American Goulash

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🌟 American Goulash Recipe

🥘 Introduction

American Goulash, also known as “Beef and Macaroni” or “Johnny Marzetti,” is a classic comfort dish loved across the United States. It’s a warm, hearty combination of tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and rich tomato sauce. Unlike Hungarian Goulash, which is spiced with paprika and served as a stew, American Goulash is milder and pasta-based, perfect for families and easy weeknight dinners.

This dish is the ultimate cozy comfort food—simple, satisfying, and budget-friendly.

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🧄 Ingredients

For 6 servings:

1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni pasta

1 lb (450g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

2 tbsp tomato paste

2 cups beef broth

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes).
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the beef mixture

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
5. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Create the sauce

1. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce to the beef.
2. Stir in paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10–15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Combine

1. Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix well so every noodle is coated with sauce.
2. Optional: add shredded cheese and let it melt into the goulash.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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🧑‍🍳 Methods

One-pot method: Cook everything (including pasta) in one pot by adding uncooked macaroni directly to the simmering sauce. Add an extra 1 cup of broth and cook until pasta is tender.

Cheesy method: Add layers of shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving for extra creaminess.

Spicy method: Add crushed red pepper or chili powder for a little heat.

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📜 History

American Goulash originated in the early 20th century in the Midwest, inspired by Hungarian immigrants’ traditional goulash. Over time, Americans simplified it using local ingredients—macaroni and canned tomatoes—to create a quick and affordable meal during hard times. It became a staple in school cafeterias, potlucks, and home kitchens, symbolizing comfort and community.

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💪 Benefits

1. Protein-rich: Ground beef provides essential amino acids for muscle growth.
2. Energy booster: Carbohydrates from pasta offer sustained energy.
3. Heartwarming comfort food: Reduces stress and boosts mood.
4. Family-friendly: Easy to cook in large batches for sharing.
5. Budget-friendly: Uses simple and affordable ingredients.

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🏗️ Formation

The dish’s formation is beautifully layered:

1. Base: Macaroni noodles create the soft and chewy foundation.
2. Body: Savory ground beef enriches the dish with texture.
3. Sauce: Tomato sauce brings acidity and depth.
4. Seasoning: Herbs and spices elevate flavor complexity.
5. Finish: Cheese (optional) adds creamy richness and satisfaction.

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🍽️ Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: ~420 kcal

Protein: 28 g

Carbohydrates: 38 g

Fat: 15 g

Fiber: 4 g

Sodium: 720 mg

Sugar: 7 g

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💖 Lovers of This Dish

This recipe is adored by:

Home cooks who love one-pot meals.

Busy parents who need quick, filling dinners.

College students craving nostalgic comfort food.

Food lovers who appreciate simple flavors done right.

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🥄 Conclusion

American Goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl full of love, warmth, and nostalgia. Each bite carries the simplicity of old-fashioned cooking, the heart of family gatherings, and the comfort of home. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your loved ones, or sharing it at a potluck, this dish never fails to bring smiles and satisfaction.

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💞 For Lovers

This dish represents love in its simplest form—sharing a hearty meal with someone special. The warmth of the sauce, the tenderness of the noodles, and the comforting aroma all speak the language of care. Cook it for someone you love, and it becomes more than food—it becomes a memory.

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