When it comes to hearty, family-friendly meals, few dishes can compete with the classic American Goulash. This one-pot wonder combines lean ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender elbow macaroni, making it an economical choice that’s also quick to prepare. In this article, we will delve deep into the details of making a perfect American Goulash that your family will love.
What is American Goulash?
American Goulash differs significantly from its Hungarian counterpart. While Hungarian Goulash is a savory stew rich in paprika and vegetables, American Goulash is more like a comforting pasta dish. It typically features ground beef, tomato sauce, and pasta, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. It’s a beloved classic, especially in American households, due to its simplicity and the ability to stretch ingredients, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this recipe lies in its efficiency and flexibility. With minimal prep time and pantry staples, American Goulash can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. This makes it a perfect option for busy families or those looking to prepare a meal without extensive planning. Moreover, the ingredients can easily be adjusted based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious American Goulash, we’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (substitute with ground turkey if preferred)
- 1 Large Shallot or Small Onion, chopped
- 3 Cloves Garlic, minced or pressed
- Gluten-Free Worcestershire Sauce (about 8 shakes or ~1/2 tablespoon)
- 1 Teaspoon Seasoned Salt + extra dash
- Black Pepper, to taste
- 1½ Cups Chicken or Beef Broth
- 1 (15 oz) Can Tomato Sauce
- 1 (15 oz) Can Petite Diced Tomatoes
- 2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning (includes oregano, basil, dried parsley)
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 Cup Gluten-Free Elbow Noodles, uncooked
Preparation Steps
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s go through the cooking process step-by-step.
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the lean ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. As the meat cooks, season it with Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, and pepper to taste. This step is crucial, as it builds a flavor base for the entire dish. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Simmer the Sauce
With the beef browned, it’s time to add the remaining ingredients to create the sauce. Pour in 1½ cups of broth, the can of tomato sauce, and the petite diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and toss in the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to maintain that simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
3. Cook the Noodles
Once the sauce has simmered and the flavors have developed, it’s time to add the elbow noodles. Stir them into the sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Continue to simmer for 12-14 minutes or until the noodles are tender, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture, ensuring that the noodles absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf.
Delicious Variations
One of the most appealing aspects of American Goulash is its adaptability. Here are some fun variations to consider that can add new dimensions to this classic dish:
Cheesy American Goulash
For a delightful twist, stir in shredded cheddar cheese at the end of cooking. This transforms the dish into a creamy, mac-and-cheese-style delight that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Creamy Version
To elevate the richness, add a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a touch of tanginess that balances the flavors.
Pizza-Style Goulash
If your family loves pizza, consider a pizza-style goulash by adding mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This variation will satisfy pizza cravings without the need for delivery.
Vegetarian Additions
For those looking to incorporate more vegetables, add riced cauliflower or fresh mushrooms to the mix. Not only do these additions increase the nutrient content, but they also provide extra texture.
Chili Mac Goulash
Craving something a bit spicier? Add chili powder and canned beans to create a Chili Mac Goulash. Top it off with shredded cheddar for a comforting meal with a kick.
Italian Twist
For a more traditional Italian flavor profile, consider substituting the ground beef with Italian sausage. This variation adds a savory depth that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerator Storage
Store any leftover American Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Freezing for Later Use
To freeze, prepare the goulash up to the sauce step, then allow it to cool completely. Store it without the noodles in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the sauce, add the noodles, and cook until tender. This method preserves the flavors and ensures that your meal is as delicious as the first time you made it.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of our meals is essential, especially when feeding a family. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving of American Goulash:
- Calories: 437 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 59g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 1525mg
- Potassium: 1258mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 9g
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Vitamin A: 709 IU
- Vitamin C: 19mg
- Calcium: 86mg
- Iron: 6mg
This dish provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome meal for any family.
