Texas Cowboy Goulash
A hearty, flavorful Texan-inspired dish combining cheesy macaroni with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and corn, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare macaroni and cheese as directed on the package.
- Set aside.
- Brown ground hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Stir in chili powder.
- Add chopped tomatoes with juice.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add drained corn and stir.
- Pour the meat mixture into the macaroni and cheese and mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk to the macaroni and cheese before mixing in the meat mixture. If you want to amp up the flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef. For a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with a can of black beans or lentils. This dish can also be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Cowboy Goulash with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Mrs. Will Johnson'S Barbecue Sauce for a flavor boost. For a fun twist, top with shredded cheese or crushed tortilla chips before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Cowboy Goulash contains roughly 360 calories, with 16g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1033mg per serving (45% 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 instead of macaroni?
Yes, you can use any small pasta shape like penne or shell pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the sauce well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and macaroni separately, then combine them before serving. This makes for easy assembly when you're ready to eat. Just store the components in the fridge and mix them when you're ready.
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).