Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash

Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash: A Comfort Food Classic

Are you ready to embrace a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash is the dish that combines gooey cheese, hearty meat, and scrumptious pasta all in one pot! It’s like a hug in a bowl that takes you back to those cozy family dinners where everyone leaves with a filled belly and a happy heart. Did you know that goulash has roots in Hungary? However, this American version has made its way into homes across the nation, becoming a beloved family favorite! Laced with cheesy goodness and protein-packed ingredients, this dish is quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want nothing more than a delightful meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen all evening.

If you’re a fan of another popular recipe on our blog, such as creamy mac and cheese, you’ll love this goulash—it combines similar comforting elements but adds the richness of seasoned meat and robust flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or just a cozy dinner for two, this goulash recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy your cravings. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this cheesy delight!

What is Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash?

So, what exactly is Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash? Great question! This dish combines ground beef or turkey with elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and seasoned spices, all topped with melty cheese. Isn’t it funny how this hearty concoction is often associated with childhood memories of home-cooked meals? You may be wondering why they didn’t just call it “meat and noodles,” right? It’s because goulash isn’t just any dish; it’s a full-on flavor experience! As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this goulash is sure to win over hearts at the dinner table! So why not whip up a batch? Your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash:

1. Hearty and Filling: This goulash is a complete meal in one bowl, with protein, carbs, and oodles of cheese, making it an excellent choice for feeding hungry mouths!
2. Cost-Effective: Preparing this dish at home can save you a lot compared to dining out. Plus, you control the ingredients, making it healthier and more customized to your family’s tastes.
3. Tasty Finishing Touches: With a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, garlic, and generous layers of cheese, each spoonful bursts with flavors that kids and adults alike will love! Compared to a simple pasta dish, this goulash offers so much more richness and satisfaction.

Make it tonight, and you’ll have a new favorite in your recipe collection that’s bound to become a staple!

How to Make Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash:

Quick Overview

Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat! Packed with well-seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and plenty of gooey cheese, this dish can be prepped and cooked in about 30 minutes. It’s a go-to weeknight recipe that’s simple, filling, and utterly delicious!

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash:

• 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp Adobo seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp seasoned salt
• 1/2 tbsp black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the meat: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Mix in the liquids: Stir in the water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
4. Season it up: Add the Italian seasoning, Adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir until blended.
5. Time for the pasta: Add in the uncooked elbow macaroni, stirring well to combine. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked through.
6. Add the cheese: Remove the bay leaves and stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
7. Serve it up: Dish out the goulash into bowls and enjoy while it’s warm!

What to Serve Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash With:

This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. For a more indulgent experience, you might love serving it with a glass of red wine or a classic soda. And if you’re looking to mix it up, consider adding some freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an extra flavor kick!

Top Tips for Perfecting Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash:

• Ingredient swapping: If you’re looking for ways to make this dish even healthier, you can substitute lean ground turkey for ground beef or use whole wheat pasta instead of regular elbow macaroni.
• Timing adjustments: Cook the macaroni separately to maintain its texture, especially if you plan to store leftovers.
• Avoid common mistakes: Don’t forget to drain excess fat from the meat; otherwise, your goulash may end up too greasy!

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply thaw and warm it in a pot on the stove or the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. This way, you can enjoy your delicious goulash even on the busiest days!

Now that you’ve got the scoop on how to make Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash, it’s time to don that apron and create this comfort food classic for yourself and your loved ones! Happy cooking!

Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash: A Comfort Food Classic

Are you ready to embrace a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Cheesy Old Fashioned Goulash is the dish that combines gooey cheese, hearty meat, and scrumptious pasta all in one pot! It's like a hug in a bowl that takes you back to those cozy family dinners where everyone leaves with a filled belly and a happy heart. Did you know that goulash has roots in Hungary? However, this American version has made its way into homes across the nation, becoming a beloved family favorite! Laced with cheesy goodness and protein-packed ingredients, this dish is quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want nothing more than a delightful meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all evening.

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Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs ground beef or turkey
• 3 tsp minced garlic
• 1 large yellow onion diced
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 15-ounce cans tomato sauce
• 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp Adobo seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp seasoned salt
• 1/2 tbsp black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

 

• Brown the meat: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
• Sauté the aromatics: Add minced garlic and diced onion to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
• Mix in the liquids: Stir in the water, beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
• Season it up: Add the Italian seasoning, Adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir until blended.
• Time for the pasta: Add in the uncooked elbow macaroni, stirring well to combine. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked through.
• Add the cheese: Remove the bay leaves and stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.
• Serve it up: Dish out the goulash into bowls and enjoy while it’s warm!