Microwave Beef Goulash
A quick and hearty microwave beef goulash blending savory ground beef, Italian-style tomatoes, and pasta for a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble ground beef into a 3-quart casserole.
- Cover and microwave on High for 8 to 9 minutes, stirring after 4 minutes.
- Drain excess fat or liquid from the cooked beef.
- Stir in the stewed tomatoes, macaroni, tomato paste, hot water, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Cover and microwave for 10 minutes.
- Stir the mixture.
- Cover and microwave for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes until the macaroni is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier meal, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or shells. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, use lean ground turkey instead of beef. For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this goulash with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Macaroni And Cheese With Beef for a comforting dinner. For extra flavor, sprinkle grated cheese on top just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also add a splash of water to loosen the mixture if it appears too thick after refrigeration.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Beef Goulash contains roughly 109 calories, with 7g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% 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 frozen ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure to thaw it completely before crumbling it into the casserole. For quicker thawing, you can use the microwave's defrost setting, but cook it immediately after thawing.
How do I know when the macaroni is done cooking?
The macaroni is done when it is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stirring every 5 minutes helps to evenly cook the pasta. If you find it's still too firm after the suggested time, microwave it for additional minutes until it reaches your desired texture.
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the goulash a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the microwave when you're ready to serve. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
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).