Step into the realm of cherished family dinners with our American Goulash—a hearty and comforting dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. This recipe, a timeless classic, invites you to explore the rich flavors of ground beef, tender macaroni, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Join us on this culinary journey as we guide you through crafting a pot of American Goulash that not only warms the soul but also evokes a sense of nostalgia with every delicious bite.
Ingredients:
For the Goulash Base:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Macaroni:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
Instructions:
Step 1 – Sautéing Symphony:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
Step 2 – Aromatic Ambiance:
- Add finely chopped onions, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
Step 3 – Tomato Tapestry:
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Mix well to create a flavorful tomato-based sauce.
Step 4 – Seasonal Serenade:
- Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 5 – Macaroni Melody:
- Pour uncooked elbow macaroni into the pot, stirring to combine. The macaroni will cook in the flavorful goulash broth.
Step 6 – Simmering Symphony:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the macaroni is cooked through.
Step 7 – Taste Test and Adjust:
- Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Step 8 – Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the American Goulash into bowls and savor the heartwarming combination of savory beef, tender macaroni, and a robust tomato sauce.
Cook Notes:
- For a deeper flavor, you can let the American Goulash simmer on low heat for an extended period, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
Additional Tips:
- Experiment with different colors of bell peppers for a visually appealing and diverse flavor profile.
- Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of freshness.
Variations:
Mushroom Magic: Enhance the goulash by adding sliced mushrooms during the sautéing step. The mushrooms bring an earthy depth to the dish.
Spicy Sensation: Infuse some heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the goulash for a spicier kick.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a gooey, cheesy indulgence.
Keto Version:
Keto-Friendly Beef Bliss: Choose ground beef with a higher fat content to align with keto preferences. The added fat contributes to a rich and satisfying goulash.
Keto Pasta Alternatives: Replace traditional macaroni with keto-friendly pasta alternatives such as shirataki noodles or spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.
Keto Tomato Tactics: Opt for canned tomatoes with no added sugars to maintain a keto-compatible goulash. Check the labels on tomato paste and sauces for hidden sugars.
Low-Carb Version:
Cauliflower Confetti: Substitute the elbow macaroni with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. The cauliflower absorbs the flavors of the goulash beautifully.
Broccoli Brilliance: Incorporate chopped broccoli into the goulash for added texture and a nutrient-packed twist while keeping the carb content in check.
Zoodle Zest: Replace macaroni with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) for a low-carb, vegetable-based alternative that maintains the essence of the dish.
As you savor the comforting layers of our American Goulash, appreciate the simplicity and heartiness that define this classic dish. Whether you follow the traditional version, explore variations, or tailor it to specific dietary needs, this recipe embodies the joy of wholesome, family-friendly meals.
Share the warmth of American Goulash with friends and family, making it a beloved addition to your regular dinner rotation. As you enjoy the robust combination of beef, macaroni, and savory tomato sauce, relish the adaptability that allows this dish to cater to diverse tastes. It isn’t just a meal; it’s a journey—a journey into the heart of home cooking, where every bite carries the flavors of tradition and the comfort of shared moments around the table. Let our American Goulash become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire, promising satisfaction and nostalgia with every spoonful.
