This hardy American Goulash Recipe is one of my kids’ favorites. It is a classic dish from our childhoods similar to Hamburger Helper, with ground beef and elbow macaroni cooked in a savory tomato sauce and topped with cheese. It’s so easy to make this comforting one-pot meal.
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What is American Goulash?
American Goulash has many names, depending on the region you’re from – Slumgullion, American Chop Suey, Johnny Marzetti, and even Beefaroni. Regardless of what you call it, we can all agree it’s an American treasure of hardy tomato sauce with ground beef, and the pasta is cooked right in the sauce to soak up all those delicious, cozy flavors.
Goulash is a great way to stretch a pound of ground beef to feed a crowd, especially when you want something warm and satisfying. It’s a staple in so many homes just like Sloppy Joes, Beef Stew, and Chicken Noodle Soup. It hits the spot when you’re craving something less fussy but with all the best flavors.
American Goulash Video
See how Natasha turns common pantry staples into a saucy, beefy, warm and satisfying pasta dish in one pot. It’s so easy, you can have American Goulash for dinner tonight!
Why This American Goulash Works
- Reheats well – great for meal prep
- Family and Kid-Friendly – my kids practically lick their bowls clean
- Budget-friendly – satisfying dish to serve a crowd with just 1 pound of meat
- Simple Ingredients – you probably have all the ingredients in your pantry and it comes together in one pot
- Nutritious – great recipe to sneak in extra veggies
- Nostalgic – it must be good if generations of grandmas and moms have served this dish!
