Name: Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash – Your New Favorite Meal!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 recommended); 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste; 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 1 pound elbow macaroni (uncooked); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, a testament to culinary ingenuity born from necessity, and an undeniable crowd-pleaser that I absolutely adore. Have you ever craved that ultimate comfort food that tastes like home, requires minimal cleanup, and satisfies even the most ravenous appetites? Look no further! This isn’t your traditional Hungarian goulash, laden with paprika and beef stewed for hours; instead, our American rendition takes inspiration from hearty, budget-friendly dishes often referred to as “American Chop Suey” or “Slumgullion,” popularized during challenging economic times. It’s a dish cherished across generations for its ability to transform simple pantry staples – ground meat, pasta, and tomatoes – into something truly extraordinary.

People absolutely adore this dish because it perfectly blends savory, rich flavors with the creamy indulgence of melted cheese, all conveniently simmered together in a single pot. The convenience is unmatched, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights, while its robust flavor profile and comforting texture make it a staple at family gatherings. When you’re seeking maximum flavor with minimal fuss, our Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash truly delivers. Get ready to discover your new go-to recipe that promises both deliciousness and ease!

Ingredients:

Slumgullion stirs up memories of cozy family dinners and humble beginnings. This hearty blend of pasta, ground beef, and rich tomato sauce has been filling hungry bellies for generations. It’s the kind of meal that proves the best comfort food doesn’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Just enough to get our flavor party started!
1.5 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 recommended): The star of our protein show, providing that satisfying, savory foundation.
1 large yellow onion, chopped: Aromatic goodness, adding a subtle sweetness and depth to our rich sauce.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything is better with garlic, especially in hearty comfort food like our Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash.
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste: This concentrated gem adds an intense, rich tomato flavor that’s crucial for the authentic “rich tomato sauce” mentioned in the heritage of Slumgullion.
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The backbone of our sauce, giving it body and a lovely, rustic texture that feels homemade.
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Smoother than crushed tomatoes, it helps create that velvety consistency we’re looking for, enveloping every piece of pasta.
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: For a little extra chunkiness and bright tomato bursts in every bite, adding complexity to our “rich tomato sauce.”
4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred): Our liquid gold, cooking the pasta and infusing everything with deep, savory notes, contributing significantly to the one-pot method.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon for umami, adding a mysterious depth that makes you want more, elevating the overall flavor profile of our goulash.
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: A classic blend that brings all those familiar, comforting Italian-American flavors we associate with a hearty pasta and meat dish.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Just a touch to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance their natural sweetness, creating a perfectly rounded flavor.
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors. We’ll adjust at the end to ensure perfection!
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: A gentle warmth to complement the other seasonings, adding a pleasant kick.
1 pound elbow macaroni (uncooked): The perfect shape for cradling that delicious sauce and ground beef, making it an ideal choice for American Goulash.
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Our primary “cheesy” component, melting into pure, gooey perfection and giving our Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash its signature appeal.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra stretch): If you’re feeling extra decadent and want that perfect cheese pull that elevates the comfort factor even more!
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A vibrant pop of color and freshness, completely optional but highly recommended for a final flourish.

Building the Flavor Base for Our Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash

Alright, let’s dive into making this incredible Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash! The beauty of a one-pot meal is truly unmatched – fewer dishes to wash, and all those glorious flavors get to mingle and marry in the most delightful way right from the start. We’re going to build layers of flavor, ensuring every bite of our modernized Slumgullion is deeply satisfying and bursting with taste.

