Classic American Goulash

Oh, how grateful I am to have such wonderful readers like you who share my love for comforting, hearty meals that bring back fond memories and create new ones. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious: Classic American Goulash. It’s a simple, one-pot wonder that has been a family favorite in many households for generations, including mine!

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Let’s dive into the goodness of this beloved American classic!

Ingredients

To get started with our classic American Goulash, you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

How to Make Classic American Goulash

Follow these steps to bring this comforting dish to your table:

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Mix in the Goodies: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, soy sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Pasta Time: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and water, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Return to a simmer, cover, and let cook for about 20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
5. Cheese It Up: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the goulash just before serving and let it melt into the hot mixture.

Helpful Tips

• Stir Frequently: To prevent the pasta from sticking, make sure to stir the goulash every few minutes while it simmers.
• Adjust Consistency: If the goulash seems too dry before the pasta is done, add a little more water. If it’s too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Substitutions/Variations

• Meat Variations: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Omit the meat and add more beans like kidney beans or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili powder or some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make goulash in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Just brown your meat and onions beforehand, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Is goulash gluten-free? As long as you use gluten-free pasta, this dish can easily be adapted to be gluten-free.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.

More Relevant Recipes

If you enjoyed this classic American Goulash, you might also love these hearty dishes:

• Grinch Cookies: A mischievously minty holiday treat.
• Chewy Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies: Perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
• Double Chocolate Chip Cookies: Twice the chocolate, twice the indulgence.
• Homemade Tortillas: Freshly made, ready for your favorite fillings.
• Christmas Lasagna: A holiday feast in every layer.

Goulash is truly a dish that promises simplicity, comfort, and flavor all in one pot. It’s perfect for any day of the week, and I can’t wait for you to try it out. Dive in, enjoy, and as always, happy cooking!

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