Dried Beef Goulash

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Eastern European

A hearty and savory goulash featuring dried beef, tomatoes, and macaroni, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and a satisfying gravy.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small jar dried beef, cut up
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 can tomatoes
  • 3 Tbsp. flour
  • 3 Tbsp. shortening
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper
  • 8 oz. macaroni

Instructions

  1. Brown the dried beef and flour in shortening.
  2. Add chopped onion, canned tomatoes, and water.
  3. Cook until a gravy is formed.
  4. Add salt and pepper.
  5. Cook macaroni in 2 quarts of boiling water with salt and pepper until tender.
  6. Drain the macaroni.
  7. Add the drained macaroni to the gravy mixture and combine.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider browning the dried beef for a few extra minutes. You can substitute the dried beef with leftover roast beef or even shredded chicken if preferred. If you want to add some vegetables, try incorporating bell peppers or mushrooms to the gravy for additional texture and nutrients. Adjust the seasoning to taste for a more personalized flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty goulash with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed green beans. For a comforting twist, consider topping each serving with shredded cheese or fresh parsley. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the gravy. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but if needed, heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Dried Beef Goulash contains roughly 314 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2264mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).

314 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.9g 16% DV
Total Fat 18.3g 23% DV
Carbs 30.3g 11% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 3.5g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2264.3mg 98% DV
Potassium 207.8mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 8.4mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 46mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 27.8mg 31% DV
Calcium 99mg 8% DV
Iron 1.6mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! This goulash can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating the dish will allow the flavors to meld even more, making it taste just as good, if not better, the next day.

What can I use instead of macaroni?

If you're looking for a different pasta option, you can substitute macaroni with penne, fusilli, or even egg noodles. Each variety will bring its own texture to the goulash, making it a versatile dish suitable for various pasta preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the goulash for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove for best results.

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).

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