Why You’ll Love this American Goulash Recipe
You’ll love this American Goulash recipe for its comforting simplicity and rich flavors. It’s a dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners, where everyone gathers around the table.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its one-pot preparation, making cleanup a breeze. I find that the combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and zesty tomato sauce creates a delightful harmony of taste that appeals to all ages.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can easily tweak the spices or add vegetables to suit your preferences. As I savor each bite, I’m reminded of how a simple meal can evoke warmth and happiness, making it a favorite in my home.
Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this!
Ingredients of American Goulash
When it comes to making a warm and comforting meal, few dishes can compete with the classic American Goulash. This creamy version takes all the nostalgia of the original and adds a touch of richness that makes it even more inviting.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious one-pot wonder that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s super easy to make. Who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor?
Let’s delve into what you’ll need to get started on this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 white onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup water (or as needed to guarantee pasta gets cooked properly)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Now, while gathering these ingredients, keep in mind that freshness can make a difference. For instance, using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced can really elevate the flavor.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. They not only add extra nutrition but also enhance the dish’s texture and taste.
If you’re trying to lighten things up a bit, you could swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based substitute. Just remember, the key is to have fun with it.
Cooking is all about experimenting, right? So don’t stress too much about sticking to the list; feel free to make it your own.
How to Make American Goulash
Making Creamy American Goulash is like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s straightforward, and once you get the hang of it, you might just find yourself making it on repeat. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking, shall we?
First, grab your 2 lbs of ground beef** and toss it into a large pot or skillet** over medium-high heat. As the beef starts to brown, use your spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. This is where the magic begins—your kitchen will start to smell amazing.
After about 6 minutes, when the beef is nicely browned, add in 1 chopped white onion** and 3 minced garlic cloves. Stir it all together and let it cook for another 5-6 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, and don’t forget to drain off any excess fat**; nobody wants a greasy goulash, right?
Now for the fun part! Pour in 1 lb of elbow macaroni**, 1 cup of water, 2 (15 ounce) cans of tomato sauce, and 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans of diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of dried basil, and toss in a bay leaf** for that extra flavor boost.
Give it a good stir to combine everything, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 6-8 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente and the sauce to reduce a bit. Just keep an eye on it; if it looks too dry, you can always add a splash more water.
Once it’s done, remove the bay leaf (because nobody wants to accidentally bite into that) and if you’re feeling indulgent, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream for that creamy goodness. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and voilà! You’ve got yourself a comforting, creamy bowl of American Goulash that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
How’s that for a deliciously easy meal? Enjoy every bite and maybe even make enough to have leftovers. Trust me, goulash always tastes better the next day.
American Goulash Substitutions & Variations
While American Goulash is a classic comfort dish, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a healthier version, try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also mix in different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
If you’re gluten-free, substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. For a little kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Want to make it creamier? Instead of heavy cream, use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.
You can even experiment with different seasonings, like paprika or Italian herbs, to put your unique spin on this comforting dish. Enjoy getting creative!
What to Serve with American Goulash
After customizing your American Goulash with various substitutions and variations, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this comforting dish.
I love pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the goulash perfectly.
Garlic bread is another favorite of mine; it’s great for soaking up the sauce. Sometimes, I’ll serve it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
If you want something heartier, cornbread is a fantastic option too.
Don’t forget about a sprinkle of grated parmesan or a dollop of sour cream on top; it adds a nice touch! Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
To elevate your creamy American goulash, consider experimenting with different herbs and spices. I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
If you’re a fan of vegetables, diced bell peppers or zucchini can enhance both taste and nutrition. Don’t forget to taste as you go; adjusting salt and pepper can make a big difference.
For a creamier texture, try adding more heavy cream or even a sprinkle of cream cheese. Leftovers are fantastic, too—this dish often tastes even better the next day.
Just remember to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Enjoy your cooking adventure!