American Goulash: A Hearty Comfort Food Classic
Savory, Satisfying, and Full of Flavor
American Goulash, often referred to simply as “goulash” in the United States, is a hearty and comforting dish that has been a favorite in American households for generations. This one-pot wonder combines ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and a blend of savory seasonings to create a flavorful and filling meal. Here’s how to make this classic American Goulash.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or any pasta of your choice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add Pasta and Broth:
- Add the uncooked pasta and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine everything.
5. Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the pasta is cooked to your liking and the sauce has thickened, remove the pot from heat. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and presentation.
7. Serve Warm:
- Scoop generous servings of American Goulash into bowls and serve it piping hot. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
Customizing Your American Goulash
Tips:
- Use lean ground beef to minimize excess fat in the dish.
- Feel free to add diced bell peppers or other vegetables like diced carrots or celery for extra texture and nutrition.
Variations:
- Some variations of American Goulash include adding kidney beans, corn, or even diced green chilies for a Tex-Mex twist.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Customization:
- Top your American Goulash with additional cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Storage:
- American Goulash makes great leftovers. Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Cook’s Note:
- American Goulash is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it as a simple weeknight meal or dress it up for a special occasion, it’s a comforting classic that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for savory, homestyle goodness.
