Savor the hearty comfort of American Goulash, a one-pot wonder that's both delicious and budget-friendly:
- Easy & Weeknight Friendly: This dish comes together in a single pot, requiring minimal prep and cleanup. (Use pre-cooked ground beef to save even more time!)
- Budget-Stretching Hero: Ground beef is an affordable protein, and American Goulash can be easily expanded to feed a crowd. (Add extra veggies like bell peppers or frozen peas for a cost-effective boost!)
- Kid-Approved Comfort Food: The combination of pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce is a surefire hit with picky eaters. (Let them customize their bowls with shredded cheese or sour cream!)
- Flavorful & Customizable: Don't be fooled by its simplicity! Play with different spices or add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a touch of Tex-Mex flair.
Ah, American Goulash, the hearty, comforting dish that's a staple in many households across the United States. But what exactly is this delicious concoction? Let's dive in and uncover the secrets behind this beloved comfort food.
Ingredients
To whip up a pot of savory American Goulash, you'll need:
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bell peppers
- Tomato sauce
- Diced tomatoes
- Macaroni pasta
- Beef broth
- Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning)
Preparation Time
Preparation typically takes around 15 minutes.
Cooking Time
Cooking time varies but usually ranges from 30 to 40 minutes.
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in a large pot until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the pot and cook until it's no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, along with beef broth, and stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer
Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
In a separate pot, cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 6: Combine
Once the pasta is cooked, add it to the pot of goulash and stir well to incorporate.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting goodness of American Goulash!
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your American Goulash recipe! Try adding different veggies like carrots or mushrooms, or spice it up with some hot sauce for an extra kick.
Tips for Success
- Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease.
- Don't overcook the pasta; you want it to be al dente.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your American Goulash with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.
History
American Goulash has roots in Hungarian cuisine but has evolved over the years to become a distinctly American comfort food. It's a testament to the melting pot of cultures in the United States.
Nutritional Information
While American Goulash is undeniably delicious, it's also relatively high in calories and carbs due to the pasta and tomato-based sauce. However, it's a balanced meal when paired with a side of veggies.
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FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for those looking for a leaner option.
Can I make American Goulash in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply brown the beef and sauté the veggies beforehand, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze American Goulash?
Yes, American Goulash freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What's the difference between American Goulash and traditional Hungarian Goulash?
While both dishes share some similarities, traditional Hungarian Goulash typically contains more paprika and is served as a soup or stew, whereas American Goulash is thicker and heartier, often incorporating pasta.
Can I make American Goulash vegetarian?
Certainly! You can omit the ground beef and use plant-based meat alternatives or simply bulk up the dish with more veggies and beans for a satisfying vegetarian version.