Easy American Goulash Recipe

Easy American Goulash Recipe

Some recipes instantly feel like home, and this easy American Goulash recipe is one of those family favorites.

I first shared this recipe years ago after calling my mom for her famous goulash recipe. Since then, life has changed, but I couldn’t bring myself to remove that memory. Every time I make this simple ground beef and macaroni dinner, I’m reminded of family dinners around the table and the little cooking tips she always shared.

If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that’s hearty, budget-friendly, and ready in about 20 minutes, this American Goulash is one you’ll make again and again. This one-pot American Goulash is a family dinner recipe made with simple pantry ingredients you probably already have on hand.

July 2013 version: “My mom made Goulash quite often when I was a kid. Its the meal I always request when I go home although I rarely make it in my own house. Last night it sounded wonderful so I called up mom and got the recipe. Its so simple that it only take 15 minutes to make.”

This homemade American Goulash is an old-fashioned American Goulash recipe that’s simple, hearty, and perfect when you need an easy ground beef dinner. It’s classic comfort food that tastes even better the next day.

One family tip I still follow? Use Campbell’s Tomato Soup. My mom always insisted it gave this recipe its signature flavor, and honestly… I agree.

Ingredients

½–1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 pound ground beef

1 pound elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions

1 can Campbell’s Condensed Tomato Soup

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 (15-ounce) can stewed tomatoes (or diced tomatoes)

1 medium onion, chopped

½–1 teaspoon salt

½–1 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make American Goulash

Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat. Season with the salt, pepper, and garlic powder while cooking.

Drain the excess grease (I usually give mine a quick rinse to remove even more fat).

Stir in the tomato soup, tomato sauce, and stewed tomatoes. Heat until hot and bubbly.

Fold in the cooked macaroni and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Serve warm with buttered bread and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

?? Ready in about 20 minutes

? Easy one-pot family dinner

? Budget-friendly ingredients

? Great for meal prep

?? Tastes even better the next day

????? Kid-approved comfort food

?? Classic old-fashioned comfort food

Whether you call it American Goulash, old-fashioned goulash, or simply a family favorite, this easy one-pot dinner is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s budget-friendly, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.

What to Serve with American Goulash

This easy ground beef dinner pairs perfectly with fresh bread, vegetables, or a crisp side salad for a complete family meal

• Buttered bread
• Garlic bread
• Roasted green beans
• Side salad
• Steamed vegetables
• Corn on the cob

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze American Goulash?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

How long will leftovers last?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I use diced tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes?

Absolutely! Either works great in this recipe.

What pasta works best?

Classic elbow macaroni is traditional, but shells or rotini also work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This homemade American Goulash is perfect for meal prep because the flavors get even better overnight. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat for an easy family dinner the next day.