Goulash More
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining macaroni, ground beef, vegetables, and tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni as directed on the package.
- Melt margarine in a large skillet.
- Add chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and ground beef; sauté until tender.
- Add tomato sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Combine the cooked macaroni and drained corn with the meat mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole or Pyrex pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, top with grated cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoning or garlic powder in the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape will work. Opt for low-sodium tomato sauce to control the salt content. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Goulash More with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine. For a comforting twist, try adding a dollop of sour cream on top before serving. This dish is also perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a great choice for entertaining.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of water if it appears dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goulash More contains roughly 412 calories, with 15g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (349% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (123% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. It also contributes 98g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the goulash in advance and assemble it in the casserole dish, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, or you can increase the baking time by a few minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian version of this dish. Just ensure that the cooking time remains consistent when using different proteins to ensure they are fully cooked.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. You can also use a spicy tomato sauce or add hot sauce before serving to cater 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).