Cheesy Beef Goulash

Okay, friends, let’s talk comfort food. I’m talking about that dish that just makes you feel good from the inside out. For me, it’s always been a good goulash. But this isn’t just *any* goulash; this is my Cheesy Beef Goulash. It’s like a hug in a bowl, but with pasta, savory beef, and a ridiculously delicious cheese sauce that my family goes absolutely wild for. If you love a good cheesy Pasta Bake or even something like a classic mac and cheese, you are going to *adore* this recipe. Trust me on this one!

What is Cheesy Beef Goulash?

So, what *is* Cheesy Beef Goulash exactly? Well, it’s essentially a hearty, one-pot meal featuring tender Ground Beef, perfectly cooked pasta (I always use elbow macaroni, but you can get creative!), a rich tomato-based sauce, and, of course, a generous helping of cheese. Think of it as a cross between a classic American goulash and a super-cheesy pasta bake. The name “goulash” comes from a traditional Hungarian stew, but this version has been thoroughly Americanized (and cheesified!) over the years. It’s simple, satisfying, and the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles on their faces. It’s a classic for a reason!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, where do I even begin? There are *so* many reasons to fall in love with this Cheesy Beef Goulash. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The savory beef combined with the tangy tomato sauce and the creamy, cheesy goodness is just an absolute winner. It’s a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and incredibly satisfying. Then there’s how easy it is to make. Seriously, this is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It comes together in one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash (hallelujah!). The ingredients are also super budget-friendly. Ground Beef is an inexpensive protein, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples that you probably already have on hand.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to your liking. Add your favorite veggies, swap out the cheese, or even use a different type of pasta. It’s totally adaptable and forgiving. I’ve been making this for years, and I’ve tweaked it so many times to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Plus, if you love this, you should also check out my recipes for Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake – it has similar vibes but a slightly different flavor profile. This Cheesy Beef Goulash is simply the best! My kids ask for it at least once a week!

How do I make Cheesy Beef Goulash?

Quick Overview

Making this Cheesy Beef Goulash is surprisingly straightforward. You’ll start by browning the Ground Beef and then adding onions and garlic for extra flavor. Then, you’ll stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite seasonings. Add the pasta, water or beef broth, and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through. Finally, stir in a generous amount of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both works great!) and let it melt into a gooey, delicious sauce. It’s that simple! The best part? You can easily adjust the cooking time and seasonings to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

What is the Cheesy Beef Goulash recipe?
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer lean ground meat, about 90% Lean).
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, or to taste
* 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
* 2 1/2 cups water or beef broth
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese or a combination of both.

How do I follow

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown GROUND BEEF over medium-high heat. How do you break up a cooked egg with spout or spoon? Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial because it gives the beef a nice, rich flavor that forms the base of the recipe.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook until onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. What is my favorite part about sautéing onion and garlic? Is it just smells good?

Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), dried oregano, dried basil, and salt. Salt, and pepper. How does the tomato sauce come together? Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking! I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Water (or Broth)

Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and water (or beef broth) to the pot. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is submerged in the liquid. If you’re using broth, it will add an extra layer of richness to the goulash. I’ve used both water and broth, and both work great. It just depends on what I have on hand!

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Combination of both. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. What makes this goulash so irresistible? I always add a generous amount, but you can adjust it to your liking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

What are some good ways to serve Cheesy Beef Goulash hot? What is the best way to serve fresh parsley or Sour Cream? What are some good side dishes to serve with a salad?

What should I serve it with?

This Cheesy Beef Goulash is pretty much a meal in itself, but sometimes it’s nice to have nutty flavor. Something on the side.What is a simple weeknight dinner?What’s a good salad with some olive oil? It provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the goulash. What are some healthy side dishes to serve with steamed green beans?What is a good cozy weekend meal?Crusty Bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. What are some good side dishes to serve with a side of coleslaw?For a potluck or gathering:What are some crowd pleasers recipes for Beef Goulash? Serve it with a variety of sides, such as corn on the cob, baked beans, and fruit salad. Don’t forget the desserts! Brownies, cookies, or a simple cake would be perfect. My family loves it with just a salad and garlic bread. What are some of the best leftovers?

How do I make cheesy beef goulash?

What are some tricks to make Cheesy Beef Goulash?How do I choose the right Ground Beef?I prefer using lean ground beef because it has less grease. If you prefer ground beef, you can use regular beef if you like. Just be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning.Don’t overcook the pasta. Eat itBe sure to cook the pasta until it’s just al dente. Is it okay to cook in the sauce? I always set a timer and check it frequently towards the end of the cooking time.Adjust the Seasonings to Your Liking: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the seasonings. I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor. My mother-in-law always added a bay leaf, and it really did add a certain *something.*

Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is what makes this goulash so special, so be sure to use a good quality cheddar and mozzarella cheese. I prefer to shred my own cheese because it melts more evenly than the pre-shredded stuff.

Let it Rest: After you stir in the cheese, let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to melt completely and the flavors to meld together even more. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
I’ve even tested this with different cheeses. I tried pepper jack once, and it was a HUGE hit with my husband!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Cheesy Beef Goulash is great for meal prepping because it stores and reheats well.

To Store: Let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To Freeze: You can also freeze this goulash for longer storage. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To Reheat: You can reheat the goulash in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating in the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
I actually think the flavors meld together even more after it’s been in the fridge for a day or two!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can use any small pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or ditalini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I add vegetables to this goulash?

Yes, definitely! This goulash is very versatile, and you can easily add your favorite vegetables. Some good choices include bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots. Add the vegetables to the pot along with the onion and garlic.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic as directed in the recipe. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can! This goulash is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare it as directed in the recipe, then let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, this recipe is not naturally gluten-free because it contains elbow macaroni made from wheat. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available these days.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! My Cheesy Beef Goulash recipe. It’s a family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home too. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those pantry staples and customize it to your liking. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other comforting pasta dishes. And please, leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out! I love hearing from you and seeing your own variations. Happy cooking!

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