Aunt Lucy'S Goulash
A hearty, cheesy ground beef and macaroni goulash with savory tomato flavor, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions and green peppers in 2 tablespoons of butter in an electric skillet.
- Pour in one large can of tomato juice and bring to a boil.
- Add a box of elbow macaroni and bring to a boil again.
- Pinch up ground lean beef and drop into the boiling tomato juice mixture.
- Cover and cook until all liquid is absorbed and ingredients are cooked through.
- Top with Velveeta cheese and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, you can add garlic or Italian seasoning to the sautéed onions and peppers. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. For a creamier texture, stir in some sour cream before serving. Leftover tomato juice can also be used in soups or sauces, so don’t discard it!
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Lucy's Goulash can be served with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables. You could also serve it alongside Quick And Easy Beans for a filling dinner that the whole family will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the mixture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lucy'S Goulash contains roughly 1604 calories, with 4g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 173g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Simply cook the goulash, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can use cheddar or Monterey Jack for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of chopped vegetables or canned beans for protein. Adding lentils or mushrooms can give the goulash a hearty texture while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
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).