Ken'S Goulash
Ken's Goulash is a hearty, cheesy dish with tender green peppers, olives, and flavorful hamburger, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook green pepper until tender.
- Add browned and drained hamburger, tomato sauce, water, chili powder, black pepper, dried onions, and garlic powder to the pan.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni for 12 minutes until al dente.
- Add cooked macaroni and chopped green olives to the hamburger mixture, stirring to combine.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on Ken's Goulash, feel free to swap the green pepper for diced celery or carrots for added sweetness. You can also replace the sharp cheese with a milder cheddar or a blend of cheeses if preferred. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or some diced tomatoes. Remember to check for seasoning after simmering, as the flavors may develop further.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ken's Goulash hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with Brother's Jalapeno Cornbread for a hearty meal. Consider a side of Elaine's Cauliflower Salad for a refreshing contrast, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry, to maintain a creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ken'S Goulash contains roughly 351 calories, with 15g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1016mg per serving (44% 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 turkey or chicken instead of hamburger in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger. These alternatives will provide a lighter flavor and are a great option for those looking for leaner protein. Just ensure they are browned and drained thoroughly before adding to the mixture.
What can I use if I don't have elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni, feel free to use any small pasta shape, such as shells, rotini, or penne. The cooking time may vary slightly, so adjust according to the package instructions to ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before combining it with the goulash.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of Ken's Goulash, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly if using.
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).