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Nostalgic American Goulash Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

Nostalgic American Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal featuring tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked macaroni noodles, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is ideal for chilly evenings when you crave warmth and satisfying flavors in a quick and easy skillet recipe.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 lb. ground beef (90% lean)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 ½ cups beef broth
  • 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-oz) can petite diced tomatoes (do not drain)
  • 1 ½ cups uncooked macaroni noodles
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat Olive Oil and Cook Vegetables and Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook while stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juice, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Cook the Macaroni: Increase heat to medium-high, add uncooked macaroni noodles to the pot, and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.
  6. Finish the Dish: Remove bay leaves. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Serve: Serve warm, optionally garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs.

Notes

  • The consistency should be hearty and slightly saucy—not too thick like a casserole nor too runny like soup. Cheese helps thicken the sauce.
  • If the sauce appears too dry, add an additional ¼ cup of beef broth or water while cooking the macaroni.
  • Use 90% lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and keep the dish balanced.
  • For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the seasonings.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.

Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/nostalgic-american-goulash-recipe/