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Cheesy Baked Goulash
Caroline

Cheesy Baked Goulash

This cheesy baked goulash is a hearty and comforting family dinner made with ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 3 tsp minced garlic
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce
  • 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp seasoned salt
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Equipment

  • large skillet or Dutch oven
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • baking dish (if finishing in the oven)

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 5 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in water, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, soy sauce, and seasoned salt. Mix well.
  4. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
  5. Add uncooked elbow macaroni, stir, cover, and cook for another 30 minutes until pasta is tender.
  6. Remove from heat, discard bay leaves, and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  7. Cover and let the cheese melt before serving warm.

Notes

  • This dish is even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste by adding black pepper, paprika, or extra herbs.
  • For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake uncovered at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly.