Grandma’s American Goulash (Ground Beef)

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb. ground beef or turkey

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 ½ cup beef broth

1 – 15 oz can tomato sauce

1 – 15 oz can diced tomatoes

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

salt and pepper to taste

1 ½ cup elbow macaroni

1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by cooking the onion with oil in a large skillet until it is tender

Proceed to add garlic and cook for approximately 1 minute

Step 2:

Go ahead and add ground beef or turkey and cook it until it is done, drain if necessary, then season with salt and pepper to taste

Proceed to stir in the tomato paste, broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and paprika until everything is well-combined and mixed

Step 3:

Proceed to add in the uncooked macaroni

Start to bring everything to a simmer and cook it until the pasta is tender

Step 4:

Finally, proceed to stir in the cheese, garnish with parsley, and serve the dish immediately

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Just ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned well.

What type of pasta can I use other than elbow macaroni?

While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even spaghetti broken into smaller pieces if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to use cheddar cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar cheese is commonly used in goulash, but you can experiment with other cheeses if you like.

Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan can be good alternatives.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make this goulash in advance and reheat it.

Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and when reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra liquid to prevent it from drying out.

Are there any suggested side dishes or accompaniments for this goulash?

This goulash is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables to balance the meal.

Can I use other types of meat besides ground beef or turkey?

You can experiment with other ground meats like pork, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives such as tofu crumbles if you have dietary preferences.

Is there a substitute for Italian seasoning if I don’t have it on hand?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can make your own blend using dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.

Alternatively, you can use dried basil and oregano for a similar flavor.

Can I freeze this goulash for later use?

Yes, you can freeze this goulash. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags.

It should be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

What can I do if the goulash is too thick or too thin?

If it’s too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

If it’s too thin, continue simmering it uncovered to reduce the liquid until it thickens.

Are there variations or additional ingredients commonly added to American goulash?

Some variations include adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or different types of cheese.

You can personalize the recipe to suit your taste.