Description
Old-fashioned goulash is a comforting, family-favorite dish featuring tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce baked with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this hearty recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and kid-approved.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) petite diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ½ tablespoon black pepper
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Macaroni:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook macaroni 3 minutes less than package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Cook Beef and Onions:
- In a skillet, brown ground beef and onion for 6-7 minutes; drain excess fat.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
- Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce; mix well.
- Season Sauce:
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Combine and Bake:
- Stir macaroni into the beef mixture; fold in cheese.
- Transfer to an oven-safe skillet or greased casserole dish. Bake 20-25 minutes until bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
