The Best Texas Goulash

Texas Goulash square

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare, look no further than Texas Goulash. This comforting meal combines ground beef, pasta, and a medley of vegetables, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Ok, friends, let’s explore the ins and outs of this delicious recipe, including its ingredients, preparation steps, and pairing suggestions.

Texas Goulash is a versatile and hearty dish that can be paired with various side dishes to create a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables, enhancing its rich flavors. For more recipe ideas and pairings, check out our other delicious recipes on our site.

side view Texas Goulash

What is Texas Goulash?

Texas Goulash is a hearty, one-pot meal that combines ground beef, pasta, and vegetables in a savory tomato-based sauce. Evolving from the traditional Hungarian goulash, this American version uses ground beef and elbow macaroni, making it similar to a casserole or pasta dish.

The flavor profile includes the richness of beef, the tanginess of tomatoes, the mild heat of green chilis, and the sweetness of corn, all enhanced by Italian seasoning and cumin. Melted cheddar cheese adds a creamy finish.

This dish is highly versatile, allowing for substitutions like ground turkey or plant-based meat, and the addition of various vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini. It’s nutritionally balanced, offering protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. Texas Goulash is also convenient for batch cooking and meal prep, as it can be stored and reheated easily.

Culturally, Texas Goulash reflects American culinary ingenuity, adapting traditional recipes to local tastes. It’s a comforting meal often associated with family gatherings, embodying the warmth and togetherness of home-cooked dinners. Overall, Texas Goulash is a beloved, adaptable dish that continues to satisfy and nourish those who enjoy it.

Pairing Suggestions for Texas Goulash

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp and refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the hearty nature of Texas Goulash.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich goulash.

Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans provides a nutritious balance to the dish.

ingredients for Texas Goulash

Texas Goulash Ingredients

Ground beef: Provides the protein base and a rich, savory flavor.

Uncooked elbow macaroni: Adds texture and absorbs the delicious flavors of the dish.

Onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Garlic, minced: Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic qualities.

Italian seasoning: Brings a mix of herbs that complement the other ingredients.

Tomatoes, diced: Adds freshness and acidity to balance the flavors.

Frozen corn: Introduces a touch of sweetness and texture.

Tomato sauce: Provides a rich, tangy base for the sauce.

Green chilis: Adds a mild heat and Southwestern flair.

Cumin: Infuses the dish with a warm, earthy spice.

Beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and helps cook the pasta.

Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into the dish, adding creaminess and a cheesy finish.

Oil: Used for sautéing the meat and vegetables, adding richness.

overview image for Texas Goulash

How to Make Texas Goulash

Making Texas Goulash is straightforward and can be done in under 30 minutes. Here’s how:

  1. Heat the oil: In a large pan or skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the beef and vegetables: Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions have softened.
  3. Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, green chilis, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  4. Add the pasta and broth: Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth. Stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
  5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  6. Add the cheese: Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top and let it melt into the goulash. Simmer for another few minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Texas Goulash!

Tips for Making Texas Goulash

Here are some useful tips to ensure your Texas Goulash turns out perfect every time:

  • Use lean ground beef: This reduces the amount of grease and makes the dish healthier.
  • Cook pasta until al dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft and mushy.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more spices or herbs to suit your preference.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables for better flavor and texture.
  • Let it rest: Allow the goulash to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
close up of Texas Goulash

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Texas Goulash ahead of time?

Yes, Texas Goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Can I freeze Texas Goulash?

Absolutely! Texas Goulash freezes well. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute can be used instead of ground beef. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the dish.

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Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure all the vegetables are tender.

Have you tried making Texas Goulash? If so, make sure to rate and review this recipe! Your feedback helps others enjoy this dish just as much as you did. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, Texas Goulash is sure to be a hit. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal with your loved ones!

Yield: 4

Texas Goulash

Texas Goulash square

Hearty and flavorful, Texas Goulash is a classic comfort food. This one-pot wonder combines ground beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce for a satisfying meal. Packed with bold flavors and perfect for busy weeknights, it's a dish the whole family will love.

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
  • 8 oz diced tomatoes
  • ⅔ cup frozen corn
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 4 oz Can diced green chilis
  • ½ tsp Cumin
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp oil

Instructions

  1. In a pan/skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, onion and garlic and cook until the meat is browned and the onions have softened.
  3. Add in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, green chilis, cumin, salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Add in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add the cheddar cheese and simmer for another few minutes until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted.
  6. Garnish and Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 613Total Fat: 37gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 129mgSodium: 760mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 4gSugar: 8gProtein: 42g

These nutritional calculations might not be accurate. Please speak with a licensed nutritionist to assist you.