Unleash Flavor: Classic American Goulash Recipe

Welcome to a journey of robust flavors and hearty comfort with our Classic American Goulash recipe! Also known as American chop suey, this beloved dish is a comforting blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni, simmered to perfection with aromatic onions and peppers. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Join us as we dive into the steps to create this timeless dish and indulge in its irresistible flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion
• 1 medium green pepper
• 1 32 oz can tomato juice
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 16 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and green pepper.
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green pepper to the pot with the cooked ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the tomato juice and diced tomatoes (including the liquid from the can). Stir well to combine.
5. Add Macaroni: Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring that it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked to your desired level of tenderness, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Serve: Once the macaroni is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the goulash hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to add richness and flavor to your goulash. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses can work well.
• Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the goulash for an extra kick.
• Vegetable Additions: You can customize the goulash by adding additional vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may have a slightly different flavor and texture compared to ground beef.

Q: Can I use different pasta shapes?

A: While elbow macaroni is traditional for goulash, you can certainly use other pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or shells if desired. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta shape you choose.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm the goulash in a pot on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the goulash ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. You may need to add a splash of water or additional tomato juice when reheating to loosen up the pasta and prevent it from drying out.

Keto Version and Low Carb Version

Keto Version:

To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. You can also use a low-carb tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes instead of tomato juice to reduce the carbohydrate content.

Low Carb Version:

For a low-carb version, you can omit the pasta entirely and serve the goulash as a hearty meat and vegetable stew. You can also use cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage as a low-carb alternative to pasta.

In conclusion, Classic American Goulash is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni, it’s a timeless recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this classic comfort food!