ground beef american goulash recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best ground beef american goulash recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic American goulash recipe with you all. This hearty dish has been a staple in my family for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The rich flavors of the ground beef, combined with the tangy tomato sauce and the perfect balance of spices, make this recipe a true comfort food.

I remember growing up, my mom would make this for us on special occasions, like holidays and family gatherings, and it was always the highlight of the meal. Even now, as an adult, I still love making this for my own family and friends because it’s just that good. As I started cooking more and more, I realized that goulash is actually a pretty versatile dish.

You can serve it over egg noodles, like we do in our house, or with some crusty bread on the side. Some people like to add potatoes or other veggies to make it more substantial, but I think that’s where the magic happens – when you get to customize it to your taste preferences. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that the key to a great goulash is in the browning of the ground beef.

You want to get that nice caramelized flavor going before you add in all the other ingredients. It makes such a difference in the overall flavor profile of the dish. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m proud to be carrying on that tradition.

It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that never fails to impress.

Ground Beef American Goulash

4.6 from 858 votes

A hearty and comforting dish featuring ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3Drain excess fat.
4Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet.
5Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.
7Bring to a simmer.
8Add elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce.
9Cover and reduce heat to low.
10Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11Macaroni should be al dente and the sauce should have thickened slightly.
12If the sauce is too thick, add a little water.
13If it is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes.
14Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Medium pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Serve with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it stores – you can easily refrigerate or freeze leftovers for later use. When reheating, just make sure to stir everything together so that all the flavors are evenly distributed.

For serving ideas, try pairing goulash with some crusty bread or over egg noodles – both are delicious options! And don’t even get me started on leftovers – this recipe makes enough for at least two meals for my family of four.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef American Goulash

Q: What is goulash?

Goulash is a classic American dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s often served over egg noodles or with some crusty bread on the side.

Q: Can I use leaner ground beef?

Yes, you can use leaner ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it might not be as rich and flavorful as using regular ground beef.

Q: How long does goulash take to cook?

The cooking time will depend on how quickly you brown the ground beef and how long you let it simmer. In general, you’re looking at about 20-30 minutes total.

Q: Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make goulash in a slow cooker! Simply brown the ground beef in a pan first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q: Is goulash healthy?

Goulash can be a relatively healthy option if you use lean ground beef and plenty of vegetables. Just be mindful of portion sizes and try not to add too much salt or sugar.

Similar Posts