Shante'S Goulash
A hearty, cheesy goulash with flavorful pepperoni, seasoned hamburger, and rich sauces, perfect for satisfying family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the elbow macaroni.
- Fry the hamburger with onions and green peppers until browned; drain excess fat.
- Mix cooked macaroni with spaghetti sauce and cheese sauce.
- Add cooked hamburger mixture and sliced pepperoni to the pasta and sauce mixture.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the cheese sauce. If you prefer a little spice, try adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the hamburger mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with cooked lentils or black beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty goulash with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds a nice touch. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine or a light beer, making it perfect for casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shante'S Goulash contains roughly 534 calories, with 26g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value) and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1191mg per serving (52% 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 goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the goulash in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
To boost the nutritional value, consider adding chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the hamburger mixture. These vegetables blend well and enhance the flavor while increasing fiber and vitamins. You can also opt for whole wheat elbow macaroni for added health benefits.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, Shante's Goulash is kid-friendly due to its familiar flavors and comforting texture. The combination of macaroni, cheese, and mild spices makes it appealing to younger palates. You can also adjust the amount of pepperoni to suit their taste.
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).