Introduction: Can a Dish Be Hearty, Flavorful, and a One-Pot Wonder?
Craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to whip up? Chef John’s American Goulash is a classic American dish, blending ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, tomato-based sauce with a touch of spice. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy gatherings, this one-pot dish is both satisfying and budget-friendly. Ready to simmer a pot of savory goodness? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Overview: Why Chef John’s American Goulash is a Comfort Food Favorite
Chef John’s American Goulash is loved for its robust flavors, hearty texture, and simplicity. It’s a nostalgic dish that combines the ease of a pasta skillet with bold, savory seasonings. Here’s what makes it special:
- Time Requirement: About 15 minutes to prep, 50-55 minutes to cook.
- Difficulty Level: Easy—requires basic sautéing, simmering, and stirring, ideal for beginners.
- Why It’s Special: The combination of ground beef, macaroni, and a spiced tomato sauce creates a comforting, flavorful dish with a hint of Hungarian-inspired paprika. This recipe yields 12 servings, perfect for large families or leftovers.
Ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you want a hearty, one-pot meal, this goulash is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Essential Ingredients
Chef John’s American Goulash uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create its signature bold, savory flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for 12 servings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Provides a hearty, meaty base.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts savory flavor.
- 2 large bay leaves: Infuses subtle, aromatic depth.
- 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika: Adds smoky, sweet warmth.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Contributes herbal complexity.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild heat.
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste: Provides a subtle spicy kick.
- 1 quart (4 cups) chicken broth or water: Forms the liquid base.
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce: Adds rich tomato flavor.
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes: Contributes tangy, chunky texture.
- 1 cup water: Helps rinse the sauce jar and adjust consistency.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Enhances umami depth.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta for goulash.
- ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley: Adds fresh, herbaceous brightness.
- 1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese (optional): Provides a creamy, tangy finish.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Ground Beef: Creates a hearty, protein-packed base.
- Paprika and Spices: Hungarian paprika and Italian seasoning give a nod to traditional goulash with a warm, complex flavor.
- Marinara and Tomatoes: Form a rich, tangy sauce that binds the dish.
- Macaroni: Adds a comforting, starchy texture that soaks up the sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a beef-pork blend for a different flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce plus 1 teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon oregano.
- Vegan Option: Replace beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, use vegetable broth, and omit cheese or use vegan cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure soy sauce and broth are gluten-free.
- Spicy Goulash: Increase cayenne to ¼ teaspoon or add a diced jalapeño with the vegetables.
- Cheesy Goulash: Stir in an extra ½ cup cheese or use a mix of Cheddar and mozzarella.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Chef John’s American Goulash is a simple, one-pot process that yields a flavorful, comforting dish. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 pounds ground beef, 1 large onion, 4 cloves garlic, 2 large bay leaves, 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, 1 quart chicken broth or water, 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce, 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 cups elbow macaroni, ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley, and 1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese (optional).
- Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley.
Tip: Prep ingredients ahead to streamline cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add 2 pounds ground beef and 1 diced onion; cook, stirring, until beef is browned and crumbly and onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Continue cooking until any liquid evaporates, 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 bay leaves, 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld, about 3 minutes.
Tip: Break up the beef thoroughly to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
- Pour in 1 quart chicken broth (or water), 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce, and 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes.
- Pour 1 cup water into the marinara jar, swirl to rinse, and add to the pot.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce.
- Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium, and simmer until flavors intensify, about 30 minutes.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
- Increase heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a rapid simmer.
- Stir in 2 cups elbow macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally, until just barely tender, about 12 minutes. Check doneness after 10 minutes.
Tip: Stir frequently to prevent macaroni from sticking to the pot.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.
- Stir in ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley and, if using, 1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and let rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed.
- Serve hot in bowls.
Tip: Let the goulash rest to allow the macaroni to absorb the sauce fully.
Assembly: Building the Perfect American Goulash
Making Chef John’s American Goulash is all about creating a hearty, saucy dish with bold flavors. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Beef and Vegetables: Brown thoroughly for rich flavor and tender texture.
- Sauce: Simmer to deepen the tomato and spice flavors.
- Macaroni: Cook just until al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Presentation: Serve steaming hot to showcase the saucy, cheesy goodness.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of cheese for a vibrant look.
- Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Present in deep bowls to highlight the hearty, saucy texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Chef John’s American Goulash is perfect for leftovers and meal prep, as flavors improve over time.
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers or freezer bags; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Make-Ahead:
- Prep vegetables and measure spices a day ahead to save time.
- Cook the goulash (without macaroni) a day in advance; add macaroni when reheating to prevent mushiness.
