Ma'S Goulash
Ma'S Goulash is a hearty, comforting casserole blending savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a rich tomato flavor and cheesy goodness that appeals to all ages, making it an easy, satisfying meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Drain and discard grease.
- Combine cooked macaroni, drained tomatoes, and half of the grated cheese with the ground beef mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or try adding diced zucchini for extra veggies. For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños. Don't forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper before baking for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ma'S Goulash with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This hearty dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw. For a comforting finish, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of apple pie. It is a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, reheating at 350°F until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ma'S Goulash contains roughly 199 calories, with 11g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1995mg per serving (87% 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?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, ensuring it's al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat. Add extra veggies like mushrooms and spinach for added texture and flavor, ensuring to adjust the seasoning to taste.
How can I make this more saucy?
If you prefer a saucier goulash, consider adding a can of tomato sauce or diced tomatoes along with the drained whole tomatoes. You can also stir in a little beef or vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency before baking.
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).