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Cheesy Baked Goulash

Cheesy Baked Goulash
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Cheesy Baked Goulash is a rich, hearty casserole combining tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a luscious melted cheddar cheese topping. This comforting dish is easy to prepare, perfect for family meals or gatherings, and customizable to suit various dietary needs. With simple pantry staples and straightforward steps, it delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Dairy

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (preferably freshly shredded)
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

Pasta and Sauce

  • 3 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks until browned and no longer pink.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to meld and to prevent sticking.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water if you wish to loosen the sauce later.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the beef and tomato sauce mixture, ensuring all pasta is well coated. Stir in milk or cream to enhance the creaminess and blend everything evenly.
  5. Add Cheese and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and let the goulash rest for a few minutes to set. This makes it easier to serve and allows flavors to develop fully.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier, better melt compared to pre-shredded varieties containing additives.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercooked macaroni will maintain a firm texture after baking.
  • Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • For extra cheesiness, mix some shredded cheese into the casserole before topping with more cheese.
  • Allow the baked goulash to rest before serving to prevent it from falling apart and to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy Baked Goulash, comfort food, casserole, ground beef, macaroni, cheddar cheese, easy dinner, family recipe, baked pasta

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/cheesy-baked-goulash/