Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is the epitome of comfort food. It’s quick, easy to make, and filled with layers of savory goodness. The combination of beef, bell pepper, and garlic provides a deep, savory base, while the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes bring that classic tangy flavor. The macaroni noodles soak up all the flavorful broth, making every bite delicious. Topped with gooey shredded cheddar cheese, this dish is a family favorite that’s bound to bring everyone to the table.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 lb. ground beef (90% lean)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can petite diced tomatoes (do not drain)
- 1 ½ cups macaroni noodles, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the vegetables and beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through.
- Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, until fragrant. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add liquids and noodles: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the uncooked macaroni noodles and bay leaves.
- Simmer the goulash: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish the dish: Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the dish.
- Serve and enjoy: Spoon the goulash into bowls and serve hot, with extra cheese on top if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
- Add More Veggies: Include additional vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the goulash in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to loosen it up if it thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape, such as penne, rotini, or shells, if you prefer a different texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the goulash ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat when ready to serve.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños along with the garlic and seasonings.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner option.
Can I freeze American goulash?
Yes, you can freeze the goulash for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Can I add cheese before cooking?
While it’s best to add the cheese at the end for a creamy, melty texture, you can sprinkle some on top of the goulash while it cooks for a cheesy crust.
What other seasonings can I add to this dish?
Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or a teaspoon of sugar to balance out the acidity from the tomatoes.
How do I ensure the noodles don’t overcook?
To prevent the noodles from becoming too soft, keep an eye on the pot and stir occasionally. If the noodles are fully cooked but there’s still too much liquid, uncover the pot and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes in place of the canned petite diced tomatoes. You may need to add extra seasoning to balance the flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free as it includes macaroni noodles, but you can use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Conclusion
Nostalgic American Goulash is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. With its hearty beef, tender macaroni, and cheesy finish, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Easy to make and full of flavor, this goulash is bound to become a favorite in your family’s dinner rotation. Enjoy the comforting, delicious flavors of this classic dish!
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Nostalgic American Goulash
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Nostalgic American Goulash is the ultimate comfort food with ground beef, bell peppers, garlic, and tender macaroni in a rich tomato-based sauce. Topped with gooey cheddar cheese, this easy, one-pot dish is a family favorite that brings warmth and satisfying flavors to any dinner table.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 lb. ground beef (90% lean)
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 ½ cups beef broth
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (15 oz) can petite diced tomatoes (do not drain)
1 ½ cups macaroni noodles, uncooked
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Cook the Vegetables and Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
-
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
-
Add Liquids and Noodles: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in the uncooked macaroni noodles and bay leaves.
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Simmer the Goulash: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
-
Finish the Dish: Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the goulash into bowls and serve hot, with extra cheese on top if desired.
Notes
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Variations: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Add More Veggies: Add mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
