Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef, browned
- 1 can stewed or diced tomatoes (undrained), mashed up with a fork or potato masher
- 1 can tomato soup
- 1 package sloppy joe seasoning
- A few pinches of parsley
- Cooked macaroni (about 3/4 of a 16 oz box)
Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Mash up a can of stewed or diced tomatoes with their juices using a fork or potato masher. Add the mashed tomatoes to the browned ground beef.
- Add Tomato Soup and Sloppy Joe Seasoning:
- Stir in 1 can of tomato soup and the entire package of sloppy joe seasoning into the skillet with the beef and tomatoes.
- Season with Parsley:
- Add a few pinches of parsley to the mixture for added flavor. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Let the goulash mixture simmer on low heat while you cook the macaroni. This allows the flavors to meld.
- Cook Macaroni:
- Cook about 3/4 of a 16 oz box of macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain when done.
- Combine Goulash and Macaroni:
- Once the macaroni is cooked, stir it into the simmering goulash mixture. Ensure the macaroni is well-coated with the sauce.
- Simmer Together:
- Let the goulash and macaroni simmer together for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle.
- Serve and Enjoy! 🥄
- Dish out your mom’s delicious goulash onto plates or into bowls. This recipe makes a good-sized amount, perfect for feeding the family or having leftovers for the next day.
- Optional Garnish:
- Consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- Note:
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste. This recipe is versatile, so you can customize it based on your preferences.
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for the ground beef.
- Is there a substitute for sloppy joe seasoning?
- You can make your own seasoning blend using ingredients like paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a bit of sugar. Adjust quantities to taste.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
- Certainly! You can use fresh tomatoes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to allow them to break down and release their juices.
- How long should I let the goulash simmer?
- Let it simmer for at least 10-15 minutes after combining all the ingredients to allow the flavors to meld. Longer simmering can enhance the taste.
- Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Yes, this goulash reheats well, so you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- What can I serve with Mom’s Goulash?
- Serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Can I freeze the goulash?
- Yes, you can freeze the goulash for later use. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat when ready to eat.
- How can I adjust the spice level?
- If you want to control the spice level, start with half of the sloppy joe seasoning and adjust according to your taste preference.
- Is this recipe kid-friendly?
- Many kids enjoy the flavors of goulash. If you’re concerned about spice, you can use a mild sloppy joe seasoning.
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand.
- What’s the difference between goulash and American chop suey?
- Goulash is a dish with variations in different cuisines. The American version, often called American chop suey, typically includes ground meat, tomatoes, and macaroni.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, use gluten-free macaroni and ensure that the tomato soup and sloppy joe seasoning are gluten-free.
- Can I add vegetables to the goulash?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Sauté them with the ground beef.
