One Pan American Goulash

American Goulash is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This simple yet flavorful dish combines ground beef, pasta, and savory seasonings into a hearty dinner that everyone will love. With minimal cleanup and quick preparation, One Pan American Goulash stands out as an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze after a satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to suit dietary preferences.
• Comfort Food Classic: This dish delivers warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers.
• Hearty and Filling: A balanced mix of protein, carbs, and flavors ensures everyone leaves the table happy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient. With just a few essential items, you can whip up this delicious One Pan American Goulash without any hassle.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat and cooking pasta simultaneously in one pan.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate seasoning for optimal flavor.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping onions and garlic.

Ingredients

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

Protein & Vegetables

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 diced onion

Seasonings & Sauces

• 1/2 tsp each of salt and pepper
• 1 tsp each of onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning
• 1 TBSP Worcestershire sauce
• 1 TBSP minced garlic

Base Ingredients

• (2) 8 oz cans of tomato sauce
• 15 oz can of diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/2 cups of beef broth
• 2 cups of elbow macaroni
• shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make One Pan American Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating your large skillet over medium heat.
1. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet.
2. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika while cooking until the meat is browned.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once the meat is browned:
1. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
2. Stir in minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Add both cans of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni to the mixture.

Step 3: Simmer Together

After mixing well:
1. Place the bay leaves on top of the mixture.
2. Allow it to start bubbling before reducing heat to medium-low.
3. Cover with a lid and let it simmer.

Step 4: Cook Until Done

Allow the goulash to cook:
1. For about 12-15 minutes or until pasta is cooked through and liquid has reduced.
2. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor:
1. Serve hot to enjoy this comforting meal!
2. Don’t forget to share your experience!

How to Serve One Pan American Goulash

Serving One Pan American Goulash is simple and enjoyable. This hearty dish is loved by families, making it perfect for any dinner table. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve with warm garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls can soak up the delicious sauce.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch.
• Garden Salad – Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the goulash.

Garnish and Extras

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions bring color and a mild onion flavor.

How to Perfect One Pan American Goulash

Perfecting One Pan American Goulash involves a few key tips to enhance its flavors. Follow these suggestions for an even better dish.

• Bold Seasoning – Adjust the seasonings if you like more flavor; add extra paprika or Italian seasoning.
• Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for high-quality ground beef and fresh tomatoes for the best taste.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – To avoid mushy pasta, cook it just until it’s firm, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the goulash to sit for a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for One Pan American Goulash

Pairing side dishes with One Pan American Goulash can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans complement the dish well.
2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob adds a nice crunch and sweetness.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich goulash.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are great for dipping into the goulash sauce.
5. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs flavors and rounds out the meal nicely.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing One Pan American Goulash, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to properly season the ground beef and onions can lead to bland flavors. Always season your ingredients as you cook for better taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the elbow macaroni too long will result in mushy pasta. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
• Not stirring enough: If you don’t stir the mixture well, it may stick to the bottom of the pan. Make sure to stir frequently to avoid burning.
• Skipping the bay leaves: Leaving out bay leaves means missing out on depth of flavor. Always add them for that rich taste, but remember to remove them before serving.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor-quality canned tomatoes can affect overall flavor. Choose good-quality brands for the best results.
• Rushing the simmering process: Skipping proper simmering can lead to uneven cooking and insufficient flavor blending. Allow it to simmer gently covered for optimal results.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow goulash to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing One Pan American Goulash

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pan American Goulash

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place goulash in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until hot. Add a splash of broth if it looks dry.

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, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup.

How long does it take to prepare One Pan American Goulash?

The total time is approximately 35 minutes, including both prep and cook time.

Can I customize my One Pan American Goulash?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or substitute different types of meat according to your preference.

Is One Pan American Goulash healthy?

It can be made healthier by using lean ground beef and adding more vegetables. Adjusting portions can also help manage calorie intake.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure you have a large enough pan and adjust cooking times as needed.

Conclusion

One Pan American Goulash is not only easy to prepare but also deliciously satisfying. Its versatility allows for numerous customizations based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. Give it a try today and enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone together at the table!

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