Easy One-Pot American Goulash

Craving Easy One-Pot American Goulash, a hearty, comforting meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor? If so, you’re in for a treat! Look no further than this delicious dish. Not only is this classic meal warm and nostalgic, but it’s also perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, filling, and satisfying. Plus, since it all comes together in just one pot, cleanup is as easy as it gets!

With savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, seasoned tomato sauce, this recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser. Even better, it’s incredibly simple to prepare! Rather than juggling multiple pots and pans, you’ll cook everything together, allowing the flavors to meld into a deliciously satisfying dish. In fact, the longer it simmers, the better it tastes! Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or a potluck, this goulash delivers bold taste with minimal effort. Best of all, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen, which makes it even more convenient!

So, if you’re searching for a quick, fuss-free meal that’s bursting with flavor, this is exactly what you need! Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly comforting. Keep reading to learn how to make this ultimate comfort food in no time. Trust me—once you try it, this will become a regular on your dinner table! ✨

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
3 cups beef broth
1 ½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp tomato paste
½ tsp sugar
½ tbsp butter
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp onion powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.

2. Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and garlic to the pot. Stir in tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Build the sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.

4. Cook the pasta: Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

5. Finish with butter & serve: Stir in ½ tbsp butter for a smooth, glossy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for extra cheesiness. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Sauté for Maximum Flavor: Before adding liquids, let the onions, garlic, and tomato paste cook for a couple of minutes. This builds a deeper, more caramelized flavor base that enhances the entire dish.
• Use the Right Pasta-to-Liquid Ratio: Macaroni absorbs a lot of broth, so using 3 cups of beef broth ensures a saucy consistency. If it thickens too much, stir in a little extra broth before serving to keep it perfectly balanced.
• Finish with Butter for a Velvety Texture: Stirring in ½ tablespoon of butter at the end gives the goulash a smooth, glossy finish and rounds out the rich, comforting flavors. Don’t skip this step—it makes a big difference!