Bring a taste of nostalgia to your dinner table with this Classic American Goulash. This hearty, one-pot meal is a comforting blend of savory beef, tender pasta, and flavorful tomatoes. It’s a simple, satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 green pepper, seeds removed and chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) stewed tomatoes (undrained)
- 3 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it begins to brown, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped green pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Continue to cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, undrained stewed tomatoes, water, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix everything well, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Gently mix the pasta to make sure it’s entirely immersed in the liquid. Place a lid on the pot and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the goulash simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the pasta is cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the Classic American Goulash hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated cheese if desired.
Conclusion:
This Classic American Goulash is a comforting, budget-friendly meal that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its tender pasta, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce, it’s a dish that brings warmth to any table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this goulash is a timeless recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.