When you're looking for a dish that's both satisfying and simple to prepare, goulash often comes to mind. You might appreciate its roots in Hungarian cuisine, but it's interesting to see how the American version has adapted over time. With its mix of ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, goulash can easily become a staple in your kitchen. However, there's much more to consider when crafting the perfect recipe, especially when it comes to customizing it to suit your taste and dietary needs. What variations might you want to explore?
Key Takeaways
- Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a pot, seasoning with salt and pepper for added flavor.
- Add 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of tomato sauce, and seasonings; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in 2 cups of elbow macaroni, cover, and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes until tender.
- For a creamy texture, mix in shredded cheese just before serving and adjust the consistency as needed.
- Customize your goulash by adding vegetables, using different proteins, or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste.
History
Goulash has a rich history that traces back to Hungary, where it was originally a simple stew made by shepherds using whatever meat and vegetables were on hand.
By the 9th century, it became a staple of Hungarian cuisine, often featuring paprika for its distinct flavor.
As it traveled to the United States, goulash evolved into what we now know as American Goulash—a convenient one-pot meal.
This version typically includes ground beef, macaroni, and tomato sauce, appealing to diverse culinary preferences.
Its affordability and ease of preparation have made American Goulash a favorite for family dinners and potlucks, showcasing how a simple dish can adapt and thrive in different cultures while still bringing people together.
Recipe
Goulash is a classic comfort food that brings together the heartiness of ground beef and the satisfying texture of elbow macaroni in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This one-pot dish isn't only easy to make but also a favorite among families for its simplicity and deliciousness.
Perfect for busy weeknights, it allows for quick preparation and minimal cleanup, making it a go-to meal for those looking to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
To prepare goulash, you'll start by browning the ground beef and onions, which infuses the dish with rich flavors. Once the meat is cooked, you'll add in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, followed by seasonings and the elbow macaroni. The entire mixture simmers together, letting the pasta absorb all the savory goodness while cooking to tender perfection.
This dish is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite additions for a unique twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or additional vegetables (like bell peppers or zucchini)
To cook the goulash, begin by browning the ground beef and chopped onion in a large pot over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Next, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, and salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil before adding the elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the sauce.
Extra Tips: If you want to enhance the creaminess of your goulash, consider stirring in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
For added nutrition, feel free to incorporate chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach into the mix, giving the dish a colorful and healthy twist.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months for later enjoyment. Enjoy your goulash!
Cooking Steps
To start making your goulash, you'll sear the beef until it's nicely browned, then add in the tomatoes and seasonings for a rich flavor.
After that, let it boil until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Finally, stir in the cheese just before serving for that delicious, creamy finish.
Step 1. Sear Beef Until Browned
Heat a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat until it's hot enough for searing.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning and prevent clumping.
Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns a deep brown color, signaling it's fully cooked.
For an easy goulash, season the beef with salt and pepper during the browning process to enhance its flavor.
Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
This step is crucial for a rich, savory taste.
Now that your beef is perfectly browned, you're ready to move on to the next step of adding tomatoes and seasonings!
Step 2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Once your beef is nicely browned, it's time to build a flavorful base for your goulash.
Start by adding canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the skillet, creating a rich flavor that'll elevate your dish. Pour in a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the umami notes.
Next, sprinkle in Italian seasoning, including oregano and basil, along with seasoned salt and bay leaves. These seasonings will infuse your goulash with aromatic goodness.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even distribution of the seasonings and prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
Enjoy the delightful scents filling your kitchen! Additionally, consider adding fermented vegetables as a side to boost the health benefits of your meal.
Step 3. Boil Until Tender
As the simmering reaches its peak, it's time to stir in the elbow macaroni, allowing it to soak up all the delicious flavors of the goulash.
Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this cooking time, keep an eye on the macaroni, as you'll want to check for tenderness.
Taste a piece to ensure it's cooked to your liking. If the mixture starts to look too dry, don't hesitate to add a bit more broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.
Once everything is perfectly tender, remember to remove any bay leaves before serving, enhancing the dish's flavor without risking an unpleasant bite.
Enjoy your goulash!
Step 4. Stir in Cooked Noodles
After the sauce has simmered and the flavors meld beautifully, stir in the cooked noodles, making sure they're well-coated with the rich sauce.
Add them to the pot about 12-14 minutes before serving, allowing the noodles to absorb the delicious flavors.
Gently stir the mixture to ensure the noodles don't stick together, achieving an even distribution of sauce throughout.
If the goulash looks too thick, don't hesitate to splash in some broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Before serving, remember to discard any bay leaves, as they're not meant to be eaten.
This final step ensures your goulash is ready to delight everyone at the table! Enjoy your hearty and flavorful dish!
Step 5. Add Cheese Before Serving
With the cooked noodles now perfectly blended into the rich sauce, it's time to elevate your goulash by adding cheese.
Stir in about 1 to 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving. Make sure your goulash is hot; this helps the cheese melt evenly, creating a deliciously creamy texture.
Depending on your personal preference, you can adjust the amount of cheese to suit your taste. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing in variations like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
After adding the cheese, let the goulash sit for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich, cheesy, and full of comforting goodness.
Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
While you might be busy during the week, American Goulash offers a delicious solution that fits right into your schedule. This easy Goulash Recipe is a one-pot wonder that combines hearty ground beef, elbow macaroni, and rich tomato flavors into a comforting meal.
In just 30-40 minutes, you can serve a dish that yields about 8 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With approximately 388 calories per serving, it provides a balanced option for your weeknight meals.
Plus, you can easily customize it with variations of goulash by adding extra vegetables, different meats, or cheese. Dive into this classic American comfort food and enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal fuss!
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In the vast and diverse world of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, Olivia has found her calling. As an author and a dedicated coffee and tea aficionado, her work for Cappuccino Oracle reflects her profound love and understanding of the intricate complexities found within these beverages. Olivia’s passion for the subject serves as both a catalyst for her creativity and a connection point with her audience.
