Plain Ole Goulash
A hearty, comforting American-style goulash with ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato flavor, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil macaroni shells for 8 to 10 minutes, then drain.
- Saute chopped onion until tender.
- Cook ground beef until browned and drain excess fat.
- Mix tomato soup, tomatoes, onions, and ground beef together.
- Add cooked macaroni to the mixture.
- Simmer on low for about 10 to 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding bell peppers or garlic for extra flavor. If you prefer a leaner dish, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use whole wheat macaroni shells for a healthier option. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked or frozen vegetables can be a great addition to this hearty meal. Pair it with a side salad for balance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this goulash with a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for added richness. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light coleslaw. This dish also makes a great filling for wraps or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in individual servings until heated through. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to help it regain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Ole Goulash contains roughly 757 calories, with 40g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (99% of the Daily Value), protein (80% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 goulash in advance?
Absolutely! Goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for busy nights.
Can I freeze goulash?
Yes, goulash freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don’t have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Adding a bit of Italian seasoning or basil can help mimic the soup’s flavor. Alternatively, homemade tomato sauce can also be a flavorful substitute.
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).