American Goulash
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion
diced
- 1 green bell pepper
diced
- 6 garlic cloves
finely chopped
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 28oz tomato sauce
- 28oz canned diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 2 cups freshly shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large heavy bottomed pot over medium high heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sauté until they start to get soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- 2
Add in ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring from time to time, until it is no longer pink. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili flakes, salt and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes.
- 3
Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce and bay leaves. Bring to a low boil, reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- 4
Remove bay leaves. Return the sauce to a boil, then stir in macaroni pasta, and cook till just a bit firmer than your desired tenderness, about 15-20 minutes.
- 5
Stir in cheese. Cook 2-3 minutes, till it has melted and mixed in well.
- 6
Serve immediately.
American Goulash
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Based on 10 ratings
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About this Recipe
Searching for that ultimate bowl of comforting, stick-to-your-ribs American Goulash? This recipe brings classic nostalgic flavors right to your kitchen, perfect for feeding a crowd or cozy family dinners.
What makes this American Goulash stand out is its deep, savory tomato sauce, built on a foundation of seasoned ground beef, aromatic vegetables like onion and green bell pepper, and a thoughtful blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, and red chili flakes. The generous amounts of both tomato sauce and canned diced tomatoes, fortified with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, create a rich, layered flavor that simmers beautifully with tender elbow macaroni, embodying true comfort food.
You can expect a hearty, deeply satisfying dish with a rich, savory tomato sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of tender elbow macaroni. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of seasoned ground beef, the subtle sweetness of bell pepper and onion, and a hint of warmth from the chili flakes and paprika. Topped with a generous helping of freshly shredded cheddar cheese, it’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and reminds you of simpler times, making it an instant family favorite.
Feel free to customize this classic American Goulash to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the red chili flakes. For extra depth, a dash of soy sauce can stand in for Worcestershire sauce in a pinch. Consider adding other vegetables like diced carrots or celery alongside the onion and bell pepper for more texture and nutrients. While cheddar is traditional, a blend of Monterey Jack or Colby cheese also melts wonderfully on top.
This American Goulash is ideal for weeknight family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion calling for a truly satisfying, fuss-free meal. Serve it with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for a complete and comforting experience.