One-Pot American Goulash: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes define hearty American comfort quite like One-Pot American Goulash. This nostalgic meal—also lovingly referred to as American Chop Suey in some regions—is a warming blend of elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all simmered together in one pot. It’s beloved by families for its simplicity, budget-friendliness, and the way it brings generations to the dinner table.

Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for busy days, One-Pot Goulash delivers in both flavor and convenience.

A Brief History of American Goulash

While it shares a name with the traditional Hungarian goulash, American Goulash is a dish all its own. Unlike its European counterpart, which is a stew of meat and vegetables seasoned with paprika, the American version is centered around ground beef, tomato sauce, and macaroni noodles. It first rose in popularity during the early to mid-20th century, especially in school cafeterias and home kitchens due to its affordable ingredients and hearty appeal.

Why This Dish Is a Weeknight Winner

In today’s fast-paced world, meals that are easy to prepare, nutritious, and satisfying are more valuable than ever. One-Pot American Goulash checks all the boxes:

✅ Quick prep and cook time (under 45 minutes)
✅ One pot = fewer dishes to clean
✅ Kid-friendly flavors and textures
✅ Affordable pantry staples
✅ Easily scalable for meal prep or leftovers

If you’re always on the lookout for more easy one-pot meals, Taste of Home’s one-pot dinner ideas is another fantastic resource to bookmark.

Ingredients for One-Pot American Goulash

Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this classic American recipe. These ingredients are flexible, so feel free to adapt based on what’s in your pantry:

Core Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend for richness)
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced (optional for added crunch)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
2 cups beef broth (or water)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for depth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

1 tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes for a kick
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for creaminess
Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make One-Pot American Goulash

This dish couldn’t be easier to make, thanks to its one-pot nature. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

‍ Step-by-Step Instructions:

Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté Aromatics
Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Build the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix well to combine.
Simmer with Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and uncooked macaroni. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Final Touches
Once the pasta is tender and the mixture has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning. Optionally, stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve and Enjoy
Spoon into bowls and top with parsley or an extra sprinkle of cheese.

Pro Tips for Perfect Goulash

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The pasta continues to absorb liquid even after cooking, so serve immediately for ideal texture.
Add Vegetables: Want to make it healthier? Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini during the simmering step.
Make It Cheesy: Add a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a cheesy twist.
Double the Recipe: This goulash is great for meal prep. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2–3 months.

Variations to Try

American Goulash is endlessly versatile. Here are some fun twists on the traditional:

Low-Carb Version:

Swap out the pasta for cauliflower rice or zoodles. Reduce the broth to avoid a watery consistency.

Vegetarian Goulash:

Replace beef with lentils or plant-based meat crumbles, and use vegetable broth instead of beef.

Tex-Mex Goulash:

Add black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and top with Monterey Jack cheese.

Slow Cooker Option:

Brown beef and aromatics beforehand, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–5 hours, adding pasta during the final 30 minutes.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350–450
Protein	25g
Carbs	35g
Fat	15g
Fiber	4g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.

Why Families Love This Dish

This dish isn’t just about taste—it’s about connection. For many, it brings back childhood memories of family dinners, comforting leftovers, or potluck gatherings. Its universal appeal lies in the combination of flavors that are both familiar and satisfying.

Parents love it because it’s nutritious and budget-friendly. Kids love it because it’s savory and cheesy. And cooks love it because it’s easy and forgiving.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I freeze American Goulash?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely and portion into freezer-safe containers. Reheat with a splash of broth or water.

❓ What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

Try a dash of soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or even a splash of A1 steak sauce for that umami flavor.

❓ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or shells work just as well—just adjust cooking time as needed.

❓ Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can spice it up with chili flakes, hot sauce, or smoked paprika.

What to Serve with One-Pot American Goulash

This dish is a one-bowl wonder, but you can round out the meal with:

A fresh green salad
Garlic bread or rolls
Steamed vegetables
A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a cold glass of iced tea

Final Thoughts: A Timeless Dish with Endless Possibilities

One-Pot American Goulash is more than a weeknight dinner—it’s a tribute to family traditions, a nod to nostalgic comfort food, and a canvas for culinary creativity. With just a few pantry staples and one big pot, you can create a dish that feels like home.

So next time you’re short on time but want big flavor, let this hearty goulash save the day. It’s a comforting classic that continues to bring joy to kitchens across the country.

Love This Recipe?

Feel free to share it with friends, bookmark it, or make it your go-to for cozy nights in!
Have your own twist on this classic? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your creations!

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