Janitor Jim'S Goulash
A hearty and flavorful goulash with pasta, ground beef, and bold seasonings, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put macaroni or seashell pasta in a saucepan.
- Add water 1 to 2 inches above the pasta and bring to a boil.
- Add butter and 1 tablespoon salt; bring to a rolling boil.
- Let the macaroni sit in this water solution, covered, off of the heat for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or cream cheese to the goulash once it’s combined. If you’re out of elbow macaroni, seashell pasta works just as well. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adjust the spices according to your taste, especially if you enjoy heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Janitor Jim's Goulash with a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for extra flavor. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs nicely with this dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. It’s even better the next day as the flavors meld!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Janitor Jim'S Goulash contains roughly 587 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1280mg per serving (56% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the goulash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when ready to serve. This dish is perfect for meal prep and tastes great after a day in the fridge as the flavors develop.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
Feel free to add diced bell peppers, corn, or even spinach to the goulash for added nutrition and flavor. These vegetables can be sautéed with the onion before adding the ground beef, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, Janitor Jim's Goulash can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or microwave.
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).