Preheat & Prep Macaroni: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the macaroni for about 3 minutes less than directed on the package. This ensures it won’t be overcooked during baking. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef & Onion: In a large, oven-safe skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Prepare the Sauce: Add Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
Combine Ingredients: Mix in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.
Bake: If using an oven-safe skillet, place it directly in the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is melted. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a casserole dish before baking.
Tips for Perfect American Goulash
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will continue cooking in the oven, slightly undercooking the pasta during the boiling stage prevents it from becoming too soft.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the sauce before baking. Tomato-based sauces can vary in acidity, so adjusting the seasoning will balance flavors.
Cheese Options: Cheddar gives a sharp, creamy flavor, but mixing in some mozzarella or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the taste.
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spices: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes, or use smoked paprika for a smoky note.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute elbow macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
American Goulash is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few sides that pair perfectly:
Cornbread or Biscuits: The subtle sweetness of cornbread or the flaky texture of homemade biscuits is perfect for sopping up the sauce.
Green Salad: A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds balance to the hearty flavors of the goulash.
Garlic Bread: For garlic lovers, crusty garlic bread is an irresistible side to soak up every bit of sauce.
Storing & Reheating
Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: American Goulash freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make American Goulash ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the goulash and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it goes straight from the fridge to the oven.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, or use beans like kidney or black beans.
3. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can make your own with a mix of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, or just use a combination of your favorite herbs.
4. Why is my goulash watery?
This could happen if the tomatoes have extra liquid. Cooking the sauce for a few minutes longer before adding the macaroni will help it thicken.
This American Goulash recipe delivers a nostalgic comfort meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying for all ages. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it’s a recipe you’ll likely come back to time and time again!
