Gala'S Goulash
Gala's Goulash is a hearty, cheesy dish featuring seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, and tender macaroni, all coated in a creamy tomato and cheese sauce with a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers comforting flavors with a touch of spice and warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic powder in a skillet.
- Drain the mixture well to remove excess fat.
- Add tomato soup and Velveeta cheese to the beef mixture.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Stir in cinnamon and red kidney beans.
- Coat warm cooked macaroni with margarine or butter.
- Serve the meat sauce over the prepared macaroni.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when mixing in the Velveeta cheese. If you're out of kidney beans, black or pinto beans can be used as substitutes. You can also add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Adjust the cinnamon based on your taste preference, as it adds a unique sweetness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple coleslaw. This dish also makes a fantastic potluck option, as it can be easily doubled.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gala'S Goulash contains roughly 1274 calories, with 21g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 982mg per serving (43% 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 use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as lean meats can cook faster than beef. Just ensure the meat is cooked through before adding the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply omit it and add extra beans or lentils for protein. Substitute vegetable broth for the tomato soup to maintain flavor while keeping it vegetarian.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the beef. You can also stir in some hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper with the tomato soup for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
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).