Easy Skillet Goulash
A hearty, cheesy skillet dish combining ground beef, creamy soups, corn, olives, and pasta, perfect for quick weeknight dinners with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Return the cooked hamburger to the skillet.
- Add tomato soup, mushroom soup, and tomato sauce to the meat and stir until mixture thickens.
- Mix in drained corn, green olives, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain.
- Add the cooked pasta to the meat and vegetable mixture.
- Stir until everything is well combined, then sprinkle additional grated Cheddar cheese on top and let melt before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onion. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger meat for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a creamier texture, mix in a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Skillet Goulash pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For an added crunch, serve with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips on top. It's also a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Skillet Goulash contains roughly 1268 calories, with 58g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (116% of the Daily Value), calcium (104% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2261mg per serving (98% 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 goulash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the goulash a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until the end, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
What can I substitute for the elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni, you can use any small pasta shape like penne, shells, or rotini. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, consider substituting with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the hamburger meat with a plant-based meat substitute or omit it entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based products in the soups.
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).