Heat the Olive Oil and Brown the Beef: Grab your largest, heaviest-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – this is going to be our magic vessel for creating this one-pot masterpiece. I personally like to use a 6-quart or 7-quart pot to ensure there’s plenty of room for all the goodness without overcrowding. Place it over medium-high heat and add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough, toss in the 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef. Break it up with a sturdy wooden spoon or a spatula. We want to get a really good sear on this beef, so let it brown beautifully, crumbling it as it cooks. Don’t be afraid to let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a nice, deeply browned crust before breaking it up further. This browning step is absolutely crucial for developing deep, savory flavors through the Maillard reaction, which gives the beef a rich, complex taste that forms the foundation of our goulash. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, typically about 7-10 minutes.
Drain Excess Fat (If Necessary): Lean ground beef usually doesn’t leave too much excess fat, but if you notice a significant amount pooled at the bottom of the pot, it’s a good idea to drain most of it off. You can carefully tilt the pot and spoon out the fat, or transfer the beef to a colander positioned over a heat-safe bowl, then return it to the pot. Leaving too much fat can make the goulash greasy, but a little bit is perfectly fine for flavor and richness.
Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped 1 large yellow onion to the pot with the browned beef. Stir well, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pot – those are pure flavor waiting to be incorporated into our sauce! Cook the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has softened and become translucent. You’ll notice the aroma starting to fill your kitchen, a sure sign that we’re on the right track to a wonderfully fragrant base.
Add the Garlic and Tomato Paste: Now, add the 4 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Stir it in quickly and cook for just about 1 minute, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the delicate balance of flavors. Immediately after the garlic becomes fragrant, push the beef and onion mixture to one side of the pot, creating a cleared space. Add the entire 6-ounce can of tomato paste to this cleared space. Let the tomato paste cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing it to caramelize slightly and darken in color. This step is incredibly important as it deepens the tomato flavor immensely, transforming it from bright and acidic to rich, concentrated, and complex, a technique often used in classic sauces to build a profound and savory base for our “rich tomato sauce.”
Combine and Deglaze: Once the tomato paste has had a chance to cook down and deepen in color, stir it thoroughly into the beef, onion, and garlic mixture. Allow everything to combine and cook together for another minute or so, allowing the flavors to meld. At this point, the bottom of your pot might still have some lovely browned bits stuck to it, which is exactly what we want! These will release as we add our liquids, contributing another layer of rich, savory flavor.

Simmering the Rich Tomato Sauce

With our flavor base firmly established, it’s time to bring in the “rich tomato sauce” elements that define our Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash. This is where the dish truly begins to take shape, transforming from individual components into a cohesive, mouth-watering experience. The addition of liquids and seasonings will create the perfect environment for our pasta to cook directly in the sauce, cementing its one-pot status and ensuring every strand absorbs maximum flavor.

Introduce the Tomatoes and Liquids: Pour in the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, the 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, and the 14.5-ounce can of undrained diced tomatoes. Give everything a good, thorough stir, making sure all the ingredients are well combined. Then, add the 4 cups of beef broth and the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. The beef broth will provide the necessary liquid for our pasta to cook perfectly and will add another layer of savory depth to the sauce. Worcestershire sauce, while a small addition, is a powerful secret ingredient that punches up the umami without overpowering the dish, making the flavors pop.
Season the Sauce: Now, it’s time to truly season our burgeoning goulash. Stir in the 2 teaspoons of dried Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. The sugar is not meant to make the goulash sweet, but rather to cut through the natural acidity of the tomatoes and balance all the flavors beautifully, making the tomato taste even brighter and more rounded. Taste a tiny bit of the sauce (be very careful, it’s hot!) and adjust the seasonings if you feel it needs a little more salt or pepper at this stage. Remember, you can always add more later, but you can’t take it out, so start cautiously!
Bring to a Simmer and Develop Flavors: Bring the entire mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of our trusty pot. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with its lid, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes. This simmering time is absolutely crucial for allowing all the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming individual ingredients into a harmonious “rich tomato sauce.” You’ll notice the sauce becoming thicker and more fragrant – this is the magic happening, where the “rich tomato sauce” truly develops its character. This step also ensures the ground beef is tender and thoroughly infused with all the wonderful spices. Don’t rush this part; patience here will be greatly rewarded in the final, complex taste of your goulash.

Cooking the Pasta and Adding the Cheesy Finish

Now for the magical moment: adding the pasta directly into our wonderfully flavorful sauce. This is what truly makes it a “one-pot” wonder, allowing the macaroni to absorb all the deliciousness as it cooks, resulting in a dish that’s incredibly cohesive and flavorful. And of course, we can’t forget the generous “cheesy” part of our Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash!

