Meat Goulash
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender ground beef, beans, corn, and spaghetti simmered in a spicy tomato juice base. This comforting dish combines bold chili powder with savory ingredients, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings that enjoy a touch of spice and richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, salt, pepper, and chopped onion; mix well.
- Brown the mixture in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add red beans, corn, spaghetti, tomato juice, and chili powder to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 to 45 minutes until flavors meld and spaghetti is cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce. If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked spaghetti to reduce cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light vegetable dish or a bowl of Negative Calorie Soup for balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Goulash contains roughly 584 calories, with 29g protein, 129g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (357% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2167mg per serving (94% 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 meat in this goulash?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground beef if you're looking for a leaner option. Alternatively, you could try using pork or a combination of meats for added flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary based on the meat you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make this meat goulash gluten-free, simply use gluten-free spaghetti or another type of pasta made from rice or quinoa. Additionally, make sure that any canned ingredients, like beans and tomato juice, are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dish without gluten concerns.
How can I add more spice to the goulash?
If you're looking for extra heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also top the finished dish with hot sauce or serve with a side of spicy pickles. For a different flavor profile, try incorporating chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
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).