American goulash

Here’s a classic American Goulash recipe (also called American Chop Suey). It’s a one-pot, hearty comfort meal with ground beef, pasta, and a tomato-based sauce—very different from Hungarian goulash.

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American Goulash (Step-by-Step Directions)

🍲 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

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Equipment

• Large pot or deep skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups

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Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Place a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon.
3. Cook until fully browned (about 6–8 minutes).
4. Drain excess grease if needed.

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Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

1. Add diced onion to the beef.
2. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 3: Add Seasonings and Sauces

1. Stir in:
   • Tomato sauce
   • Diced tomatoes
   • Beef broth
   • Worcestershire sauce
   • Paprika
   • Italian seasoning
   • Salt and pepper
2. Mix well to combine.

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Step 4: Add the Pasta

1. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.
2. Make sure the pasta is mostly covered by liquid.

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Step 5: Simmer

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce heat to low.
3. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring every few minutes.
4. Cook until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.

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Step 6: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste the goulash.
2. Add more salt, pepper, or seasoning if needed.

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Step 7: Serve

1. Remove from heat.
2. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if using.
3. Serve hot.

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Optional Variations

• Cheesy Goulash: Stir cheese directly into the pot at the end
• Veggie Add-ins: Bell peppers, corn, or peas
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
• Healthier: Use ground turkey instead of beef

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Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days
• Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or broth