Introduction
Hello, fellow food lovers! I’m Jenny, and today I’m thrilled to share my Easy One-Pot American Goulash recipe with you. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also a comforting meal that the whole family will adore. As a mom, I cherish moments spent in the kitchen with my son, and this recipe is perfect for making those special memories. It combines hearty ingredients with a dash of nostalgia, reminding me of family dinners growing up.
Ingredients

Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. This recipe is designed to be simple, so you should find these items in your pantry or local grocery store:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Timing
This Easy One-Pot American Goulash is perfect for busy weeknights. The total time from prep to plate is about 30 minutes. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
In just half an hour, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Step 4: Stir in Pasta
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.
Nutritional Information
This Easy One-Pot American Goulash is not only delicious but also offers a balanced meal option. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for one serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
Feel free to adjust the portions based on your family’s needs!
Healthier Alternatives
Want to lighten things up a bit? Here are some healthier alternatives you can consider:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Add in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are a few suggestions:
- Garlic bread for a comforting touch.
- A fresh garden salad to balance the meal.
- Steamed broccoli for a pop of color and health.
These accompaniments will elevate your dining experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best cooks can make mistakes! Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Cooking the pasta too long can lead to mushy results.
- Not seasoning enough may leave your goulash bland.
- Skipping the simmering step can prevent the flavors from melding together.
Storage Tips
Have leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store your Easy One-Pot American Goulash:
- Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Conclusion
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and my Easy One-Pot American Goulash is perfect for creating delicious meals without the fuss. With easy ingredients and quick prep, it’s a great way to bring family together around the dinner table. I hope you’ll try this recipe and make it a staple in your home!
FAQs
Can I make this goulash in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and just reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different pasta types like penne or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking times.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be used in a variety of ways! Try mixing them into a casserole or using them as a filling for stuffed peppers.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining me today! I’m excited to see how your Easy One-Pot American Goulash turns out. Remember, cooking is all about having fun and creating memories. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and any twists you make on this recipe. Happy cooking, and see you next time on Recipes Cookery!
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Quick and Delicious One-Pot American Goulash Recipe
A hearty and simple one-pot beef and macaroni dish that’s perfect for a family meal.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. This recipe is designed to be simple, so you should find these items in your pantry or local grocery store:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Add elbow macaroni, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; top with shredded cheddar cheese if desired before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
- This dish can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg