This easy Goulash Recipe is a family favorite and the ultimate comfort food! Macaroni noodles are cooked in a hearty meat sauce and then covered in melted cheese, making this the best American goulash ever!
American Goulash Recipe
We absolutely love this easy Goulash Recipe, and your family will too! This is the perfect one-pot meal that comes together in a snap for a weeknight dinner. This recipe is the classic American Goulash version and a regular in our house, but also great for potlucks because it makes a large amount and is budget friendly. Kids really love this dinner as well!
What is the Difference between Hungarian Goulash and American Goulash?
Hungarian Goulash is more like a stew with meat and veggies, while American Goulash is a quick dish made from ground beef, seasoned tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni noodles. This recipe also goes by the name of American Chop Suey.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the Beef
In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat:
- Cook the ground beef until browned.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
2️⃣ Add Onion & Garlic
- Stir in diced onion.
- Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3️⃣ Add Liquids & Seasoning
Stir in:
- Tomato sauce
- Diced tomatoes (with juice)
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Bring to a gentle boil.
4️⃣ Add the Pasta
- Stir in uncooked macaroni.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
(Add a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick.)
5️⃣ Add Cheese (Optional)
- Stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Or sprinkle on top and cover for 2 minutes to melt.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread
- Add a simple green salad
- Top with fresh parsley
- Sprinkle extra cheese if desired
🧊 Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of water to loosen sauce.
- Freezes well for up to 2 months.
🌟 Tips for Extra Flavor
- Add diced bell peppers
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Use ground turkey instead of beef
- Mix cheddar and mozzarella for cheesier texture
🥘 Why You’ll Love It
✔ One pot meal
✔ Budget-friendly
✔ Family favorite
✔ Ready in under 30 minutes
✔ Great for meal prep
