Classic One-Pot American Goulash

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Rich, hearty, and irresistibly comforting, Classic One-Pot American Goulash is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner. It blends tender elbow macaroni with seasoned ground beef, simmered in a tomato-based sauce and topped with melted cheddar cheese. This dish comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze and flavor a guarantee.

This cozy classic is beloved for its simplicity and nostalgic appeal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this goulash is a budget-friendly, filling solution that doesn’t compromise on taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Classic One-Pot American Goulash

• One pot, zero stress – Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying.
• Family-friendly – It’s a hit with both kids and adults.
• Customizable – Add vegetables, spice, or different cheeses.
• Meal-prep ready – Makes great leftovers that reheat beautifully.
• Comfort food perfection – Warm, saucy, and filling.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for American Goulash?

Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, thanks to its size and texture, which soaks up the rich tomato sauce perfectly. However, other small pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi work just as well if you want to switch it up.

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Ingredients for the Classic One-Pot American Goulash

This goulash uses simple pantry staples to build deep, savory flavor:

• Ground beef – Adds hearty protein and savory depth.
• Yellow onion – Sweetens and softens the meat base.
• Garlic – Brings warm, aromatic notes.
• Beef broth – Enhances the umami richness of the sauce.
• Tomato sauce & diced tomatoes – Create a luscious, flavorful base.
• Elbow macaroni – The star pasta that absorbs all that sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds bold, tangy undertones.
• Italian seasoning – A balanced blend of herbs.
• Salt & pepper – To taste.
• Cheddar cheese (optional but highly recommended) – For that melty, golden finish.

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How To Make the Classic One-Pot American Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. For a gooey topping, sprinkle additional cheese on top and cover for a few minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Serving and Storing Classic One-Pot American Goulash

This recipe yields about 6 generous servings, perfect for a weeknight dinner or easy meal prep. Serve it fresh from the pot for best texture, but leftovers are just as good—if not better—the next day.

To store, let the goulash cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen.

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What to Serve With American Goulash?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a perfect companion to soak up the savory sauce.

Side Salad

A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty richness of the goulash.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.

Cornbread

Sweet and tender cornbread complements the savory notes of the goulash.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

The acidity adds a refreshing contrast.

Steamed Green Beans

Simple and wholesome, they add color and fiber to your plate.

Cucumber Salad

A tangy, cool salad keeps things light and crisp.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this Classic One-Pot American Goulash, you might enjoy these equally cozy and satisfying dishes:

• Creamy Beef and Shells: A Comforting One-Pan Delight
• Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs: A Bite-Sized Explosion of Flavor
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne

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Tried this dish already? I’d love to hear how you made it yours. Did you add bell peppers or spice it up with chili flakes? Drop your twist in the comments below.

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