Goulash recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to share at your next gathering, this classic American Goulash will surely become a new family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of homemade Goulash!