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Overhead view of pot of goulash by bread and small bowl of parmesan cheese.
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American Goulash Recipe

This easy American Goulash recipe combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and savory tomato sauce in one pot. Ready in under an hour, it's perfect for busy weeknights and feeds a family of 8. Includes storage tips and variations.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: american goulash, american goulash recipe
Servings: 8
Calories: 408kcal
Author: LaKita Anderson

Equipment

  • 1 large pot or Dutch oven
  • 1 wooden spoon

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 15 ounces (1 can) tomato sauce
  • 15 ounces (1 can) diced tomatoes
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 16 ounces (1 box) elbow macaroni

Instructions

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the 1 pound ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
    Overhead view of cooked ground beef in white dutch oven.
  • Add 1 large diced onion and 1 large bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in 3 cloves garlic and cook 1 more minute.
    Overhead view of ground beef, onion garlic, and bell pepper in white dutch oven.
  • Stir in 15 ounces tomato sauce, 15 ounces diced tomatoes, 3 tablespoons tomato paste, 4 cups beef broth, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil.
    Overhead view of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes added to pot with the other ingredients.
  • Add the 16 ounces elbow macaroni, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm with shredded cheese or fresh parsley if desired.
    Overhead view of finished goulash in large white dutch oven.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
  • Cheesy Goulash: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella at the end.
  • Consistency: Add more broth for a soupier goulash, or simmer uncovered longer for a thicker version.

Nutrition

Calories: 408kcal | Carbohydrates: 53g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 1211mg | Potassium: 774mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 475IU | Vitamin C: 29mg | Calcium: 79mg | Iron: 4mg
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