- Freeze the cooked beef and sauce mixture (without macaroni) for quick future meals; cook fresh pasta when ready.
Tip: Add a splash of liquid when reheating to restore the saucy consistency.
Recipe Variations
Chef John’s American Goulash is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists:
- Cheesy Baked Goulash: Transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.
- Vegetarian Goulash: Replace beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free macaroni and ensure broth and soy sauce are gluten-free.
- Spicy Goulash: Add ½ teaspoon chili powder or a diced chili pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy Goulash: Stir in ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamier texture.
Conclusion: Savor the Hearty Comfort!
Chef John’s American Goulash is the dish that brings saucy, savory comfort to every bite. With its tender beef, al dente macaroni, and rich, spiced tomato sauce, it’s a perfect meal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Easy to make with a big flavor payoff, this goulash is sure to become a favorite. So, grab your pot, simmer this classic, and enjoy a bowl of hearty goodness. We’d love to hear how your goulash turns out—share your creations in the comments or on social media!
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Chef John’s American Goulash
Description
Craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to whip up? Chef John’s American Goulash is a classic American dish, blending ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, tomato-based sauce with a touch of spice
Ingredients
Chef John’s American Goulash uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create its signature bold, savory flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for 12 servings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Provides a hearty, meaty base.
- 1 large onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts savory flavor.
- 2 large bay leaves: Infuses subtle, aromatic depth.
- 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika: Adds smoky, sweet warmth.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Contributes herbal complexity.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds mild heat.
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste: Provides a subtle spicy kick.
- 1 quart (4 cups) chicken broth or water: Forms the liquid base.
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce: Adds rich tomato flavor.
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes: Contributes tangy, chunky texture.
- 1 cup water: Helps rinse the sauce jar and adjust consistency.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Enhances umami depth.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: The classic pasta for goulash.
- ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley: Adds fresh, herbaceous brightness.
- 1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese (optional): Provides a creamy, tangy finish.
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Ground Beef: Creates a hearty, protein-packed base.
- Paprika and Spices: Hungarian paprika and Italian seasoning give a nod to traditional goulash with a warm, complex flavor.
- Marinara and Tomatoes: Form a rich, tangy sauce that binds the dish.
- Macaroni: Adds a comforting, starchy texture that soaks up the sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a beef-pork blend for a different flavor.
- Marinara Sauce: Substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce plus 1 teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon oregano.
- Vegan Option: Replace beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, use vegetable broth, and omit cheese or use vegan cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure soy sauce and broth are gluten-free.
- Spicy Goulash: Increase cayenne to ¼ teaspoon or add a diced jalapeño with the vegetables.
- Cheesy Goulash: Stir in an extra ½ cup cheese or use a mix of Cheddar and mozzarella
Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep
- Gather all ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil, 2 pounds ground beef, 1 large onion, 4 cloves garlic, 2 large bay leaves, 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 pinch cayenne pepper, 1 quart chicken broth or water, 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce, 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 cups elbow macaroni, ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley, and 1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese (optional).
- Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley.
Tip: Prep ingredients ahead to streamline cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add 2 pounds ground beef and 1 diced onion; cook, stirring, until beef is browned and crumbly and onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Continue cooking until any liquid evaporates, 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 bay leaves, 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld, about 3 minutes.
Tip: Break up the beef thoroughly to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer
- Pour in 1 quart chicken broth (or water), 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce, and 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes.
- Pour 1 cup water into the marinara jar, swirl to rinse, and add to the pot.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons soy sauce.
- Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium, and simmer until flavors intensify, about 30 minutes.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
- Increase heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a rapid simmer.
- Stir in 2 cups elbow macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally, until just barely tender, about 12 minutes. Check doneness after 10 minutes.
Tip: Stir frequently to prevent macaroni from sticking to the pot.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.
- Stir in ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley and, if using, 1 cup shredded white Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and let rest for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed.
- Serve hot in bowls.
Tip: Let the goulash rest to allow the macaroni to absorb the sauce fully.
FAQs
1. Why is my goulash too watery?
Watery goulash may need more simmering time. Cook uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken.
2. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, use small pasta like shells, penne, or rotini; adjust cooking time per package instructions.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but use gluten-free macaroni, broth, and soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
4. Why is my sauce bland?
Adjust salt, pepper, or paprika to taste; ensure fresh spices and high-quality marinara are used.
5. Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Cook the beef and sauce a day ahead or freeze; add macaroni when reheheading to prevent mushiness.
6. Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, ground turkey works well; it’s leaner but may need a touch more oil for browning.
7. What are the health benefits of this dish?
Beef provides protein and iron, tomatoes and vegetables add vitamins, but the dish is rich in sodium—enjoy with a light side.