If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that combines hearty ground beef with cheesy, tender pasta, then you are going to absolutely love this Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings together rich tomato flavors, perfectly seasoned beef, and gooey cheddar cheese in a way that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleasing meal to share, this dish delivers satisfying, homestyle comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential for creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors in your Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe. Each component plays a key role in making this dish hearty and delicious.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef for deep flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes the dish filling and savory.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Brings sweet, aromatic notes that brighten the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Provides a fragrant punch to enhance every bite.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the goulash an earthy, savory foundation.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates a rich, smooth base for the sauce.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Offers texture and a fresh tomato burst.
- 2 cups beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the meaty flavors.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked): The classic pasta shape that perfectly soaks up the sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy, cheesy goodness throughout the dish.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the beef and soften the aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Browning builds the foundation of flavor, so take your time here. When the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step adds wonderful aroma and sweetness, setting the stage for the delightful sauce to come.
Step 2: Season and build the sauce
Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. These spices are your flavor heroes, bringing warmth and a subtle smokiness. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth. Give it all a good stir to combine the ingredients fully. Then, bring the mixture to a boil – this wakes up all those flavors and prepares the pasta to cook in the sauce itself.
Step 3: Cook the pasta in the sauce
Once boiling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover your pot, and let it cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. During this time, the pasta will absorb the delicious tomato-y broth, becoming tender yet perfectly al dente, while the flavors meld beautifully. This kind of one-pot cooking saves time and dishwasher loads—always a win in my book!
Step 4: Melt in the cheese
After the pasta is tender and the sauce is thickened, remove the pot from heat. Immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the whole dish turns creamy and gooey. This step is the ultimate finishing touch, binding all the components together into a luscious, cheesy masterpiece that truly defines the Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe. If you love that ooey-gooey texture, this is the moment you’ll savor.
Step 5: Garnish and enjoy
For an optional fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving. It adds a lovely pop of color and subtle herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness just perfectly.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese can elevate your bowl of cheesy beef goulash, adding both visual appeal and an extra burst of flavor. For a bit more zing, a dollop of sour cream or sliced green onions also works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This hearty, cheesy dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or even some crusty bread to mop up all the delicious sauce. Light, fresh sides help balance the richness and keep your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the goulash in hollowed-out bell peppers or over a bed of sautéed greens for added texture and nutrition. You can also sprinkle spicy crushed red pepper flakes on top if you want to give the classic Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe a little kick of heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to reheat and enjoy the next day or even for a quick lunch option.
Freezing
This Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe freezes well if you want to meal prep in advance. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the goulash seems thick, stirring occasionally until warmed through and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used if you prefer a leaner option. The cooking steps remain the same, but you might want to add a bit more seasoning to boost the flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses elbow macaroni which contains gluten, but you can easily swap in gluten-free pasta to make this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is classic, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can bring a delicious twist to the flavor profile of your Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe.
What can I add to make it spicier?
Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper while seasoning to add a nice spicy kick that complements the rich cheese and beef perfectly.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The entire process takes about 35 minutes, including 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes to cook, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when time is tight.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation. It’s warming, filling, and ridiculously easy to throw together, bringing comfort food vibes with every mouthful. Give it a go and watch it turn into a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesy Beef Goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring browned ground beef simmered with tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, combined with tender elbow macaroni and melted cheddar cheese. This classic American dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner, offering a savory blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, and optional fresh parsley for brightness.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
Pasta and Cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika, ensuring the spices are well distributed throughout the beef mixture.
- Combine Liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Stir everything together thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook the Pasta: Once boiling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet or Dutch oven, and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking and cook until the macaroni is tender.
- Incorporate Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and cohesive.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if using, and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the seasoning step.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- This dish reheats well and is perfect for leftovers, making it great for meal prep.
