Description

American goulash is a rich, flavorful one-pot meal combining tender ground beef, macaroni noodles, and a savory tomato-based sauce topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or cozy gatherings. Easily made gluten-free or low-carb.

Ingredients

For the Dish:

– 2 tbsp canola or vegetable oil

– 1 medium yellow onion, diced

– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced

– 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced

– 1½ tsp sweet paprika

– 1 tsp dried oregano

– ¾ tsp kosher salt

– ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

– 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean; substitute turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles if needed)

– 1 tbsp tomato paste

– 15 oz diced tomatoes, undrained

– 15 oz tomato sauce

– 1½ cups low-sodium beef broth (substitute vegetable broth for vegetarian option)

– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for substitution)

– 1½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni (substitute gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice for dietary needs)

– 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

– 1 cup shredded medium cheddar cheese (substitute plant-based cheese for vegan option)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook for 3–4 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spatula.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil.
Add uncooked macaroni, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles soften and the sauce thickens.
Remove from heat and stir in red wine vinegar.
Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

– Use high-quality ground beef: It offers richer flavor and juicier texture compared to leaner alternatives.

– Avoid overcooking macaroni: Cook just until al dente to prevent mushiness.

– Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for longer storage; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth. Avoid microwaving to prevent mushy noodles.

– Customizations: Swap macaroni for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Add diced carrots, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition. Use smoked paprika or chili powder for added depth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course / One-Pot Meals
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 6 servings per recipe)
Calories: ~350
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 50mg