🥄 Introduction: American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni Recipe
Did you know that American Goulash has nothing to do with traditional Hungarian goulash? This hearty dish was born in 20th-century Midwestern kitchens, combining pantry staples into a one-pot wonder. And guess what? It’s been loved by families, students, and meal-preppers ever since.
Why does this dish rock? It’s simple, filling, flavorful, and made with elbow macaroni—an all-American classic. Ready to cook history in a single pot? Let’s dive in.
🧪 Why This Recipe Works
Balanced Flavors: The tangy tomato base complements the richness of the beef.
Perfect Texture: Simmering the pasta right in the sauce ensures tender, flavorful noodles.
Science-Backed Tips: Browning the beef triggers the Maillard reaction for deeper flavor. Simmering keeps everything moist without overcooking the macaroni.
🍲 How to Make American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni
🕒 Quick Overview
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Serves: 6
🛒 Key Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Lean (85/15) for best flavor and texture |
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups | Cooked directly in sauce |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium | Yellow or white |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | Fresh for bold flavor |
| Tomato sauce | 2 cups | Smooth, no added sugar |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (14 oz) | Adds chunkiness and depth |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Can sub with vegetable broth |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing onions and beef |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Smoked if desired |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Or a mix of oregano and basil |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust after simmering |
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and stir until fragrant.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef: Add ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
3️⃣ Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4️⃣ Add Broth and Pasta: Stir in beef broth and elbow macaroni. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5️⃣ Taste & Finish: Once pasta is tender and sauce thickened, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar or fresh parsley.
American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Notes: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option
- 1 medium onion chopped (Notes: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic minced (Notes: Fresh garlic provides bold aroma and flavor)
- 1 can 14.5-ounce diced tomatoes (Notes: Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist)
- 1 cup beef broth Notes: For a richer flavor; substitute with chicken broth if preferred
- 1 teaspoon paprika Notes: Adds mild smokiness and color
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme Notes: Complements beef and tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste Notes: Season according to your preference
- 1 cup elbow macaroni Notes: Cook until tender but not overdone
- Grated cheddar cheese for serving optional (Notes: Adds a creamy, cheesy finish)
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft (about 3 minutes). Add garlic and stir until fragrant.
- 2️⃣ Brown the Beef: Add ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- 3️⃣ Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- 4️⃣ Add Broth and Pasta: Stir in beef broth and elbow macaroni. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5️⃣ Taste & Finish: Once pasta is tender and sauce thickened, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, optionally topped with shredded cheddar or fresh parsley.
💡 Recipe Notes & Expert Tips
- Use smoked paprika for a bolder, deeper flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will keep absorbing sauce even after cooking.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or a pat of butter at the end.
🛠️ Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Reason | Fix |
| Pasta too mushy | Overcooked in sauce | Reduce simmer time; taste-test early |
| Too watery | Excess broth or short simmer time | Simmer longer uncovered |
| Bland flavor | Under-seasoning | Boost with more spices, salt, or garlic |
| Sauce too thick | Over-evaporation of liquid | Add a splash of broth or water |
😍 Why You’ll Love This American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni
- ✔ Rich, Meaty Flavor – Every bite bursts with savory satisfaction.
- ✔ 1-Pot Convenience – Fewer dishes, more enjoyment.
- ✔ Customizable – Add veggies, cheese, or heat to make it yours.
Compared to traditional goulash, this version is quicker and simpler—ideal for busy weeknights. Cook once, eat twice, and still crave more!
“1-pot convenience saves time and reduces dishes—a huge win for busy home cooks.”
🌿 Healthy Cooking Tips
“Swap in whole wheat pasta for more fiber (Harvard School of Public Health on whole grains).”
Make it lighter:
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra fiber.
- Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or chickpea macaroni.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
❓ What Is American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni?
It’s not your grandma’s Hungarian goulash—it’s a distinctly American invention. Think of it as the love child of pasta, chili, and meat sauce. Simple, saucy, satisfying.
Ever wonder why elbow macaroni? Its curves hold sauce perfectly—yum in every bite.
“Ever wonder why elbow macaroni? Its curves hold sauce perfectly—yum in every bite.”
🍽️ What to Serve with American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni
- Side Dish: Garlic bread or roasted green beans.
- Drink Pairing: A glass of red wine or iced tea.
- Extra Toppings: Shredded cheddar, sour cream, or green onions.
🔥 Top Tips for Perfecting this Recipe
- Use fresh garlic, not powder—it makes a difference.
- Simmer uncovered to let the sauce thicken naturally.
- Add cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
👨👩👧👦 Cooking for a Crowd
- Double or triple ingredients.
- Use a Dutch oven or stock pot.
- Serve with a topping bar: shredded cheese, parsley, red pepper flakes.
👶 Kid-Friendly Version
- Reduce spices and use mild seasonings.
- Serve with fun pasta shapes.
- Add cheese on top for extra appeal.
🎨 Creative Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- Vegan Option: Use lentils and veggie broth instead of beef.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta; double-check broth and sauce labels.
🍳 Best Cooking Tools & Equipment
- Large non-stick or cast iron pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Ladle for serving
Time-saving gadget? Try an electric skillet for faster, even cooking.
❄️ Storing and Reheating Tips
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Instructions |
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Microwave 2-3 minutes or stovetop warm-up |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight, reheat on medium heat |
❓ FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
✔ Yes! Prep and store for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni?
✔ Absolutely. Freeze in airtight containers for 2–3 months.
What’s the best pan for cooking this dish?
✔ A deep non-stick or cast iron skillet works best.
Can I make it without beef?
✔ Sure! Try lentils, mushrooms, or ground turkey instead.
How do I thicken the sauce?
✔ Simmer longer or add 1 tbsp tomato paste.
Can I cook the pasta separately?
✔ You can, but cooking it in-sauce boosts flavor.
🔗 Conclusion & More Recipes to Explore
This Easy 1-Pot American Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni recipe brings nostalgia, flavor, and practicality to your table. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or batch meal prep, it delivers comfort with ease.
Try next:
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This comforting chicken meatloaf is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. With similar hearty flavors and easy prep, it’s another recipe your readers will love after trying the goulash! - 🍳 How to Make a Perfect Sweet Breakfast Recipe in 10 Minutes
If your readers are looking for something equally delicious but for breakfast, this sweet breakfast recipe is quick and satisfying. It’s great for mornings when you need a fast meal that still packs flavor! - 🍔 Homemade Cereal Bars at Home in 5 Easy Steps
For something a little lighter and perfect as a snack, these homemade cereal bars are quick to make and full of flavor. It’s an ideal recipe for those who love easy-to-make comfort foods.
Share Your Thoughts & Rate This Recipe!
💬 Have you tried this goulash? Share your twist in the comments! ⭐ Don’t forget to rate the recipe and help others find it too. Let’s make meal time memorable—one bite at a time.