Best Spicy American Goulash Recipe

A Hearty, Flavorful, One-Pot Classic with a Kick!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Recipe Category: Main Dish
Recipe Cuisine: American
Aggregate Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5 from 128 reviews)

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Description

This Spicy American Goulash is the perfect one-pot comfort food. Packed with ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, spicy tomato-based sauce, this dish comes together in under 45 minutes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity and bold flavors.

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Ingredients

For the Goulash:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 3 cups (720ml) beef broth
• 1.5 cups (150g) elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Toppings:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Sour cream

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

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Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add chopped onion, garlic, and diced green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef.
2. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

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Step 3: Build the Flavor

1. Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.

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Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

1. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

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Step 5: Adjust and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Ladle the goulash into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, parsley, or sour cream if desired.

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Pro Tips

• Customize the Heat: Adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes to your spice tolerance.
• Make It Cheesy: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy twist.
• Leftover Love: This dish tastes even better the next day! Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 620mg

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen over time, so this dish is perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely! Let the goulash cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.

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Keywords:

spicy American goulash, one-pot goulash, comfort food recipes, easy weeknight dinners, spicy pasta recipes

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