American Goulash (One-pot pasta & beef)

Hi there, food lover! 👋

When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave a warm, hearty dish that hugs the soul, American Goulash is the answer. This classic one-pot pasta and beef recipe has been a staple in American homes for generations, tracing back to its Hungarian roots but adapted with comforting, everyday pantry staples. It’s the kind of dish that brings the family together at the table, filling the kitchen with a savory aroma that says, “you’re home.”

American Goulash is beautifully simple: tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and a touch of herbs and spices, all simmered in one pot. It’s quick to make, easy to clean up afterward, and budget-friendly — a true working-family classic. 💕

What I love most is how versatile it can be: you can sneak in vegetables for extra nutrition, use different pasta shapes, or even add cheese for that creamy finish. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or making a big batch for Sunday family gatherings, this dish never fails to satisfy.

So grab your pot, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some magic together with this timeless comfort food. 🍲✨

---

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean works best)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 3 cups beef broth (or water + bouillon)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

🥄 Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes & broth: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni directly into the pot. Stir well, cover, and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
5. Finish & garnish: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt. Garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve hot: Dish into bowls and enjoy the comforting goodness of American Goulash with a slice of crusty bread on the side. 🍞✨

---

🍽️ Nutritional Information:

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420 | 🍽️ Servings: 6

• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Sugar: 6g

---

🌟 Hashtags:

#AmericanGoulash #OnePotMeals #ComfortFood #WeeknightDinner #EasyRecipes #PastaLovers #FamilyFavorites

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️