American goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal that combines ground beef, tomato sauce, pasta, and cheese. It’s a staple dish in many American households, known for its simplicity, delicious flavors, and ease of preparation. Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, which is a slow-cooked beef stew, American goulash is quick to prepare and features a more pasta-based profile.
In this article, we’ll explore the essential ingredients of American goulash, how to cook it, popular variations, and some helpful cooking tips. If you’re interested in trying a straightforward American goulash recipe, check out this easy American goulash recipe for a quick weeknight meal.
What is American Goulash?
American goulash is a classic, quick-cooking dish that typically includes ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese. It’s a simple yet filling meal that comes together in one pot, making it a favorite for busy families. Unlike the rich and paprika-laden Hungarian goulash, the American version is more similar to a pasta stew or American chop suey, with a tomato-based sauce as its foundation.
For a better understanding of how American goulash differs from other goulash recipes, you can read more about common goulash cooking mistakes, which provides insight into perfecting both Hungarian and American versions.
Core Ingredients in American Goulash
1. Ground Beef
Ground beef is the main protein in American goulash. It provides a savory base for the dish and is typically browned at the start of the cooking process.
- Choosing the Meat: Ground beef is preferred, but you can also substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.
- Browning the Beef: This step is important to build a flavorful base. Brown the beef until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.
2. Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes
The tomato sauce and diced tomatoes are crucial for creating the rich, tangy base of American goulash. They give the dish its signature tomato flavor and provide moisture for the pasta.
- Tomato Sauce: A can of tomato sauce gives the dish body and helps the pasta cook to perfection.
- Diced Tomatoes: These add texture and a slightly fresher taste to the sauce, balancing the richness of the beef.
3. Macaroni Pasta
Elbow macaroni is traditionally used in American goulash, although other types of small pasta like penne or rotini can be substituted.
- Why Macaroni? Macaroni is small and cooks quickly, making it perfect for one-pot meals.
- Cooking the Pasta: The pasta is cooked directly in the sauce, which allows it to absorb all the rich flavors from the tomatoes and beef.
4. Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese adds creaminess and a sharp bite to the dish. It’s typically folded in at the end to create a silky, cheesy texture.
- Melting the Cheese: After the pasta is fully cooked, fold in the cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce, adding richness to the overall dish.
Additional Ingredients and Seasonings
1. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic are essential aromatics that form the flavor base for the dish. These ingredients are usually sautéed with the ground beef at the beginning of the cooking process.
- Onions: Add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic: Provides a fragrant, slightly spicy flavor that complements the beef and tomatoes.
2. Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce is added to the tomato base to give the dish a savory, umami flavor that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Why Worcestershire Sauce? It adds a complex flavor profile that enhances the richness of the ground beef and tomatoes.
3. Italian Seasoning
A mix of Italian herbs such as oregano, basil, and thyme gives the dish a familiar, comforting flavor that complements the tomato-based sauce.
- Italian Herbs: These seasonings provide warmth and a Mediterranean flavor that works well with the pasta and tomatoes.
4. Paprika and Black Pepper
Spices like paprika and black pepper add a mild kick and warmth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering it.
- Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smokiness.
- Black Pepper: Enhances the dish with a bit of heat and complexity.
Variations of American Goulash
1. Adding Vegetables
Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and carrots can increase the nutritional value of American goulash while also adding flavor and texture.
- Bell Peppers: Provide a sweet crunch that complements the richness of the beef.
- Mushrooms: Add an earthy flavor and meaty texture, making the dish even heartier.
- Carrots: Bring a natural sweetness and extra texture to the sauce.
2. Using Different Meats
While ground beef is the traditional choice, other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage can be used for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Ground Turkey: A leaner alternative that absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
- Sausage: Adds a spicier, more robust flavor to the dish.
3. Vegetarian American Goulash
To make a vegetarian version of American goulash, substitute the ground beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Mushrooms: Act as a meat substitute with their rich, umami flavor.
- Lentils: Provide a protein-packed option that soaks up the flavors of the sauce.
How to Cook American Goulash
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Start by browning ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onions and garlic, and cook until the onions are softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the Tomatoes and Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce, followed by the seasonings like Italian herbs, paprika, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the elbow macaroni directly into the pot and cook it in the tomato sauce. Stir occasionally, and let the pasta absorb the flavors of the sauce as it cooks.
- Fold in the Cheese: Once the pasta is al dente, remove the pot from heat and fold in the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the goulash hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for the Perfect American Goulash
- Brown the Beef Well: Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly to build a rich, flavorful base for the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add the pasta at the right time and cook it until al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- Simmer for Flavor: Let the sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes before adding the pasta to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the dish a stronger flavor, enhancing the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is American goulash made of?
American goulash is typically made of ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and cheddar cheese, along with seasonings like Italian herbs and paprika.
2. How long does it take to cook American goulash?
From start to finish, American goulash typically takes about 30 minutes to prepare. This includes browning the beef, simmering the sauce, and cooking the pasta.
3. Can I use different pasta in American goulash?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli for a different texture.
4. Can I freeze American goulash?
Yes, American goulash freezes well. Simply allow it to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth to refresh the sauce.
5. Is American goulash the same as Hungarian goulash?
No, is different from Hungarian goulash. The American version is a one-pot meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta, while Hungarian goulash is a paprika-based beef stew typically served with potatoes or dumplings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making American Goulash
1. Overcooking the Pasta
Adding the pasta too early or cooking it for too long can result in a mushy texture. To avoid this, cook the pasta until it’s just al dente, and serve immediately after folding in the cheese.
2. Not Browning the Beef
Skipping the browning step will lead to a less flavorful dish. Browning the beef caramelizes the proteins and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
3. Adding Too Much Liquid
Too much broth or water can make the goulash soupy. If you accidentally add too much liquid, let the sauce simmer uncovered to reduce it to the desired consistency.
Conclusion
Is a versatile, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and customize. With its simple list of ingredients—ground beef, tomato sauce, macaroni, and cheddar cheese—this one-pot meal is a crowd-pleaser perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try variations with different meats, vegetables, or seasonings, American goulash is sure to become a favorite in your home.
By following the tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can make the perfect American goulash every time. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this timeless dish!