Classic One-Pot American Goulash

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Classic One-Pot American Goulash is the kind of cozy, family-style comfort food that tastes like a warm hug in a bowl. With tender macaroni noodles, a hearty meat sauce, and just the right touch of seasoning, this dish delivers all the nostalgic flavors of traditional American home cooking. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without the fuss.

What makes this dish especially magical is that everything cooks in one pot—yes, even the pasta! That means fewer dishes, more flavor, and a faster cleanup. Whether you grew up with goulash or you’re discovering it for the first time, this version brings that savory, cheesy goodness that keeps you coming back for more.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For a well-balanced flavor with the right amount of richness, go for 85/15 ground beef. It has enough fat to develop that deep, meaty taste without being too greasy. If you want a leaner option, you can use 90/10 and add a splash of olive oil to balance the moisture. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used for a lighter variation, though beef gives the most classic flavor.

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Ingredients for the Classic One-Pot American Goulash

Ground Beef: The heart of this dish, providing savory flavor and protein. Use lean or regular, depending on your preference.

Elbow Macaroni: Classic macaroni is the traditional pasta of choice. It cooks right in the pot, soaking up all the sauce and flavor.

Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the dish. Yellow onions work best.

Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a warm, aromatic base that enhances the meat and tomatoes.

Diced Tomatoes: They create a chunky, tangy sauce and give that traditional goulash body.

Tomato Sauce: Helps bind the sauce and add a smooth, rich consistency.

Beef Broth: Infuses flavor into the pasta as it cooks and creates a more savory sauce.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a punch of umami and ties all the savory flavors together.

Paprika & Italian Seasoning: These spices round out the dish with warmth and herby notes.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Stirred in at the end, it melts beautifully and makes the dish extra comforting.

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How To Make the Classic One-Pot American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef over medium-high heat. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Saute the Aromatics

Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Add Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Add the beef broth to the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add the Pasta

Stir in the elbow macaroni, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Make It Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese.

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Serving and Storing This Comfort Classic

Classic One-Pot American Goulash is best served hot and fresh, straight from the pot. It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a crisp green salad, buttery garlic bread, or even a pickle spear for a bit of tang. For a crowd, double the batch and let guests serve themselves family-style.

Leftovers store beautifully, making this dish even more appealing for busy weeknights. Simply let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also freeze goulash for up to 2 months—just know the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this goulash ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce portion in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, bring it to a simmer, add the pasta, and cook until tender. Fresh cheese is best added just before serving.

Can I substitute the beef?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat can be used instead. The flavor will change slightly, but it still works well.

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?

Other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne will also work. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed and keep an eye on the liquid level.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions. Add them in with the onions so they soften as everything cooks.

How do I make it spicier?

A dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Stir in hot sauce at the end for more control over the heat level.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very much so! It’s mild, cheesy, and easy to eat. You can even let the kids help stir in the cheese at the end for fun.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Classic One-Pot American Goulash hit the spot, you’ll love exploring these other comforting pasta creations from my kitchen:

• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce for ultra cheesy satisfaction.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta with a bold, savory kick.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving something a little creamier.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for nostalgic comfort food with a twist.
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner that’s weeknight-ready and family-approved.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Nina on Pinterest

And I’d love to hear how your goulash turned out! Did you go classic or make it spicy? Add veggies? Drop your comments and let’s swap kitchen notes.

Questions, tweaks, or tasty wins—share them below. Let’s help each other make dinner time delicious.

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