Girl Scout Goulash
Girl Scout Goulash is a hearty, savory dish combining ground meat, beans, corn, and spaghetti in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick family meal, it offers comforting flavors with a touch of southwestern flair, especially when served with warm cornbread. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground meat and chopped onion in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add the remaining ingredients: Ranch Style beans, Franco American spaghetti, drained whole kernel corn, and tomato sauce.
- Simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, preferably with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adding spices like paprika or chili powder can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of tomato sauce or add a spoonful of tomato paste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting goulash hot, ideally accompanied by cornbread for a classic pairing. It also goes well with a side of Cold Vegetable Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Traditional Southern Fried Okra, which adds a delightful crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until hot. This dish also freezes well; just thaw and reheat for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Girl Scout Goulash contains roughly 578 calories, with 53g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (105% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), and iron (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2306mg per serving (100% 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 different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Ranch Style beans are a great choice, you can easily substitute them with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture. Just be sure to drain and rinse them if using canned varieties to reduce sodium content.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when mixing in the other ingredients. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick.
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead of time can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together. Prepare it according to the recipe and let it cool before refrigerating. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to serve.
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).