Zucchini Goulash
A hearty, flavorful zucchini goulash combining ground beef, pasta, fresh zucchini, and tomatoes, seasoned perfectly for a comforting family meal with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 package macaroni and cheese dinner ⓘ
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch cubes ⓘ
- 4 medium tomatoes, peeled and quartered ⓘ
- 1/2 to 1 package taco or spaghetti seasoning mix ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional) ⓘ
- 1/4 cup margarine ⓘ
- 1/4 cup milk ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook macaroni as directed on the package, adding the zucchini cubes and peeled tomato quarters during cooking.
- Drain the cooked macaroni, zucchini, and tomatoes.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain off excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Add the cooked macaroni, zucchini, and tomatoes to the beef.
- Add pepper, brown sugar (if using), margarine, milk, and seasoning mix to taste.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also replace margarine with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free option. If you prefer more spice, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Stir in some shredded cheese at the end for an extra creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Zucchini Goulash is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a simple garden salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. It also makes a great filling for stuffed peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in individual portions until heated through. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Goulash contains roughly 588 calories, with 8g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the goulash ahead of time. Cook as directed, then cool and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as some alternatives may require less time to cook.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or spinach to the goulash for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose, ensuring they are tender before serving.
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).