Macaroni And Ground Beef Goulash
A hearty and flavorful American dish combining ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni, perfect for comforting family dinners with savory and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and green pepper in a skillet.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions and drain thoroughly.
- Add the canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the cooked macaroni and cook for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked meat mixture into the macaroni and tomato sauce.
- Toss everything together and serve while hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or using diced tomatoes with herbs. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef can be a great alternative. You can also swap elbow macaroni for any pasta shape you prefer. For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. This dish is a comforting classic in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty goulash hot, garnished with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light coleslaw to balance the richness. It's also great for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the goulash in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry. You can also microwave individual portions in a covered dish for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Ground Beef Goulash contains roughly 645 calories, with 13g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1308mg per serving (57% 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 freeze macaroni and ground beef goulash?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the goulash?
Consider adding Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce for a kick. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish. You can also mix in some grated cheese before serving for a cheesy twist. Experiment with spices such as paprika or Italian seasoning to elevate the flavors.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To lighten this goulash, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, substitute whole wheat macaroni for a healthier pasta option. Adding more vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, can also increase the nutritional value while keeping the dish satisfying.
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).