Cheesy One Pot American Goulash: Comfort Food Delight

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Cheesy One Pot American goulash is a delightful twist on a classic and has become my go-to meal for busy weeknights. This hearty dish combines pasta, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce into one comforting pot. It’s the kind of dish that not only warms the belly but also fills the heart with nostalgia. Perfect for family dinners, this easy, cheesy one-pot meal is bound to be a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy One Pot American

This cheesy one-pot dish is loved for many reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cleanup, which is excellent for busy evenings. Secondly, it combines familiar flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it a family-friendly cheesy one-pot dish. Thirdly, it’s packed with protein from the ground beef and cheese, ensuring everyone feels satisfied. This recipe also allows for creativity with ingredients, so you can adjust it to your liking. Furthermore, it’s gluten-free if you choose the right pasta, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, it’s a one-pot comfort food American recipe that provides warmth and comfort during cozy dinners.

Ingredients for Cheesy One Pot American

Gather these items:

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)

How to Make Cheesy One Pot American Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 lbs ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned (7-10 min). Drain excess fat. Add 1 large chopped yellow onion and cook until softened (5-7 min), scraping up any browned bits.
Step 2: Add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Push beef/onion aside, add 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste to the cleared space, and cook for 2-3 minutes until darkened. Stir paste into beef mixture.
Step 3: Stir in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, 1 (14.5 oz) can undrained diced tomatoes, 4 cups beef broth, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Season with 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes for flavors to deepen.
Step 4: Uncover and stir in 1 lb uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Bring back to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring every 2-3 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Adjust consistency with more broth/water if needed.
Step 5: Remove from heat. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional). Cover for 2-3 minutes to melt. Stir until cheese is fully incorporated and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy One Pot American

Keep these in mind:

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
Feel free to substitute with turkey or a plant-based option for a cheesy one-pot vegetarian option.
For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Make sure to stir frequently when cooking the macaroni to prevent sticking.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy One Pot American

Consider these serving ideas:

Pair it with a fresh side salad to balance the richness.
Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Top with additional cheese and broil for a golden crust.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy One Pot American

To store, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up. This makes for an effortless meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy One Pot American

What is a cheesy one-pot meal?

A cheesy one-pot meal is a hearty dish that combines various ingredients, such as pasta, protein, and cheese, cooked together in one pot for easy preparation and cleanup. This one-pot American recipe is a prime example of that!

Can I make Cheesy One Pot American ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. It’s perfect for quick cheesy one-pot recipes on busy nights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy One Pot American?

To prevent common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente when finished, as it will continue to cook slightly while resting. Also, adjust the seasoning to taste after adding the cheese for a perfect balance.

Cheesy One Pot American Goulash: Comfort Food Delight - Cheesy One Pot American - additional detail

Variations of Cheesy One Pot American You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, try these variations:

Swap the elbow macaroni for penne or rotini for different textures.
Add in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
For a spicy kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or chili powder.
Make it a one-pot cheesy chicken American recipe by substituting ground beef with cooked shredded chicken.

For more delicious recipes, check out Cheeseburger Pie or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a delightful twist on comfort food!

If you want to explore more about the benefits of one-pot meals, visit Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for a quick and easy dinner solution.