If you're craving a hearty, comforting, and cheesy pasta dish, look no further than this Cheesy Baked Goulash. This recipe takes the traditional American goulash—ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce—and elevates it with a golden, bubbly layer of melted cheddar cheese. The result? A savory, filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a nostalgic comfort food fix.
With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this baked goulash is a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste by adding extra vegetables, using different cheeses, or even swapping out the protein. Let's dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Goulash:
- 1 pound ground beef – Provides the dish with a rich, savory base. You can also use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped – Adds depth and a slight sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Gives the goulash texture and a fresh tomato flavor.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce – Provides a smooth, rich tomato base.
- 1 (10.75-ounce) can tomato soup – Enhances the sauce with a hint of sweetness and creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a subtle umami flavor, deepening the dish’s richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Brings out all the flavors. Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick and enhances overall seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Infuses the dish with a warm, herby aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Complements the oregano with a slightly sweet, peppery note.
For Thickening & Pasta:
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce, making it cling to the pasta.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni – The classic pasta choice, known for soaking up all the rich flavors.
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into a bubbly, gooey layer that makes this dish irresistible.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Brown the Beef and Onion
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion turns soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
2. Build the Rich Tomato Sauce
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato soup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Thicken the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup flour and 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
4. Add the Pasta
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and bring the mixture to a light boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
5. Transfer to a Baking Dish & Add Cheese
- Pour the goulash into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Rest & Serve
- Let the baked goulash rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Why This Recipe is Loved
✔ Simple Ingredients – Everything in this recipe is pantry-friendly and easy to find.
✔ One-Pot & Minimal Cleanup – The stovetop portion keeps dishes to a minimum before baking.
✔ Rich & Comforting – The thick, cheesy tomato sauce is pure comfort food.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – You can modify the recipe with extra veggies, different meats, or even a spicier twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Baked Goulash
- For an extra cheesy top, add a mix of cheeses. Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for depth.
- Want a thicker sauce? Replace flour with 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water for a smoother consistency.
- Add extra veggies. Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms make a great addition.
- For a smoky kick, stir in 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Double the recipe for meal prep. This goulash reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers.
What to Serve with Cheesy Baked Goulash
This dish is a meal in itself, but you can complete it with:
- A side salad – A crisp green salad with Italian or ranch dressing balances the richness.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.
- Steamed vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or roasted zucchini add a nutritious side.
Final Thoughts: Comfort Food at Its Best
This Cheesy Baked Goulash is the ultimate warm, hearty, and satisfying meal. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it's a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or bringing to a potluck.
Give this recipe a try tonight—you won’t regret it! And if you love it as much as we do, don’t forget to share your experience and variations. Happy cooking!