Chef John’s Classic American Goulash: A Comforting One-Pot Wonder

 American Goulash is the epitome of comfort food—a hearty, budget-friendly, and easy-to-make dish that has stood the test of time. This classic recipe, perfected by Chef John, brings together ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and a rich blend of spices, creating a soul-warming meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Unlike Hungarian goulash, which is a slow-cooked stew rich in paprika and chunks of beef, American goulash is a quick, one-pot dish often referred to as "slumgullion" or "chop suey" in different regions. It’s a staple of American home cooking, loved for its simplicity, rich flavor, and versatility.

In this article, we’ll dive into Chef John’s famous American Goulash recipe, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, variations, and frequently asked questions to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✅ One-Pot Meal – Less cleanup and maximum flavor.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
✅ Comforting & Hearty – Perfect for cold nights or family gatherings.
✅ Customizable – Easily adaptable to your taste and dietary preferences.

Chef John’s American Goulash Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the diced onions to the pot and cook until soft and translucent (about 3 minutes).
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Liquids

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
2. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf.
3. Mix everything well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

1. Stir in the elbow macaroni.
2. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Cooking Tips for the Best American Goulash

🔹 Use lean ground beef – An 85/15 or 90/10 mix works best to avoid excess grease.
🔹 Don’t overcook the pasta – It should be tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
🔹 Let it rest – Allow the goulash to sit for 5 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
🔹 Add more broth if needed – If the mixture gets too thick, add a little broth or water to loosen it up.

Variations & Substitutions

⭐ Make it Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
⭐ Use Different Proteins – Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or sausage.
⭐ Vegetarian Option – Use plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth.
⭐ More Veggies – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini make great additions.
⭐ Cheesy Version – Stir in extra cheese for a creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

🥡 Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
❄️ Freezer – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
🔥 Reheating – Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to revive the texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make American Goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then add all ingredients (except pasta) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in the pasta 30 minutes before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, rotini, or any short pasta. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

4. What can I serve with American Goulash?

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables.

5. Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients, but make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the extra volume.

Final Thoughts

Chef John’s American Goulash is the ultimate comfort meal that’s simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pot wonder is sure to satisfy.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out! What’s your favorite twist on American goulash? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Would you like any modifications or additional details? 😊