Ruth'S Goulash

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A hearty and comforting goulash featuring ground beef, macaroni, and vegetables, perfect for family dinners and satisfying hungry appetites with rich tomato flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 (8 oz.) pkg. elbow macaroni
  • 1 (16 oz.) can peeled tomatoes
  • 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 can green beans, drained
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic

Instructions

  1. Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet.
  2. Drain and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add vegetable oil and heat until hot.
  4. Add macaroni and brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  5. Add water to cover the macaroni and cook until done.
  6. Drain the cooked macaroni.
  7. Return the meat to the skillet with macaroni, then add peeled tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained green beans, salt, pepper, and garlic.
  8. Simmer until heated through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any pasta shape will work. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or use canned diced tomatoes instead of peeled tomatoes for a chunkier texture. For added nutrition, toss in some bell peppers or zucchini.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ruth's Goulash with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Homestead Goulash for a comforting dinner night. For a bit of crunch, top with crushed crackers or cheese just before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ruth'S Goulash contains roughly 227 calories, with 6g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (141% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2045mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).

227 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.5g 11% DV
Total Fat 9.1g 12% DV
Carbs 32.6g 12% DV
Fiber 6.8g 24% DV
Sugar 9.5g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2045.2mg 89% DV
Potassium 619.6mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 0.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 253.8mcg 28% DV
Vitamin C 127.1mg 100% DV
Calcium 52.7mg 4% DV
Iron 1.9mg 11% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

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 meat in this goulash?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked through.

What can I add to this recipe for more flavor?

Consider adding herbs like oregano or basil, or even a bay leaf during simmering for extra depth. A splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine can also enhance the flavor profile.

Is this goulash freezable?

Absolutely! You can freeze Ruth's Goulash in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir well to restore its creamy texture.

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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