Green Bean Goulash
A hearty and savory green bean goulash combining smoky bacon, tender green beans, tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet until bacon is crispy and vegetables are softened.
- Drain excess fat and remove from heat.
- Add the two cans of green beans (drained) and two cans of whole tomatoes (including juice) to the skillet.
- Season with garlic powder and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for a few minutes to combine flavors.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and allow it to melt before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of paprika. If you're out of green beans, feel free to substitute with fresh or frozen beans. Using diced tomatoes with herbs can elevate the taste even further. For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing.
Serving Suggestions
This Green Bean Goulash pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a heartier meal. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or can be served alongside a simple salad. For a complete dinner, consider serving it with Easy Meatloaf for a comforting American meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain the texture of the green beans.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Bean Goulash contains roughly 1474 calories, with 60g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 103g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (121% of the Daily Value), calcium (116% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2295mg 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 fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used! Blanch them first to ensure they cook evenly in the goulash. Adjust cooking time as needed since fresh beans may require a longer simmer to soften.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a substitute for bacon, try using turkey bacon or diced ham for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, sauté with olive oil and add smoked paprika for a smoky taste without the meat.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the goulash in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
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).