Low-Budget Goulash(Quick And Easy)
A budget-friendly, hearty goulash packed with savory ground beef, tomatoes, and cheesy macaroni. This quick and easy dish offers comforting flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It pairs well with green beans and garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked.
- Boil the macaroni noodles until al dente, then drain.
- Add the cooked macaroni, stewed tomatoes, cheese sauce mix, chili seasoning, and kidney beans (if using) to the cooked meat.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve hot with green beans and garlic bread on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding chopped bell peppers or onions when browning the ground beef. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. If you're short on time, use a pre-packaged chili seasoning mix instead of measuring individual spices. This dish is versatile, so feel free to incorporate other pantry staples you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
This goulash is delicious served with green beans and garlic bread on the side. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with recipes like Super Salisbury Steaks for a comforting dinner spread. You might even want to top it with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. If you want to freeze it, ensure it's completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Budget Goulash(Quick And Easy) contains roughly 668 calories, with 41g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (116% of the Daily Value), protein (82% of the Daily Value), and iron (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1618mg per serving (70% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the goulash a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of macaroni?
If you don’t have macaroni on hand, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the shape you choose, as different pasta types may require varying cooking durations.
Can I add vegetables to this goulash?
Absolutely! This goulash is very versatile, and adding vegetables can enhance both the flavor and nutrition. Consider adding frozen corn, peas, or diced zucchini during the simmering step. This not only adds color but also increases the dish's heartiness.
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).