Macaroni Scramble (Goulash) Recipe
Description: This nostalgic recipe, passed down from my grandmother, holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of cherished family dinners. A comforting blend of elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a medley of vegetables, simmered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey cheddar cheese, this Macaroni Scramble, also known as Goulash, is perfect for potlucks, busy weeknights, or whenever you crave a hearty and satisfying meal. With a hint of sweetness from brown sugar and a kick of spices like chili powder and paprika, every bite is bursting with flavor.
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Recipe Category: Meat
Keywords: Potluck, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 603.9
- Fat Content: 28.6g
- Saturated Fat Content: 15.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 119mg
- Sodium Content: 1135.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 41.2g
- Fiber Content: 4.1g
- Sugar Content: 10.1g
- Protein Content: 32.9g
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 8 oz |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Lean ground beef | 2 lbs |
| Garlic | 3 cloves |
| Onions | 2 large |
| Green pepper | 1 |
| Tomato sauce | 2 cups |
| Mushrooms (optional) | 2 cups |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 4 cups |
| Chili powder | 1 tbsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Brown sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ground pepper | To taste |
| Dry sherry | 1/4 cup |
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, chop the green pepper, and slice the mushrooms if using fresh.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, chopped green pepper, and sliced mushrooms if using fresh. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.
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Brown Ground Beef: Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the lean ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
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Seasoning: Sprinkle the browned ground beef with chili powder, paprika, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and ground pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the spices to toast and release their flavors, about 2-3 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato sauce and dry sherry to the skillet, along with the cooked elbow macaroni. If using canned mushrooms, add them at this stage as well. Stir everything together until well combined.
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Assemble Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 3-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface.
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Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Alternatively, for even more flavorful results, refrigerate the assembled casserole overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Final Touch: If refrigerated overnight, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven preheats. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the cheese is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
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Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the Macaroni Scramble (Goulash) from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish with your loved ones.
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Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
From family gatherings to casual weeknight dinners, this Macaroni Scramble (Goulash) is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home, just as it has been in mine. Gather around the table and savor the delicious memories with each comforting bite! 🍲✨
