Jessica'S Goulash
A hearty, comforting goulash with savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich tomato juice, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make ground beef into patties about the size of half dollars. Place in skillet with chopped onion; cook until the meat is done.
- Drain well. Add tomato juice, cooked elbow macaroni, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes or use whole wheat elbow macaroni for added nutrition. If you enjoy bold flavors, mixing in some chili powder or cumin can enhance the dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jessica's Goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for an extra touch. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a simple sandwich on the side or as a filling for stuffed peppers. This dish is also a great option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional tomato juice to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jessica'S Goulash contains roughly 573 calories, with 19g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 814mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this goulash?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, and season to taste since different meats have varying flavor profiles.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! To add more heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a flavorful kick that complements the tomato juice perfectly.
Can I freeze the goulash for later use?
Yes, this goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove 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).