Add the Uncooked Macaroni: Uncover the pot and give the sauce another good, vigorous stir. Now, add the 1 pound of uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the simmering sauce. Make sure to stir it thoroughly so that all the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. It’s vital that the pasta is completely immersed to cook evenly and prevent any pieces from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot. If, by chance, it looks like there isn’t quite enough liquid to generously cover the pasta, you can add another half cup of beef broth or even just hot water, but typically the existing liquid should be sufficient, especially since the pasta will release starches that will help thicken the sauce.
Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the macaroni is al dente (tender but still has a slight bite to it). This timing can vary based on your specific pasta brand and desired texture, so keep an eye on it. It’s incredibly important to stir the goulash every 2-3 minutes during this cooking process. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking throughout. If you skip stirring, you might end up with a sticky, clumpy mess at the bottom, and nobody wants that! Keep an eye on the consistency; if it starts to become too thick too quickly, add a splash more broth or water to reach your desired sauciness. We’re aiming for a hearty, thick sauce, but definitely not a dry one.
Check for Doneness and Consistency: Once the pasta is cooked to your liking – remember, al dente is usually preferred for goulash – remove the pot from the heat. The goulash should be thick and saucy, with the macaroni perfectly cooked and infused with all the rich flavors. Taste and adjust the seasonings one last time. This is your final chance to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a touch more Italian seasoning if you feel it needs it. Remember, cooking the pasta directly in the sauce means it will absorb some of the seasoning, so a final taste test and adjustment is always a good idea to achieve perfect balance.
Stir in the Cheese: This is where our “Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash” truly lives up to its name and reaches peak comfort food status! Sprinkle in the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and, if using, the 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the hot goulash. Immediately place the lid back on the pot for about 2-3 minutes. The residual heat will work its magic, melting the cheese into a glorious, gooey, and irresistible blanket over our rich and hearty pasta.
Serve and Garnish: Remove the lid and stir the melted cheese into the goulash until it’s fully incorporated and wonderfully creamy. The sharp cheddar adds a robust, tangy flavor and a smooth texture, while the mozzarella brings that desirable stretchiness and extra layer of mild creaminess. Serve hot, directly from the pot! This truly is a complete meal in one go. For an extra touch of freshness and vibrant color, I often like to sprinkle a bit of fresh chopped parsley over individual servings. This simple garnish adds a bright contrast to the richness of the goulash. A side of crusty bread for dipping into that luscious sauce, or a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette, would complete this comforting meal perfectly. Enjoy every single spoonful of this homemade, one-pot goodness that pays homage to the humble origins of Slumgullion!

This Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash, inspired by the cozy memories and humble beginnings of Slumgullion, is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that truly nourishes the soul. It stands as a testament to the idea that some of the best comfort foods don’t require fancy techniques or exotic ingredients. With its savory ground beef, deeply rich tomato sauce, perfectly cooked pasta that has absorbed all those wonderful flavors, and a generous blanket of melted cheese, it’s a dish that embodies everything we love about classic American home cooking. The unparalleled convenience of a one-pot preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is short, yet its hearty, flavorful profile is special enough to be the star of a casual family gathering or a comforting weekend dinner. I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this timeless classic as much as I do, and that it brings warmth and smiles to your table.

One of the fantastic aspects of this recipe is its inherent adaptability. While I’ve provided a specific list of ingredients and precise steps, feel free to tweak it to your family’s unique preferences and what you have on hand. For example, if you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in with the garlic would be a delightful addition, adding a welcome warmth without overpowering the other flavors. If you’re looking to sneak in some extra vegetables for added nutrition and texture, finely diced carrots or bell peppers could be added alongside the onion; they’ll have ample time to soften beautifully into the sauce, becoming almost imperceptible to picky eaters. This Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash also makes for truly excellent leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen and meld, developing an even richer complexity. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of extra beef broth or water if it seems too thick after refrigeration. This recipe is designed to be forgiving, robust, and infinitely customizable, allowing you to create your perfect version of this beloved, hearty classic that will become a cherished part of your family’s meal rotation.

I find immense satisfaction in creating dishes that are both incredibly delicious and wonderfully practical, and this Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash fits the bill perfectly. It’s a beautiful reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be a joyful and fulfilling act of creating something truly nourishing and comforting for those you care about most. From the moment the olive oil hits the hot pot and the ground beef begins to sizzle, through the fragrant sautéing of onions and garlic, to the final, glorious moment when the cheese melts into a velvety embrace, every step of this recipe is a pleasure. It truly embodies the spirit of home cooking – simple ingredients transformed into something hearty, deeply flavorful, and utterly delicious with minimal fuss. I hope this detailed guide helps you recreate a truly wonderful meal that brings warmth, contentment, and many smiles to your table, just as it consistently does to mine.

