Hungarian Gulyas(Ground Beef Version)

Prep: 10 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Hungarian

Savory Hungarian Gulyás with tender beef, hearty potatoes, aromatic onions and a rich tomato base—perfect for a comforting family meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb ground beef or chuck
  • 2 large potatoes, sliced
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 cup tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with 1/2 cup water
  • garlic salt to taste (optional)
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. Grease a casserole dish.
  2. Layer half of the potatoes, onions, ground beef, tomatoes mixed with water, salt and pepper.
  3. Repeat the layers and finish with a top layer of tomatoes.
  4. Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until the potatoes are tender.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with some chopped garlic and spices before layering. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer more vegetables, add layers of bell peppers or carrots. Don't hesitate to use leftover roasted tomatoes or tomato sauce as a flavorful base, just as you might in other beef recipes.

Serving Suggestions

This Hungarian Gulyas pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a nice creaminess. For a heartier option, serve it alongside traditional dumplings or rice. It also makes a great filling for wraps or stuffed vegetables, similar to how you might use Real Mince Meat.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, or microwave in individual portions until warm. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hungarian Gulyas(Ground Beef Version) contains roughly 1019 calories, with 16g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), potassium (68% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 760mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

1019 kcal 51% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 15.6g 31% DV
Total Fat 44.6g 57% DV
Carbs 139.8g 51% DV
Fiber 13g 46% DV
Sugar 5.6g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 760mg 33% DV
Potassium 3205.6mg 68% DV
Cholesterol 0.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 43.5mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 79.2mg 88% DV
Calcium 64.2mg 5% DV
Iron 3.4mg 19% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.

What can I substitute for tomatoes if I don't have any?

If you don’t have fresh tomatoes or tomato sauce, you can use canned diced tomatoes or even a splash of tomato paste mixed with water. These alternatives will still provide that necessary moisture and flavor, making it a versatile dish.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Hungarian Gulyas freezes very well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months; simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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).

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