American Goulash Recipe

American Goulash is a classic comfort food that is simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a one-pot wonder filled with rich flavors, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Whether you're familiar with the dish or trying it for the first time, this guide will walk you through every step to create the perfect American Goulash. From selecting the right ingredients to nailing the perfect cooking techniques, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. So, if you're ready to make a satisfying meal that everyone will love, read on to discover how to cook American Goulash from scratch!

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What is American Goulash?

American Goulash, often referred to as "Slumgullion" in some regions, is a classic dish that brings together ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and a flavorful mix of herbs and spices. Unlike Hungarian Goulash, which typically uses stew meat and is served with a thick, paprika-infused broth, American Goulash is more of a pasta dish, similar to a meaty, tomato-based casserole. It's a quick and easy dinner option that's perfect for busy weeknights but flavorful enough to serve at a weekend gathering. Its roots go back to early American settlers who adapted the Hungarian dish into a budget-friendly, one-pot meal.

Ingredients List for American Goulash

To make a delicious and hearty American Goulash, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef (you can use lean or regular depending on your preference)
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups of elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups of water or beef broth (for extra flavor)
• 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of paprika (optional, but recommended)
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme works well)
• ½ teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (for topping, optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

These simple ingredients can be found in most pantries or easily purchased at your local grocery store. The beauty of this dish is in its flexibility – you can add more veggies or spices based on your personal taste.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best aspects of American Goulash is its versatility. If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, or if you prefer to tweak the recipe, here are a few substitution and variation ideas:

• Protein: Ground beef is traditional, but you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can easily use other pasta shapes such as rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
• Tomatoes: If you don’t have diced tomatoes, you can use crushed tomatoes, or for a chunkier sauce, use whole canned tomatoes and crush them by hand.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to increase the nutritional value of the dish. Sauté them with the onions for best results.
• Cheese: Cheddar is commonly used for topping, but you could experiment with mozzarella, Parmesan, or even Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Spices: Paprika adds a subtle warmth, but if you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

These variations allow you to tailor the dish to your liking and make it your own.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. The great thing about American Goulash is that it's made in just one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze.

1. Brown the Ground Beef
   In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. As the beef cooks, break it up with a wooden spoon. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
   Push the beef to one side of the pan and add the diced onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir everything together.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning
   Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato sauce. Stir to combine. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add Water and Pasta
   Add the water (or beef broth for added flavor) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom.
5. Simmer and Adjust Seasoning
   After the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker goulash, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
6. Optional Cheese Topping
   If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top of the goulash. Cover the pot and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though American Goulash is a simple dish, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:

• Not draining the beef: Failing to drain excess fat can make the dish too greasy. Always drain the fat after browning the meat, especially if you’re using a higher fat content ground beef.
• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to stir the dish occasionally and check the pasta as it cooks. Overcooked pasta will become mushy, so aim for a texture that’s just al dente.
• Under-seasoning: Be generous with the seasoning, especially when it comes to salt and herbs. Don’t be afraid to taste the dish as you cook and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Skipping the cheese: While the cheese topping is optional, it adds a nice creamy finish that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving American Goulash, a little thought can go a long way in enhancing the meal. Here are some ideas to help you serve and present this dish in the best way possible:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top of the dish not only adds a pop of color but also brings freshness to the rich, savory flavors.
• Serve with crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is the perfect companion to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Pair with a salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty, rich goulash.
• Add a dollop of sour cream: This might sound unconventional, but adding a spoonful of sour cream on top can give a creamy tang that balances the tomato-based sauce beautifully.

Presentation Ideas for American Goulash

While American Goulash may be a humble dish, you can still make it look visually appealing:

• Individual Servings: Serve the goulash in individual bowls or deep plates with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs on top.
• Family-Style: If you're serving a large group, you can present it in a large casserole dish. Add a layer of melted cheese on top and garnish with parsley for a more "finished" look.
• Skillet Presentation: For a rustic presentation, serve the goulash directly from the skillet or pot it was cooked in. Just make sure to clean the edges for a neat appearance!

American Goulash Recipe Tips

To ensure your goulash turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Let the pasta cook in the sauce: Cooking the pasta directly in the sauce, rather than separately, allows it to absorb the flavors of the dish, making it more flavorful.
• Use quality tomatoes: Since tomatoes are a key ingredient, using high-quality canned tomatoes can really elevate the dish.
• Customize the spice level: If you prefer a bit of heat, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze American Goulash?
   Yes, American Goulash freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Absolutely! American Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
3. Can I use different types of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as larger or smaller pasta shapes may require more or less time.
4. Is American Goulash spicy?
   Traditionally, American Goulash is not spicy, but you can add heat with red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.

Conclusion

American Goulash is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite variations, American Goulash is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors that this classic dish has to offer!

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