Easy Classic American Goulash Recipe: Old Fashioned Comfort Food

Craving comfort food that’s both delicious and easy to make?

Look no further! This Old Fashioned American Goulash recipe is a classic for a reason – it’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to impress without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s incredibly flavorful, with a rich tomato-based sauce that’s simmered to perfection.
• It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
• It’s budget-friendly, using simple, readily available ingredients.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
• It’s endlessly customizable, so you can adjust it to your family’s preferences.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t your average goulash! Our Classic American Goulash emphasizes a slow-simmered sauce that allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Unlike some recipes, we use a combination of ground beef and diced onions and bell peppers to create a base that’s bursting with flavor and texture. This method creates a deeper, richer sauce that’s incredibly satisfying and comforting.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound elbow macaroni pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This helps to sauté our vegetables and adds richness
• 1 teaspoon sugar – A small amount of sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions for al dente. Drain the pasta.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the goulash sauce. Stir to combine and heat through, about 5 minutes. Serve hot.

Optional Toppings/Variations

This goulash is delicious as is, but feel free to get creative!

• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese over the goulash before serving.
• Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Expert Tips

• Don’t rush the simmering process; the longer the sauce simmers, the more flavorful it will become.
• Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You might want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Make sure to drain the pasta well before adding it to the sauce to avoid a watery goulash.
• Use lean ground beef to minimize the amount of grease to drain.
• For a richer flavor, try browning the ground beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute another type of ground meat? Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken in place of ground beef. The cooking time will remain the same.
• Can I make this goulash ahead of time? Absolutely! This goulash is great for meal prep. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
• Can I freeze goulash? Yes, you can freeze goulash. Cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Can I use a different type of pasta? While elbow macaroni is traditional for goulash, you can use other small pasta shapes like small shells or ditalini.
• What if I don’t have fresh garlic? You can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for 2 cloves of fresh garlic.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ideas:

• Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Add diced carrots, celery, or zucchini to the pot with the onions and bell pepper for an extra serving of vegetables.
• Mushroom Love: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers for an earthy flavor.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in some cream cheese or ricotta cheese for an even creamier, cheesier goulash.
• Italian Twist: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a zesty kick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this comforting Classic American Goulash hot, topped with your favorite garnishes. It’s perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad, some crusty bread, or garlic bread. It’s a complete meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned American Goulash is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. With its simple ingredients and one-pot convenience, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! Share your goulash creations with us and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious and easy recipes!

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• Spicy Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
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