Oven Goulash
A hearty baked macaroni dish with savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and topped with crispy fried onions, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except the French fried onions in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with French fried onions, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. This dish can easily be adapted to include other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Oven goulash is a hearty meal that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. You can also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a fun twist, try topping it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of additional cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the goulash in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, covered to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Goulash contains roughly 616 calories, with 19g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2937mg per serving (128% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the goulash mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add the French fried onions just before the final 5 minutes of baking to keep them crispy.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade version using a roux, milk, and sautéed mushrooms or use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor. This will still give you a creamy consistency.
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).