One Pot American Goulash

One Pot American Goulash is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. This recipe combines ground beef, elbow pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, all cooked in a single pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, showcasing flavors that everyone will love. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, it’s an ideal choice for those who want delicious meals without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total cook time of just 25 minutes, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• One-Pot Convenience: Enjoy an easy cooking experience with everything prepared in one pot—less mess and hassle!
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this dish is perfect for families looking to save without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of seasoned beef and tangy tomato sauce creates a hearty dish that’s bursting with taste.
• Versatile Meal: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare One Pot American Goulash efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows even cooking and helps accommodate all the ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring to prevent sticking and ensure that everything cooks evenly.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements of spices are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you valuable prep time.

Ingredients

This one pot American goulash is an easy, budget-friendly dinner made with ground beef, elbow pasta, and a rich tomato sauce—all cooked in one pot for quick cleanup.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ yellow onion (diced)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce

For the Sauce and Pasta

• 15 ounces Petite Diced Tomatoes (Drained)
• 24 ounce jar Pasta Sauce
• 2 cups elbow pasta
• 3 cups Beef Broth

For Topping

• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese

How to Make One Pot American Goulash

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot over medium-high heat add the olive oil, onions, and bell pepper. Allow the onions and bell pepper to cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook Ground Beef

Add in the ground beef. Cook until no pink is visible. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain off excess grease before seasoning with seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, elbow pasta, and beef broth. Stir until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer Until Cooked Through

Allow it to cook while stirring occasionally for about 20 minutes or until pasta is soft.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done, serve hot topped with cheddar cheese for added flavor. Enjoy your hearty One Pot American Goulash!

How to Serve One Pot American Goulash

One Pot American Goulash is a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter adds a delicious crunch that complements the goulash.
• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce, a fresh baguette brings a rustic touch to the meal.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing and croutons provides a refreshing contrast.
• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes dressed lightly adds freshness to the dish.

Top with Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Sprinkle extra cheese on top just before serving for an extra creamy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan offers a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

How to Perfect One Pot American Goulash

To make your One Pot American Goulash even better, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.

• Bold Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding red pepper flakes for some heat or smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions to elevate the taste and nutrition of your goulash.
• Control Pasta Texture: Keep an eye on the pasta while cooking; you want it al dente to avoid mushiness in the final dish.
• Customize Seasoning: Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences, adding more garlic or Italian herbs if desired.
• Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps develop flavors and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot American Goulash

Complementing your One Pot American Goulash with side dishes can elevate the meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Vegetables: A mix of broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of goulash.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with savory dishes like goulash, offering a delightful texture contrast.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a zesty flavor that cuts through the heaviness of the goulash.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes make for a comforting side that complements the hearty nature of goulash.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans can serve as a filling side that balances out your meal perfectly.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a satisfying pairing with your goulash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot American Goulash can be simple, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Skipping the Sauté: Failing to sauté the onions and bell peppers properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take the time to soften them first.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta for too long will make it mushy. Keep an eye on it and taste regularly during simmering.
• Not Draining Grease: Leaving excess grease from the ground beef can alter the dish’s texture and flavor. Drain it thoroughly before seasoning.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each ingredient varies in flavor strength. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly for the best results.
• Using Cold Broth: Adding cold broth can slow down cooking time. Always use room temperature or warm broth for a smoother cooking process.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• One Pot American Goulash lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pot American Goulash

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating One Pot American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pot American Goulash?

One Pot American Goulash is a hearty meal made with ground beef, elbow pasta, and a rich tomato sauce all cooked together in one pot.

Can I customize One Pot American Goulash?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms or swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

How do I make One Pot American Goulash vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What should I serve with One Pot American Goulash?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a simple side salad to balance out its richness.

Conclusion

One Pot American Goulash is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your taste preferences and what you have on hand. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a comforting meal during colder months, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try!

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