Quick And Easy Goulash
A hearty, cheesy goulash featuring ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and mushrooms, perfect for a quick, satisfying family dinner with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown ground chuck with salt, pepper, and chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- Add canned tomatoes and mushrooms to the ground chuck mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add drained corn and cooked macaroni to the skillet.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in mozzarella and American cheese slices until melted and well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoning or garlic powder in the ground chuck mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground chuck with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also replace elbow macaroni with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For dessert, consider serving Lemon Icebox Cake for a refreshing finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions until heated through or warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Goulash contains roughly 644 calories, with 34g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1390mg per serving (60% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella and American cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, depending on your preference. Just ensure the cheese melts well and complements the flavors of the goulash.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when browning the ground chuck. You can also top the finished dish with hot sauce or serve with pickled jalapeños on the side.
Can I add vegetables to this goulash?
Absolutely! You can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions and ground chuck for a delicious variation.
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).