American goulash

Here’s a classic recipe for American Goulash — a comforting, hearty pasta-and-beef dish popular in the U.S. 🇺🇸🍲

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American Goulash

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional)

• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes

• 1–2 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions:

1. Cook the beef:

   • In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add ground beef, cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Add vegetables:

   • Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

3. Add tomatoes & seasoning:

   • Pour in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.

   • Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer.

4. Cook pasta:

   • Stir in uncooked macaroni. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

   • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth.

5. Add cheese (optional):

   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top, cover, and let it melt for 2–3 minutes before serving.

6. Serve:

   • Serve hot, with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

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Tips & Variations:

• 🥕 Extra veggies: Add carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrition.

• 🌶️ Spicy kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

• 🧀 Cheesy twist: Mix in some mozzarella or Parmesan with the cheddar for extra gooeyness.

• 🥣 One-pot convenience: Everything can be cooked in a large Dutch oven for easy cleanup.

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If you want, I can also give a slower-cooked, more “stew-like” version of American Goulash that’s even richer and saucier. Do you want that version?