American Goulash
American Goulash combines tender macaroni with savory ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese, baked to perfection for a comforting, family-friendly meal with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions and drain well.
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet.
- Add cooked and drained macaroni, salt, pepper, canned tomatoes, and tomato soup to the meat mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix bread crumbs with melted margarine and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Grate American cheese and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. You can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta types like shells or penne. If you're looking for a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken can easily replace the beef. Enhance the dish with additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve American Goulash with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the meal. It also pairs beautifully with Ruth'S Western Barbecued Beans for a heartier spread. For a family-friendly option, consider serving with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of American Goulash contains roughly 292 calories, with 17g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1612mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare American Goulash a day in advance. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I use instead of American cheese?
If American cheese isn't available, cheddar or mozzarella are great alternatives. For a stronger flavor, consider sharp cheddar. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, there are excellent vegan cheese substitutes that melt well.
Is it possible to freeze American Goulash?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil and store for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).