One Pot American Goulash

Made in one pot with just 10 basic ingredients, this American Goulash is a delicious comfort food recipe. It's perfect for a cozy chilly night and also makes the best leftovers during a busy week.

This one-pot American Goulash is quick to make and has easy ingredients. It’s one of those comfort food classic meals perfect for the cooler months. Whether it’s a holiday, game day get-together, potluck, or dinner with your family, this goulash is always a hit!

We've been making goulash for years. It's one of our lazy, go-to dinner recipes during a busy week or when entertaining friends and family. There's little to no mess since it only uses one pot. I also make sure to keep most of the ingredients in the pantry and freezer all the time to be able to whip this up quickly.

If you love a hearty and filling homemade stew, this goulash is for you. Be sure to also try our Lasagna Soup, Beef and Vegetable Soup, and Soup Beans.

I just finished up in making your American Goulash. With my 1st taste, I was so pleased. I did not alter nor add any more ingredients. This recipe is a true keeper as it is easy to make with all supplies in my own kitchen. Delicious…. -Mary Alice

Hungarian Versus American Goulash

American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash, despite sharing a similar name, are distinct dishes with notable differences.

American Goulash, also known as American chop suey, typically features hearty ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, onions, and various spices.

Hungarian Goulash, on the other hand, is a traditional Hungarian stew made with tender beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. It is often served with crusty bread or egg noodles. It's a slow-cooked dish, allowing the flavors to develop over time, the American dish is quick-cooking.

Why You'll Love this Recipe

• Simplicity with 10 ingredients. This homemade American Goulash recipe is a perfect choice for busy weeknights. It requires just a single pot, making for easy clean up, and is excellent as leftovers!
• Versatility. You can customize this classic comfort food by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.
• Hearty and Filling. The combination of beef/sausage, pasta, and rich tomato-based sauce makes this dish incredibly filling and flavorful!

Ingredients

Scroll Down for Ingredient Amounts Listed in the Recipe Card Below

• Ground Beef and/or Italian Sausage: The primary protein source in American Goulash. It provides a hearty and meaty texture, infusing the dish with savory flavors as it cooks.
• Fresh Garlic Cloves: Amplifies the savory aroma and taste.
• Yellow Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness, depth to the dish, and complements the savory notes from the beef/sausage and spices.
• Beef Broth or Stock: Provides a liquid base and intensifies the beefy flavor. It also ensures the pasta cooks thoroughly and absorbs the savory essence of the broth.
• Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: Brings a rich, tangy sweetness to the goulash. They serve as the base of the sauce, providing acidity and depth of flavor.
• Seasonings: Paprika, Chipotle Chili Powder, Chili Powder, and Italian Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper, Bay Leaves: Paprika is typically the key spice in goulash, offering a warm, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor. Chipotle Chili Pepper or Chili Powder adds a kick of warmth and heat. Italian Seasoning adds herbal notes, while salt and pepper balance the overall taste by enhancing other flavors and reducing bitterness.
• Elbow Macaroni: Elbow noodles add substance and texture to the goulash. It absorbs the flavors of the sauce while retaining a slight firmness.
• Optional Garnishes: Shredded White Cheddar Cheese, Sliced Green Onions, Cornbread, Hoe Cakes, Crackers

Tools You’ll Need

• Large Skillet or Stockpot
• Chef’s Knife
• Garlic Press
• Cutting Board
• Meat Chopper
• Liquid Measuring Cups
• Can Opener
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cheese Grater
• Ladle

How to make One Pot American Goulash

1. To a large pot on medium high heat, crumble beef and Italian sausage into smaller pieces, and cook until nearly cooked through. 

2. Drain excess grease, and add onion and garlic. Cook 2-3 minutes or until onion is translucent and meat is no longer pink. 

3. Add broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices, stir until combined. 

4. Bring to a boil, then turn heat to medium-low, simmering, covered for 20 minutes. 
5. Stir in elbow macaroni, and simmer, covered an additional 15-20 minutes. 

6. Remove each bay leaf, give it a good stir, dish, and garnish as desired.

Tips and Variations

• Adjust the spices to your taste. If you like it spicier, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Taste and season as you go.
• Feel free to add vegetables like green bell pepper, mushrooms, or carrots to your goulash. These additions not only boost nutrition but also add interesting textures and flavors.
• If you have fresh herbs like basil or thyme, adding them towards the end of the cooking process can infuse the goulash with a burst of fresh flavor.
• You can substitute the hamburger meat and/or Italian sausage with any ground meat. Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version all could work.
• While elbow macaroni is traditional, any small pasta like shells, rotini, or penne can work. Gluten-free pasta can be used if you're following a gluten-free diet.
• If you don't have canned diced tomatoes or sauce, you can use fresh.
• Beef broth can be substituted with vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version. You can also use chicken broth for a different flavor profile.

What to serve with Goulash

Beef and Sausage Goulash is delicious by itself. However, adding some delicious garnishes can take it to the next level. We love adding a sprinkle of shredded white cheddar cheese and sliced green onions. Crackers, oyster crackers, chopped jalapeño, red onion, sour cream, fresh parsley, and diced avocado are also excellent toppers.

A couple heartier breads that pair perfectly with goulash are Garlic Biscuits, Hoe Cakes, Cornbread, or Biscuits.

Storage and Freezing Leftovers

Refrigeration: If you plan to consume the goulash within a few days, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the goulash to room temperature before refrigerating it.

Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the goulash on the stovetop over low to medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much during storage. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Freezing: American Goulash can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. While it's safe to freeze it for a longer period, the quality might deteriorate over time. You can freeze in small batches if you plan to pull a portion out at a time.

Thawing and Reheating: To thaw, transfer the frozen goulash to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop over low to medium heat or microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency. Always ensure that the goulash is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comforting Soup Recipes

• Brisket Chili
• Chicken Enchilada Soup
• Chicken Alfredo Soup
• Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup