One Pan American Goulash

American Goulash is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. This One Pan American Goulash recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, the one-pan aspect means less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your time with loved ones even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, dinner can be ready in no time.
• One-Pan Convenience: Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup and minimal fuss.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The savory combination of beef, tomatoes, and spices appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile Dish: Customize with different vegetables or spices based on your family’s preferences.
• Hearty Meal: A filling dish that provides comfort during chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools for an effortless cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking and combines all ingredients seamlessly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

American Goulash is an easy and delicious dinner recipe the whole family enjoys!

For the Meat Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 diced onion
• 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper
• 1 tsp each of onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning
• 1 TBSP Worcestershire sauce
• 1 TBSP minced garlic

For the Sauce

• (2) 8 oz cans of tomato sauce
• 15 oz can of diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/2 cups of beef broth

For the Pasta

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni

For Topping

• shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pan American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning until fully cooked.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Once browned, drain any excess grease from the meat. Add minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir in the two cans of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni.

Step 3: Let It Simmer

Stir well to combine all ingredients. Place the two bay leaves on top. Allow it to start bubbling before reducing heat to medium-low. Cover with a lid.

Step 4: Cook Until Done

Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has reduced. Carefully remove bay leaves before stirring well.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Dish out portions onto plates or bowls. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor. Enjoy your meal! Let me know if you try it out!

How to Serve One Pan American Goulash

Serving One Pan American Goulash is simple and fun! This dish is flavorful and comforting, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with a Salad

• Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a crisp contrast to the hearty goulash.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad complement the rich flavors of the goulash.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes for a delicious side to soak up the extra sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls can be served warm, perfect for dipping into the goulash.

Top It Off

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the spices in the dish.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions sprinkled on top provide a burst of flavor and color.

How to Perfect One Pan American Goulash

Perfecting One Pan American Goulash is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to make your dish even better!

• Bold seasoning: Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices according to your taste preferences for more flavor.
• Use high-quality beef broth: A rich broth enhances the overall taste of your goulash. Opt for homemade or low-sodium options if possible.
• Cook pasta al dente: Keep an eye on your elbow macaroni while cooking; it should be tender but still firm when you serve it.
• Let it rest: Allowing the goulash to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding additional toppings like diced bell peppers or olives for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan American Goulash

One Pan American Goulash pairs nicely with various side dishes that elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans offer a healthy side that complements the richness of goulash.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base alongside the goulash, perfect for scooping!
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the hearty flavors of the dish.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds a delightful touch of sweetness that contrasts well with savory goulash.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make an excellent side that everyone will enjoy.
6. Baked Potato Wedges: Seasoned baked potato wedges add a crispy element that pairs nicely with the soft textures of goulash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pan American Goulash can be straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Ignoring seasoning: Not using enough salt or spices can lead to bland goulash. Always taste your dish as you cook and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Overcooking pasta: Cooking elbow macaroni too long can make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely, checking for al dente texture.
• Neglecting to drain fat: Leaving excess grease in the pan can make your goulash greasy. Be sure to drain the fat after browning the meat.
• Skipping the bay leaves: Bay leaves enhance flavor but are often overlooked. Always include them for depth and aroma, but remember to remove them before serving.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the cooking process won’t allow flavors to meld. Let your goulash simmer to ensure a rich taste.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow goulash to cool completely before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing One Pan American Goulash

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Store for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating One Pan American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place goulash in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely with a lid. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan American Goulash?

One Pan American Goulash is a hearty dish made with ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce, all cooked in one pan for convenience.

Can I customize my One Pan American Goulash?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or try different types of cheese on top.

How can I make One Pan American Goulash healthier?

You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and add more vegetables for extra nutrition.

Is One Pan American Goulash kid-friendly?

Yes! This dish is typically loved by kids due to its comforting flavors and cheesy topping.

Conclusion

One Pan American Goulash is not only an easy dinner recipe but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your family’s preferences, adding veggies or changing proteins as needed. Give this delicious meal a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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