American Goulash

Here’s a classic American Goulash recipe — a hearty, one-pot comfort food made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and seasonings. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and great for leftovers!

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🇺🇸 American Goulash (a.k.a. American Chop Suey)

🍲 Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups beef broth (or water)

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add diced onion and cook until softened (about 4–5 minutes).

   • Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Brown the Meat:

   • Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

   • Drain excess grease if needed.

3. Add Tomatoes & Seasonings:

   • Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Add Broth & Pasta:

   • Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.

   • Stir in elbow macaroni.

5. Simmer:

   • Cover and cook on low heat for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

6. Optional Cheese Finish:

   • Stir in shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy version.

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🧄 Tips & Variations:

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

• Add veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn work well.

• Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.

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Would you like a stovetop vs. Instant Pot version or a gluten-free pasta substitute?