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Classic American Goulash Recipe

Classic American Goulash Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

Cozy, hearty, and full of flavor, this American Goulash combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce for the ultimate one-pot comfort food.

Ingredients

Ground Beef Mixture:

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 large diced onion
  • 4 cloves minced garlic
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon beef base or bouillon
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (one petite diced)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 bay leaves

Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni noodles uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • fresh chopped Italian parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Add 2 pounds ground beef to a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Cook and brown for 7-8 minutes. Remove and drain.
  2. Saute Aromatics: Add diced onion to the pot, cook for 5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Cook the Mixture: Return beef to the pot, add water, beef base, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, seasonings, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 20 minutes.
  4. Add Noodles: Stir in macaroni noodles, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until al dente.
  5. Finish and Serve: Stir in cheddar cheese, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Leftovers: Store in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat as needed.

Nutrition