Mississippi Goulash

Prep: 10 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A hearty, cheesy casserole with flavorful ground beef, peppers, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold southern-inspired flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. hamburger
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 green pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 Tbsp. red cayenne pepper
  • 2 cans Ro-Tel brand tomatoes, diced
  • 2/3 c. rice, cooked
  • 1 1/2 c. sharp shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the hamburger until browned; drain excess fat.
  2. In the same skillet, add chopped onion, chopped green pepper, diced Ro-Tel tomatoes, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes.
  4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well.
  5. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat.
  7. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheese on top to melt, then serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onion and green pepper until caramelized before adding them to the hamburger. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. Additionally, feel free to swap the Ro-Tel tomatoes with any diced tomatoes or even add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat. This dish is versatile and accommodates many preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Mississippi Goulash is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also pairs well with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad. Consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. For a complete meal, it complements dishes like Ham And Vegetable Cream Soup or a Festive Layered Salad, creating a balanced dinner spread.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in a covered bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; just ensure it's completely cooled before freezing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mississippi Goulash contains roughly 1769 calories, with 49g protein, 292g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (211% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2991mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

1769 kcal 88% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 49.1g 98% DV
Total Fat 57.5g 74% DV
Carbs 291.9g 100% DV
Fiber 32.9g 100% DV
Sugar 24.1g 48% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2991.1mg 100% DV
Potassium 2559.6mg 54% DV
Cholesterol 18.2mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1901mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 94.6mg 100% DV
Calcium 367.8mg 28% DV
Iron 16.4mg 91% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
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 Mississippi Goulash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Mississippi Goulash ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the cheese, let it cool, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and add the cheese for a quick meal.

What can I use instead of rice in this recipe?

If you want to replace rice, consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Pasta can also be a great substitute, adding a different texture to the dish while still being filling.

Is there a vegetarian version of Mississippi Goulash?

Absolutely! You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative like textured vegetable protein (TVP). Use vegetable broth instead of meat for added flavor, and follow the same cooking instructions for a delicious meatless dish.

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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