Macaroni Goulash
Macaroni Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender elbow macaroni combined with savory ground turkey, stewed tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a perfect family meal or casual dinner option for those craving a flavorful, filling pasta dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until firm as directed on the package.
- In a 4-quart pot, brown the ground turkey and chopped onion together.
- Drain excess fat and liquid from the cooked turkey and onion.
- Add stewed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, ketchup, and salt to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve hot, optionally with a side salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, you can substitute ground turkey with ground beef or even a plant-based meat alternative. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the garlic powder to taste. Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried oregano for added freshness. To enhance the dish, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Macaroni Goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of warm garlic bread or a hearty piece of crusty bread.
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 low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce's consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Goulash contains roughly 578 calories, with 14g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (169% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (131% of the Daily Value), and calcium (98% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1725mg per serving (75% 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 a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the chosen pasta to achieve the desired texture.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for added protein. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed 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).