Cheesy Baked Goulash

If you’re looking for a hearty, budget-friendly, and family-approved dinner, this Cheesy Baked Goulash is the perfect recipe. Packed with savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, tender pasta, and a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, it’s a one-pot meal that will instantly become a weeknight favorite.

This American-style goulash is a classic comfort food that’s quick, affordable, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a large family or need a make-ahead dish for busy nights, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: A meal that kids and adults both love.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, and canned tomatoes.
• Easy to Make: One-pot cooking with simple ingredients and no complicated steps.
• Customizable: Easily adjusted with different meats, vegetables, or seasonings.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s why each ingredient matters in this cheesy baked goulash recipe:

• Ground Beef (2 lbs): Provides a rich and hearty base. For a lighter option, substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
• Garlic (3 tsp, minced): Enhances flavor with a savory, aromatic kick.
• Tomato Sauce (2 cans, 15 oz each): Gives the dish a smooth and tangy base.
• Diced Tomatoes (2 cans, 15 oz each): Adds texture and freshness to balance the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning (2 tbsp): Brings in classic herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Bay Leaves (3): Infuses deep, earthy flavor while simmering.
• Soy Sauce (3 tbsp): Adds umami depth and balances the tomato acidity.
• Seasoned Salt (1 tbsp): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• Water (3 cups): Necessary for cooking the pasta directly in the sauce.
• Elbow Macaroni (2 cups, uncooked): Classic choice for goulash; holds up well to the sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): The finishing touch that makes this dish creamy and indulgent.

Tips and Tricks

1. Brown Meat Properly: Make sure the beef is well browned before adding garlic for maximum flavor.
2. Cook Pasta in the Sauce: This allows the noodles to absorb flavor while cooking.
3. Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the pasta to avoid mushy texture.
4. Remove Bay Leaves: Always take them out before serving.
5. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
• Protein Swaps: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap in gluten-free pasta.

Pairing Suggestions

This Cheesy Baked Goulash is filling on its own, but you can serve it with:

• A fresh garden salad with Italian dressing.
• Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls.
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
• A glass of red wine for adults or iced tea for family dinners.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the goulash up to the point of adding cheese. Refrigerate overnight, then bake with cheese when ready to serve.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. Use a larger pot or Dutch oven, and simply double all ingredients.

Q: What’s the difference between American and Hungarian goulash?
Hungarian goulash is a stew made with paprika, potatoes, and beef chunks, while American goulash is a pasta-based casserole with ground beef and tomato sauce.