One Pan American Goulash

American Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the family together. This One Pan American Goulash is an ideal choice for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Its combination of savory ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce makes it a deliciously satisfying meal. Plus, the one-pan preparation means less cleanup, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, this dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with familiar tastes that appeal to everyone, this recipe is sure to please picky eaters.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
• Leftover Friendly: This goulash reheats beautifully, perfect for lunch the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand can make all the difference when preparing this dish. Here’s what you’ll need to create your One Pan American Goulash.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Lid

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A sturdy skillet allows for even browning of the meat and mixing of ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring thorough mixing.
• Lid: A lid helps trap steam and heat, speeding up cooking time for the pasta.

Ingredients

American Goulash is an easy and delicious dinner recipe the whole family enjoys!

For the Meat Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 diced onion
• 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper
• 1 tsp each of onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

• 1 TBSP Worcestershire sauce
• 1 TBSP minced garlic
• (2) 8 oz cans of tomato sauce
• 15 oz can of diced tomatoes

For Cooking

• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/2 cups of beef broth
• 2 cups of elbow macaroni

For Topping

• shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pan American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef along with the diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once browned, drain any excess grease from the meat. Add minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Incorporate the two cans of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni into the skillet.

Step 3: Simmer Together

Stir all ingredients thoroughly. Place bay leaves on top before letting it bubble. Lower the heat to medium-low and cover with a lid to retain moisture.

Step 4: Cook Until Done

Allow it to cook for about 12-15 minutes or until pasta is tender and liquid has reduced. Remove bay leaves before giving it another good stir.

Step 5: Serve with Cheese

Serve hot and generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before enjoying your meal!

Step 6: Enjoy!

Dig in! Let me know if you try this comforting One Pan American Goulash!

How to Serve One Pan American Goulash

Serving One Pan American Goulash is simple and fun! This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in Bowls: Ladle the goulash into deep bowls for a comforting and hearty meal.
• Top with Cheese: Add a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor.

Family Style

• Large Serving Dish: Transfer the goulash to a large serving dish and let everyone help themselves.
• Garnish Options: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for a pop of color.

Creative Twists

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for a fun, casual dining experience.
• Over Rice: For a different texture, serve the goulash over a bed of fluffy rice.

How to Perfect One Pan American Goulash

To make your One Pan American Goulash even better, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season the meat well while browning. This adds depth to the dish.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and onions for more vibrant flavors compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of broth slightly or simmer longer before serving.
• Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color in your goulash.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan American Goulash

Pairing side dishes with your One Pan American Goulash can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this delightful meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up goulash and adds crunch.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the goulash.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans steamed lightly add color and nutrition without overwhelming the meal.
4. Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins offer a delightful texture and flavor that pairs well with savory dishes.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the goulash.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that complements the main dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pan American Goulash, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season the meat and vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt, pepper, and spices at the beginning of cooking.
• Using the wrong pasta: Choosing a pasta type that takes longer to cook can result in uneven textures. Stick with elbow macaroni for this recipe for consistent cooking.
• Skipping the bay leaves: Bay leaves add depth and flavor but can be forgotten. Remember to add them during cooking for enhanced taste.
• Not stirring enough: If you don’t stir the ingredients regularly, they may stick or burn. Ensure you stir well throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the pasta too long will make it mushy. Check for doneness after 12-15 minutes and taste for perfect texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store One Pan American Goulash in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pan American Goulash

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating One Pan American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, usually about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, at medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is One Pan American Goulash?

One Pan American Goulash is a hearty dish made with ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and spices cooked all in one skillet.

Can I customize One Pan American Goulash?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or switch proteins based on your preference.

How do I know when my goulash is done?

The goulash is ready when the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed. Taste it to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare One Pan American Goulash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use.

What should I serve with One Pan American Goulash?

It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

One Pan American Goulash is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that your family will love. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone together!