Cheesy Baked Goulash Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal, look no further than this Cheesy Baked Goulash Recipe. A classic comfort dish, this goulash combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato sauce, all baked to perfection under a melty blanket of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you want to enjoy a warm and comforting meal. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Goulash

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a large family or simply preparing meals ahead for the week, this baked goulash is an easy and affordable option. The combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese, makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that you can make with simple pantry ingredients and a few minutes of prep.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheesy Baked Goulash:

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides the savory, meaty base for the dish.
• ⅔ cup chopped onion: Adds flavor and sweetness when sautéed with the beef.
• Black pepper to taste: A basic seasoning to enhance the beef’s flavor.
• 2 teaspoon minced garlic: Adds a subtle but crucial flavor to the sauce.
• 1 cup dry elbow macaroni pasta: A staple for goulash, but feel free to use any short pasta if you don’t have macaroni.
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: The rich, tangy base of the sauce.
• 1 can of diced tomatoes: Adds texture and a little extra acidity to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances out the acidity of the tomatoes and sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses a warm, earthy flavor into the dish.
• 2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: A mild herb that complements the other flavors.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Offers a sharp, creamy contrast to the tomato sauce.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that perfect melted, stretchy topping.

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Tools

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large skillet or frying pan for browning the beef
• Medium pot for boiling the pasta
• Casserole dish (2-quart) for baking the goulash
• Colander for draining the pasta
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Cheese grater (if grating your own cheese)

Having these tools on hand ensures a smooth cooking process and makes preparation easier.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheesy Baked Goulash

1. Preheat the Oven and Boil the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, set a pot of salted water to boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the elbow macaroni and cook until it is almost al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. This ensures the pasta finishes cooking perfectly in the oven later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. As the beef starts to brown, add the chopped onions and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Season with black pepper to taste. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring frequently to release its flavor. If necessary, drain off any excess grease from the pan.

3. Make the Tomato Sauce

With the beef and onions cooked, it’s time to create the flavorful tomato sauce. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano, basil, and parsley. Allow this mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the herbs infuse into the sauce and the flavors meld together.

4. Mix in the Cheese

If you want an extra cheesy goulash, now is the time to stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese should melt into the sauce, adding a creamy texture. Once the cheese is fully incorporated, add the cooked macaroni and stir everything together until evenly combined.

5. Assemble and Bake

Transfer the beef, tomato, and pasta mixture into a lightly oiled 2-quart casserole dish. Spread the mixture evenly, then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. Rest and Serve

Once the goulash has baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors set and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your cheesy, savory baked goulash with family or friends!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Remember to cook the pasta until it’s almost al dente. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, and overcooking it initially can lead to mushy results.
• Forgetting to drain the grease: If your ground beef is on the fattier side, make sure to drain any excess grease after browning. Too much grease can make the goulash overly oily.
• Burning the cheese topping: Keep an eye on the cheese in the oven. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to make this recipe your own by adding or swapping ingredients:

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add vegetables: You can bulk up the dish by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
• Try different cheeses: Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even gouda for a unique twist on the cheesy topping.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Baked Goulash pairs beautifully with simple side dishes. Consider serving it alongside:

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for dipping
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or zucchini

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, this goulash stores well in both the fridge and freezer.

• To refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
• To freeze: Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs About Cheesy Baked Goulash

• Can I use different pasta? Yes! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use penne, rotini, or any other short pasta you have on hand.
• How can I make this recipe spicier? For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce, or use spicy shredded cheese.
• Can I make this goulash ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare the goulash up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Cheesy Baked Goulash Recipe Tips

• For a creamier sauce, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or sour cream before adding the pasta.
• If you like extra cheese, you can sprinkle a little more cheddar and mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Goulash Recipe is the perfect solution when you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will be a hit. The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese makes every bite irresistible. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more easy and delicious meal ideas!

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