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it, folks! My incredibly comforting and delightfully easy recipe for Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash. I truly believe this dish is a weeknight warrior’s dream come true, offering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. If you’re looking for a meal that warms you from the inside out, satisfies even the pickiest eaters, and leaves you with hardly any dishes to wash, then you absolutely must give this a try. I poured my heart into perfecting this balance of savory meat, tangy tomato, and rich, gooey cheese, ensuring every spoonful delivers that quintessential comfort food experience we all crave.

What makes this goulash so special, you ask? It’s that perfect harmony of savory ground meat, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and of course, that generous blanket of gooey, melted cheese. Every spoonful is an explosion of classic comfort food flavors, harking back to childhood memories while still feeling fresh and exciting. It’s a dish that transcends generations, bringing a smile to everyone at the table. And the ‘one-pot’ aspect isn’t just a marketing gimmick – it genuinely transforms meal prep and cleanup. Imagine serving up a hearty, homemade dinner that tastes like you spent hours slaving over a hot stove, when in reality, it came together in under 45 minutes, all in a single pot. That, my friends, is pure magic, giving you back precious time to spend with your loved ones, or simply to relax after a long day.

Now, while this goulash is a complete meal in itself, I always love to round out the experience with a few simple additions. A crisp, green side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors, adding a delightful crunch and brightness. Don’t forget some crusty bread or garlic knots for soaking up every last bit of that amazing sauce – trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop! The combination of soft, cheesy pasta and warm, crusty bread is truly irresistible. For an extra touch of indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top can elevate the presentation and add another layer of flavor. And for those who like a little kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can really wake things up, providing a welcome contrast to the creamy cheese.

One of the things I adore most about this recipe is its incredible versatility. Feel free to make it your own! If ground beef isn’t your preference, ground turkey or even Italian sausage would make fantastic substitutes, offering slightly different flavor profiles that are equally delicious. For an extra boost of veggies and nutrients, sauté some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a handful of fresh spinach along with the onions and garlic – they blend seamlessly into the sauce. You could experiment with different cheeses too – a sharp cheddar, a Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious, each offering a unique twist on the classic. And while elbow macaroni is classic, penne or rotini would work just as well if that’s what you have on hand, ensuring you can still make this incredible dish even if your pantry isn’t fully stocked. Don’t be afraid to play around with the seasonings either – a pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a touch of chili powder can add wonderful depth and complexity to the flavor profile, making it truly bespoke to your taste.

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to add this Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash to your meal plan this week. I promise it will become a new family favorite, a go-to recipe for those busy evenings when you crave something truly satisfying and incredibly simple. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, creating warm memories around the dinner table. When you do try it, please come back and tell me all about your experience! Did you make any exciting variations? What did your family think? Share your photos on social media with a tag, or drop a comment below. Your feedback and creativity inspire me, and I love hearing how my recipes brighten your kitchen and simplify your meal times. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

FAQs

What exactly is American goulash?

Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, which is more of a rich stew, American goulash is a hearty, comforting pasta dish. It typically combines ground beef, a tomato-based sauce, and macaroni, often finished with plenty of cheese. It’s a classic, no-fuss meal loved for its simplicity and satisfying flavor, perfect for a busy weeknight.

Can I prepare Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! While it’s delicious fresh off the stove, you can certainly prepare this goulash a day in advance. Cook it completely, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as the pasta tends to absorb liquids. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

How do I store leftovers and how long do they last?

Leftovers of this delightful Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash store wonderfully! Transfer any remaining goulash to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For best results, I recommend portioning it into individual servings for quicker reheating. Just be aware that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so the consistency might be thicker upon reheating.

Can I freeze American goulash?

Yes, you can! This American goulash freezes quite well, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Allow the goulash to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra liquid if needed to reach your desired consistency.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash?

While our Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash is a complete meal on its own, I love pairing it with a simple side to balance the richness. A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is always a fantastic choice. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or even a side of coleslaw can also make excellent companions!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and works beautifully in this recipe, feel free to get creative with your pasta choice. Penne, rotini, medium shells, or even ditalini would all be excellent alternatives. Just ensure they are a similar size to elbow macaroni so they cook evenly and integrate well with the sauce. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes might have slightly varied cooking instructions.

How can I make this goulash healthier?

There are several easy ways to lighten up this Cheesy One-Pot American Goulash! You can swap out the ground beef for leaner ground turkey or even ground chicken. Increase the vegetable content by adding more diced onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach during the cooking process. You could also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber and reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety. These small adjustments can make a big difference without sacrificing flavor!