Cheesy Baked Goulash
Hearty, cheesy, and oven-baked to perfection! 
When you need a warm, comforting dinner that feeds a crowd and brings everyone to the table with a smile, Cheesy Baked Goulash is your answer! This nostalgic casserole-style dish combines tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and loads of melted cheese—all baked into one irresistible dish.
It’s like a big hug in casserole form!
Why You’ll Love This Goulash
- One-pan classic – less mess and easy prep
- Family-friendly – picky eaters love it!
- Melty cheese magic – cheddar + mozzarella = gooey perfection
- Meal prep-friendly – reheats beautifully
Ingredients 
Serves 6–8
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Cheesy Baked Goulash 
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
Drain any excess fat.
Simmer the Sauce
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Cook the Pasta
Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Assemble the Goulash
Transfer the pasta and meat mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cool & Serve
Let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve as-is or pair with a crisp side salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread for a full-on comfort meal.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms while cooking the beef.
- Swap the pasta: Penne, rotini, or shells also work well.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Ground turkey or sausage? Totally fair game!
Storage & Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- This dish also freezes well—perfect for make-ahead meals!
Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
This Cheesy Baked Goulash is the kind of dinner that hits the spot every time—simple, satisfying, and full of love.
Give it a try, and let me know if it becomes a regular on your dinner table too!
Ingredients For the Steak: 
4 steak medallions (filet mignon or sirloin)
Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins | 
Servings: 6-8 
Ingredients: 
4 large russet potatoes, peeled & sliced thin (1/8 inch thick)