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Best Easy Classic American Goulash Recipe

Name: Best Easy Classic American Goulash Recipe
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 350 g
Ingredients: ground beef (80/20) 1 lb; elbow macaroni (uncooked) 2 cups; yellow onion (chopped) 1 medium; green bell pepper (chopped) 1 medium; garlic cloves (minced) 3 cloves; diced tomatoes (canned, undrained) 2 cups; tomato sauce 1.5 cups; water 2 cups; paprika 1 tsp; dried oregano 1 tsp; salt 1 tsp; black pepper 0.5 tsp; bay leaf 1 piece

Classic American goulash simmers ground beef, elbow macaroni, and tomatoes in a one-pot family favorite. This budget-friendly, protein-packed comfort food is quick, easy, and beloved across the Midwest.

Cook 45 min Difficulty EASY 410 kcal

#high protein #budget meal #one pot #family dinner

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

ground beef (80/20) 1 lb
elbow macaroni (uncooked) 2 cups
yellow onion (chopped) 1 medium
green bell pepper (chopped) 1 medium
garlic cloves (minced) 3 cloves
diced tomatoes (canned, undrained) 2 cups
tomato sauce 1.5 cups
water 2 cups

Seasonings/Sauce

paprika 1 tsp
dried oregano 1 tsp
salt 1 tsp
black pepper 0.5 tsp
bay leaf 1 piece

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 40 g 39%

Protein 25 g 24%

Fat 15 g 37%

Serving size 350g

Cooking steps

1

In a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for 5–7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if desired.
2

Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables soften and fragrant.
3

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom.
4

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
5

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Increase heat to medium and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this Classic American Goulash recipe?

Ground beef is the key ingredient in Classic American Goulash, delivering the dish's rich, savory flavor and signature protein boost. Combined with elbow macaroni and tomatoes, it forms the comforting base that makes this goulash a beloved family favorite.

Q. What is the most important step for perfect pasta texture in this goulash?

The crucial step is adding the uncooked elbow macaroni after simmering the beef and sauce, then simmering uncovered and stirring occasionally. This ensures the pasta absorbs the tomato flavors and cooks just to tender, preventing mushiness or sticking.

Q. How do I avoid overcooked or mushy goulash?

For the best texture, cook the macaroni uncovered and keep a close eye on it during the final 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally and test the pasta for doneness. Remove from heat as soon as the macaroni is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.

Q. What are the nutrition facts per serving for this recipe?

Each serving (350g) contains about 410 kcal, 40g carbohydrates (39% of calories), 25g protein (24%), and 15g fat (37%). This makes the dish balanced for protein and moderate in both carbs and fat, ideal for a hearty family meal.

Best Easy Classic American Goulash Recipe

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