Savor the Magic of American Goulash - A Whimsical One-Pot Wonder

Once upon a time, in the land of comfort food and culinary delights, there was a humble dish known as American Goulash. This old-fashioned treasure, steeped in tradition and bursting with flavor, brought families together around the dinner table, eager to share stories and laughter while savoring each delightful bite.

With its roots in the melting pot of America's heartland, this scrumptious concoction weaves together the tales of generations past, the warmth of home, and the joy of a well-cooked meal. And, as if by magic, the pasta dances in harmony with the rich sauce, creating an enchanting one-pot wonder that leaves both hearts and stomachs full.

So gather round, dear friends, and prepare to embark on a whimsical journey to the realm of American Goulash - where nostalgia intertwines with savory satisfaction and culinary dreams come true.

Servings 4

Preparation Time 5 Minutes

Cooking Time 25 Minutes

Total Time 30 Minutes

Nutritional Facts

Calories 418 cal

Protein 31 g

Carbs 40 g

Fat 16 g

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ cups chopped onion
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 (14 ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8 ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce
• 1 cup low-sodium beef or chicken broth
• 1 1/4 cups whole-wheat elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

• Heat oil in a pot on medium-high.
• Add onion and beef; cook for ~5 minutes.
• Mix in garlic, spices, and seasonings; cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in tomatoes, sauce, and broth; bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
• Add macaroni; cook uncovered until tender (6-9 minutes).
• Remove from heat; let stand for 5 minutes.
• Optionally, sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.

More from My Kitchen!

What is Goulash?

Hailing from Hungary, goulash is a soup or stew that incorporates potatoes or other root vegetables, stew beef, and a generous helping of paprika. It is slow-cooked, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to intensify.

While inspired by its Hungarian counterpart, American goulash resembles more of a one-pot meal than a stew. It includes ground beef, pasta (typically macaroni), and tomatoes. As opposed to Hungarian goulash, the American version cooks rapidly, making it an ideal family-friendly choice for busy weeknights.

Both variations of goulash showcase the distinctive flavor of paprika, adding spice and warmth to the dish.

Is it Possible to Use a Different Pasta Type?

While our recipe calls for whole-wheat elbow macaroni, you can certainly substitute it with ditalini, small shells, orecchiette, or any other short pasta variety. Make sure to modify the cooking time accordingly for the chosen pasta type. You might need to keep the lid on during the process to ensure thorough cooking.

Preparing American Goulash in Advance

It's possible to prepare the entire American Goulash recipe up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container and refrigerate until needed. When you're ready to serve, reheat the dish using either the stovetop or microwave for a delicious, hassle-free meal.

The Bottom Line

American Goulash is a delightful, budget-friendly one-pot meal that brings the whole family together. Drawing inspiration from its Hungarian roots, this hearty dish offers a unique blend of flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Following this simple recipe and exploring variations with different pasta types or make-ahead options can create a memorable culinary experience that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds. So go ahead, savor the magic of American Goulash, and let it become a cherished tradition in your home.

Reading List