Name: Easy American Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion; 4 cloves garlic; 2 bell peppers; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup red wine; 1/2 cup water; 1 28oz. can diced tomatoes; 1 15oz. can tomato sauce; 2 Tbsp soy sauce; 2 whole bay leaves (optional); 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp dried basil; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper; 2 cups elbow macaroni (about 1/2 lb.); salt to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 40 reviews

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Easy American Goulash Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a cozy blend of tender elbow macaroni, rich tomato sauce, and savory ground beef, all simmered together with bright bell peppers and a hint of spice. This dish effortlessly brings together simple ingredients into a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for family gatherings or a casual weeknight. The balance of flavors and the straightforward cooking make it a winner every time you serve it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of cooking ingredients on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, there is a white bowl filled with bright red diced tomatoes in juice. Next to it is a clear glass measuring cup with water, followed by a whole round brown onion and two green bell peppers side by side. Below the diced tomatoes is a white tray with raw ground meat, with a white bowl of thick red tomato sauce right next to it. Below the onion are two dried bay leaves and a whole garlic bulb. To their right, there is a small clear bowl with dark soy sauce and another small clear bowl with mixed dried herbs and red chili flakes. Below these, a stainless steel measuring cup holds uncooked elbow macaroni, and at the bottom right there is a small metal cup filled with dark balsamic vinegar. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Whipping up this Easy American Goulash Recipe is all about using straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch. Each component plays a role: the olive oil and onions build a flavorful base, the ground beef lends richness and depth, and the combination of tomatoes and spices creates that classic tangy, comforting sauce.

1 Tbsp olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that starts the sautéing process with a subtle fruity flavor.
1 yellow onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when cooked down.
4 cloves garlic: For that unmistakable savory punch that brightens the dish.
2 bell peppers: Provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color, balancing the rich sauce.
1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and satisfying.
1/2 cup red wine: Adds complexity and helps pick up any browned bits from the pot for a richer taste.
1 28oz. can diced tomatoes: The juicy cornerstone of your sauce with natural sweetness and texture.
1 15oz. can tomato sauce: Thickens and deepens the tomato flavor in the goulash.
2 Tbsp soy sauce: Brings an umami boost, enhancing the meatiness and balancing acidity.
2 whole bay leaves (optional): Infuse subtle earthiness throughout the simmering sauce.
1/2 tsp dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbal warmth.
1/2 tsp dried basil: Introduces a fragrant, slightly sweet note.
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper: Just enough to add a touch of heat without overpowering.
1/2 cup water: Helps the sauce simmer to the perfect consistency.
2 cups elbow macaroni (about 1/2 lb): The classic pasta that soaks up every bit of the tasty sauce.
Salt to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Make Easy American Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics and Vegetables

Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic, then sauté them in olive oil over medium heat until the onion turns translucent and soft. This step is crucial because it unlocks the natural sweetness of the onion and the fragrant punch of garlic. Add the diced bell peppers next and continue to sauté for about two more minutes to soften them just enough to keep their vibrant color and slight crunch.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to your pot with the sautéed vegetables. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even browning. This browning builds flavor and texture. Once done, pour in the red wine and stir well, letting it deglaze the pot by lifting any flavorful brown bits off the bottom — that’s where a lot of the magic happens.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, soy sauce, and water. Toss in the bay leaves if you’re using them, along with oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper. Stir everything together, then cover the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. This slow simmer lets all the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, comforting sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni in the Sauce

After your sauce has simmered and tasted heavenly on its own, add the elbow macaroni directly into the pot. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the pasta into the sauce. Keep the pot covered and simmer until the macaroni is perfectly tender, about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method lets the pasta absorb the delicious sauce, making each bite full of flavor.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Once the pasta is tender, give your goulash a final taste and add salt as needed—a small but impactful finishing step. Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving, since they’ve done their job during the simmer. Now you’re ready to enjoy a bowl full of hearty, satisfying comfort food that’s truly simple to make.

How to Serve Easy American Goulash Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with three layers of food: at the bottom, small curved macaroni pasta in off-white color; in the middle, a mix of green bell pepper pieces and red tomato chunks; on top, browned minced meat mixed evenly throughout the pasta and vegetables, with some black pepper sprinkled over it. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface next to torn bread pieces, fresh green parsley leaves, and two silver forks resting on a striped black and white cloth. Another white bowl with the same contents is partially visible in the upper left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a touch of freshness on top of your goulash makes all the difference. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil to add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note. A little grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese is also delightful, melting slightly into the warm pasta for an extra creamy touch that never fails to impress.

Side Dishes

While this Easy American Goulash Recipe is a complete meal by itself, pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans helps lighten the plate and adds texture contrast. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is another excellent choice to scoop up every last bit of the savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the goulash in mini bread bowls for a charming presentation at family dinners or potlucks. You can also layer it in a casserole dish topped with shredded cheese and bake it until bubbly and golden for a baked goulash version that’s just as comforting but with a crispy, cheesy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover goulash keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it perfect for quick lunches or a no-fuss weekday dinner.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully too. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a little headspace for the pasta to expand, and avoid freezing with cheese toppings to prevent texture changes.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and add a splash of water or broth if it looks too thick. You can also microwave individual servings, stirring halfway through for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may release less fat, so you might need to add a bit more olive oil during the sautéing step for flavor and moisture.

Is it necessary to include red wine?

Not at all. The red wine adds depth, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, simply substitute it with beef or vegetable broth. The dish will still be flavorful and delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free pasta in place of elbow macaroni, and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easily adaptable.

How spicy is this goulash?

The crushed red pepper adds just a mild heat to lift the flavors without overpowering the dish. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your taste.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can chop all your vegetables ahead and store them in the fridge. The sauce can also be fully made a day before, then simply add the pasta and cook it fresh when ready to serve for maximum texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy American Goulash Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like coming home—warm, filling, and so satisfying. Its simple ingredients and straightforward method make it a go-to for busy nights when you want something special without the fuss. I hope you give it a try and find as much comfort and joy in this recipe as I do. It’s truly a classic that belongs in every home-cooked meal rotation!