Grandma Van Drie'S Goulash
A hearty, cheesy beef and tomato casserole with tender macaroni, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers craving rich flavors and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Combine the cooked ground beef, onion, celery, canned tomatoes, and tomato soup in a Dutch oven or large pot.
- Slice Velveeta cheese and layer it on top of the mixture.
- Simmer on the stove for approximately 1 hour, or transfer to a crock-pot and cook on low for 5 to 8 hours.
- About 20 minutes before serving, boil macaroni until tender, then drain.
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the beef and tomato mixture.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you're out of Velveeta, any creamy cheese that melts well can be used, such as Monterey Jack or a blend of sharp cheddar. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add beans for extra protein and fiber.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty goulash with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Kathryn'S Liver And Onion Gravy for a comforting dinner spread. You can also offer additional grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who like a cheesier dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the goulash in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a safe dish, covering it to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Van Drie'S Goulash contains roughly 315 calories, with 13g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 856mg per serving (37% 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, this goulash can be prepared a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.
What can I serve with goulash?
Goulash is quite filling on its own, but it pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside garlic bread or biscuits to soak up the savory sauce. You might also consider offering a side of pickles or a tangy coleslaw for contrast.
Can I freeze leftovers from this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the goulash for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
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).