Western Goulash
Hearty and flavorful Western Goulash combines ground beef, vegetables, and tomatoes, served over macaroni. Perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine hamburger, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and minced garlic in a skillet and cook until the onion is clear and the hamburger is browned.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add remaining ingredients—hominy, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce—to the skillet and transfer everything to a large pot.
- Cook on low heat until heated through, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add other seasonings like chili powder, beef bouillon, bay leaf, or oregano as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some Worcestershire sauce or a splash of hot sauce to the skillet while cooking the meat. You can also substitute the hominy with kidney beans or black beans if you prefer. If you want a creamier texture, stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Western Goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley or shredded cheese for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a simple salad, such as Boston Bean Salad(Perfect For A Potluck), to balance the dish. For a heartier meal, consider adding some crusty bread for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Western Goulash contains roughly 798 calories, with 27g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. 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 make Western Goulash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Western Goulash a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze Western Goulash?
Absolutely! Western Goulash freezes well. After cooking, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add heat to your Western Goulash, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a spoonful of chili powder during cooking. You can also top each serving with hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
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).