Spicy Goulash
A hearty, spicy goulash with rich tomato flavors, savory beef, and cheesy topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Cook ground hamburger in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
- Combine tomato soup, stewed tomatoes, and mushrooms in a bowl.
- Mix cooked macaroni and cooked hamburger into the tomato mixture; season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole dish with a lid or foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added spice, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the tomato mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile. This dish is versatile and can easily adapt to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spicy goulash hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Sweet Corn Casserole, which adds a delightful sweetness to balance the spice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. This will help maintain the texture of the pasta and cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Goulash contains roughly 353 calories, with 19g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 787mg per serving (34% 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 pasta?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure it's cooked al dente.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular macaroni. Additionally, check that your canned tomato products and any seasonings you use are certified gluten-free to ensure the entire dish meets gluten-free standards.
Can I add vegetables to this goulash?
Definitely! You can enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Sauté them with the hamburger or mix them into the tomato mixture for extra texture and 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).