One-Pot American Goulash

by

One-Pot American Goulash 🍲🔥

The Ultimate Comfort Food – Just Like Mom Made!

This hearty one-pot goulash combines savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich tomato sauce for a stick-to-your-ribs meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Your wife’s version must be amazing if you went back for three plates! Here’s the recipe with a few chef’s tips to make it even better.

📋 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained for extra juiciness!)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth (or 2 cups water + 1 beef bouillon cube)

Seasonings

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (secret flavor booster!)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Liquid Adjustments

  • 1 cup water (add more if needed)

(Optional: 2 cloves minced garlic, ½ tsp red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of red wine for depth!)

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Brown the Beef & Veggies

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown ground beef with onions over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add green peppers and cook for 2-3 mins until slightly softened.

2️⃣ Add Seasonings & Liquids

  1. Stir in:
  • Salt, pepper, paprika, Worcestershire, Italian seasoning
  • Diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and water.

3️⃣ Cook the Macaroni

  1. Add uncooked elbow macaroni, stir well.
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low-medium.
  3. Simmer 12-15 mins, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  • Add more water (½ cup at a time) if it gets too thick.

4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Let sit 5 mins to thicken slightly.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.

🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Goulash

✅ For deeper flavor, sauté garlic with the peppers.
✅ Like it spicy? Add ½ tsp cayenne or hot sauce.
✅ Make it cheesy: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar at the end.
✅ Leftovers taste even better the next day!

🍽 Serving Suggestions

  • With: Garlic bread or a simple green salad.
  • Toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, or crushed crackers.
  • Pair with: A cold beer or iced tea.

🌿 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, 1.5 cups)

  • Calories: ~350
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbs: 38g
  • Comfort factor: 12g fat

🎉 Why This Recipe Is a Keeper

✔ One pot = easy cleanup
✔ Budget-friendly (uses pantry staples!)
✔ Feeds a crowd (or provides great leftovers)

Leave a Comment