Memphis Goulash

Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

A hearty, flavorful goulash blending ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners with a touch of Southern flair.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef, sauteed and drained
  • 1 chopped onion, sauteed in 1 Tbsp. oil
  • 1 c. elbow macaroni, cooked
  • 1 (1 lb.) can tomatoes
  • 1 (1 lb.) can kidney beans
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1/2 c. Cheddar cheese, cubed

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients to a pot.
  2. Simmer for about 20 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a heartier version, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked macaroni. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use vegetarian beans for a meatless dish. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth. This dish is reminiscent of American recipes that focus on comfort and simplicity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Memphis Goulash hot, garnished with additional Cheddar cheese if desired. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a classic side dish like coleslaw or cornbread, reminiscent of the comfort found in dishes like Veg-All Beef Casserole.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. This dish maintains its flavor well, making it great for meal prep.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Memphis Goulash contains roughly 1170 calories, with 59g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), protein (117% of the Daily Value), and calcium (78% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2954mg per serving (128% of the Daily Value).

1170 kcal 59% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 58.6g 100% DV
Total Fat 55.3g 71% DV
Carbs 114.6g 42% DV
Fiber 33g 100% DV
Sugar 10.9g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2953.9mg 100% DV
Potassium 2023.1mg 43% DV
Cholesterol 112.5mg 37% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 411.9mcg 46% DV
Vitamin C 63.5mg 71% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 1014.7mg 78% DV
Iron 11.3mg 63% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 Memphis Goulash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Memphis Goulash ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be reheated easily and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian Memphis Goulash, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply use more beans and vegetables. Canned lentils or chickpeas work well, and you can enhance the flavor with additional spices or vegetable broth.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While Cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting properties and flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. For a creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top before serving.

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).

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