American Goulash (also called American Chop Suey) is a cozy, one-pot comfort food—very different from Hungarian goulash. It’s tomato-based, hearty, and weeknight-friendly.
Classic American Goulash Recipe
Serves: 4–6
Time: ~35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works well)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but very common)
Instructions
- Brown the beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned. Drain excess fat. - Add aromatics & seasoning
Stir in garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant. - Build the sauce
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and sugar (if using). Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. - Cook the pasta
Stir in uncooked macaroni. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender. - Finish
Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in cheese if using until melted.
Serve
- Great on its own or with buttered bread
- Even better the next day
Popular Variations
- Cheesy Goulash: Mix in 1–2 cups cheddar or Colby-Jack
- Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn
- Spicy: Red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce
- Healthier: Use ground turkey and whole-wheat pasta
If you want, I can tailor it—slow cooker version, Midwest-style, extra saucy, or close to a childhood favorite.
