Mom'S Old-Fashioned Goulash
A hearty, nostalgic American goulash combining ground turkey and beef with pasta, tomatoes, and corn, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground turkey, ground beef, and chopped onion with seasoned salt until fully cooked.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cooked meats and onion mixture.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and half of the cheese.
- Simmer the mixture until heated through, then top with the remaining cheese.
- Serve hot once the cheese has melted and the flavors are well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic and bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or use a mix of both meats. You can also replace the tomato sauce with diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mom's Old-Fashioned Goulash with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with other hearty dishes like Chow Mein Hot Dish (Makes 12 To 16 Servings) for a comforting family dinner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan can elevate the presentation and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, or warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Old-Fashioned Goulash contains roughly 570 calories, with 36g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (73% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 984mg per serving (43% 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 different types of meat in this goulash?
Absolutely! You can mix and match different meats, such as ground chicken or even sausage, to suit your taste. Just ensure that the total weight remains around 2 pounds for the best texture and flavor balance.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or a homemade sauce from diced tomatoes and seasonings can work well. You can also blend in a bit of barbecue sauce for a unique twist on flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Alternatively, serve with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to control the spice level.
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).