Dive into the heartwarming and comforting realm of European cuisine with our cheesy goulash recipe. This robust, hearty stew is chock-full of savory meat, tender vegetables, a burst of spices, and topped off with a generous sprinkle of cheese. It's a versatile dish that's not only perfect for cold winter nights but also as a tasty centerpiece for your summer barbecues.
The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the depth of flavors it brings, makes it a cherished addition to your recipe collection. So, let's embark on this culinary journey and create a pot of cheesy goulash that everyone will love.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance between simplicity and depth of flavor. It uses readily available ingredients - meat, vegetables, spices, and cheese, which when combined in the slow-cooked method of a goulash, result in an explosion of taste that appeals to all palates. Plus, the goulash is a one-pot dish which significantly reduces clean-up time, a real blessing for those busy weekday dinners. But it's not only about ease; this meal is a nutritious powerhouse, packed with proteins, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Additionally, the cheesy goulash recipe's versatility is another factor that sets it apart. It can be served with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, pasta, or bread, making it a flexible option for different meals. The cheese in this goulash, not traditionally present in classic recipes, adds a creamy, savory touch, tying all the elements together. It's an excellent way to introduce a twist to an old classic, giving it a new dimension while retaining its comforting nature. This recipe is a testament that sometimes, the simplest ingredients, when treated with care, can create the most delightful dishes.
Ingredients
Ground Beef - This forms the hearty base of the goulash. For a leaner option, you could substitute it with ground turkey or chicken.
Elbow Macaroni - This classic pasta shape holds the sauce well. You can also use any pasta you have on hand, such as shells or rotini.
Canned Diced Tomatoes - These bring a rich, tangy flavor to the goulash. If you prefer, fresh tomatoes can be used instead.
Onion - Onion adds a depth of flavor. You could use red, yellow, or white onion based on what you have, or even shallots for a different flavor.
Cheese - A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella provides a creamy, cheesy texture. Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Tips
- Use a Large Pan: The pasta cooks in the same pan as the rest of the ingredients, so make sure it's big enough to accommodate everything.
- Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, drain any excess fat before adding other ingredients to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Undercook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until it's al dente, or even a little less. It will continue cooking in the sauce and become perfectly tender.
- Stir Frequently:Stir the goulash frequently while it simmers to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the goulash rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together and the cheese fully melt.
How to Serve
This cheesy goulash is a comforting, one-pot meal that is perfect for a hearty dinner. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a hit with both kids and adults.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the goulash.
- Alternatively, you can serve it with some crusty bread on the side, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
- For a complete meal, try serving the goulash with a side of steamed vegetables or a quick cucumber salad. The lightness of the veggies will complement the hearty goulash.
Similar Recipes
Cheesy Goulash
Ingredients
- 1 poundground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 14.5-ounce candiced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1½ cups cheese shredded
Instructions
- In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion to the pan and cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the elbow macaroni and enough water to just cover the pasta. Stir well.
- Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- Sprinkle the cheese over the top, then cover the pan again and cook for a few more minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use a Large Pan: The pasta cooks in the same pan as the rest of the ingredients, so make sure it's big enough to accommodate everything.
- Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, drain any excess fat before adding other ingredients to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Undercook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until it's al dente, or even a little less. It will continue cooking in the sauce and become perfectly tender.
- Stir Frequently:Stir the goulash frequently while it simmers to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the goulash rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together and the cheese fully melt.