If you’re craving a comforting, all-in-one dinner that smiles back at you with every bite, this Easy Cheesy Baked Beef Goulash Casserole Recipe is about to become your go-to. It combines tender ground beef simmered in a rich, tomatoey sauce with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all topped with a golden layer of melty sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This dish is pure warmth on a plate, effortlessly balancing hearty flavors and luscious cheesiness. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll be one of those recipes you keep coming back to, whether for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that build layers of flavor, texture, and color without fuss. Each component plays a crucial role in making this casserole irresistibly tasty and satisfying.
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85-90%): Provides a rich, meaty base with just enough fat to keep things moist and flavorful.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully and gives a perfect chew.
- 1 large can crushed tomatoes: Brings natural sweetness and a velvety texture to the sauce.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Adds bite-sized chunks that balance smooth crushed tomatoes for texture.
- 1 small can tomato paste: Deepens tomato flavor and thickens the sauce delectably.
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced: Adds a hint of sweetness and aromatic foundation.
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with a savory punch that brightens every bite.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth: Keeps everything moist and enriches the meaty flavor without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Gives a smoky undertone and beautiful color to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbal note that complements tomato and beef perfectly.
- 1 bay leaf: Imparts subtle depth and complexity to the simmered sauce.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors to perfection.
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Provides a gentle heat and aromatic warmth.
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick if you like some heat.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Offers a tangy sharpness and creamy melt.
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese: Adds mild creaminess that melts beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté beef and onions for flavor and texture balance.
How to Make Easy Cheesy Baked Beef Goulash Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your elbow macaroni until just al dente, giving a slight bite that will hold up perfectly when baked. Drain and set it aside—this pasta is the perfect canvas for soaking up all those rich, beefy flavors.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large, deep oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once nicely browned and caramelized, transfer the beef to a separate bowl but leave that flavorful fat right in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and toss in your diced onion. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until translucent and softened, bringing out its natural sweetness. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrant oils—it’s the little things that make this dish so unforgettable.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook it for about a minute to deepen the tomato flavor. Add the crushed and diced tomatoes along with beef broth. Season with paprika, oregano, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and the pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold. Let this simmer gently, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes so all those spices meld into a luscious sauce.
Step 5: Combine Beef, Pasta, and Cheese
Remove the bay leaf and fold your browned ground beef back into the sauce. Gently incorporate the cooked elbow macaroni, then stir in half of the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the mixture. This step ensures each bite is cheesy goodness inside and out.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
If you’re not using an oven-safe skillet, now is the time to transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so the cheese melts perfectly on top in the oven later.
Step 7: Add the Cheesy Topping
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese generously over the surface of your goulash. This layer bakes into a golden, bubbly crust—the hallmark of a great casserole that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling hot edges and cheese melted so beautifully that it turns slightly golden. The aroma will have you ready to dive in before it even cools.
Step 9: Rest and Garnish
Allow your casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This little wait helps it set for cleaner slices and maximizes flavor. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Easy Cheesy Baked Beef Goulash Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few torn fresh basil leaves add a lovely contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole. For the adventurous, a dollop of sour cream or a little hot sauce can bring extra creaminess or heat to the table.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to balance out the comfort food richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are perfect for mopping up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, cozy presentation that will wow family and guests. You can also layer some caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms inside before baking for a gourmet twist that boosts flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After the casserole cools completely, cover and refrigerate in an airtight container. It will stay good for up to 3 days, making it a perfect meal prep option to enjoy on busy days or as easy lunches.
Freezing
This Easy Cheesy Baked Beef Goulash Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil, or portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months to enjoy hearty comfort anytime you want without extra cooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or in the microwave for a quick fix. Adding a few drops of water before reheating helps keep the pasta moist and prevents the casserole from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small pasta shapes like penne, shells, or rotini would also work marvelously in this casserole, holding the sauce nicely.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth. The seasoning and cheese still make it wonderfully flavorful.
What’s the best cheese for melting?
Sharp cheddar offers great flavor, but Monterey Jack or Colby Jack provide creamy, meltable texture that rounds out the casserole perfectly. Mixing cheeses ensures the best taste and gooeyness.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it as directed—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How spicy is this casserole?
The recipe is mild by default. The pinch of red pepper flakes is optional and easy to adjust to your taste, so you can keep it family-friendly or add extra heat if that’s your style.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend this Easy Cheesy Baked Beef Goulash Casserole Recipe enough. It’s a wonderfully comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s simple to make and sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re feeding a family or need a satisfying meal to enjoy leftovers from, this casserole ticks all the boxes. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, cheesy hug from the oven tonight!
Print
Easy Cheesy Baked Beef Goulash Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cheesy Baked Beef Goulash Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal perfect for dinner. Featuring tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and a melty cheese topping, this casserole combines rich flavors with simple preparation. It’s ideal for a family-friendly meal, delivering deliciousness with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Meat and Proteins
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85-90%)
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Tomato Ingredients
- 1 large can crushed tomatoes (about 28 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (about 14 oz)
- 1 small can tomato paste (about 6 oz)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Broth
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large, deep oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the beef to a separate bowl, leaving excess fat in the skillet.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add finely diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with paprika, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Combine Beef, Macaroni, and Cheese: Remove the bay leaf. Return the browned ground beef to the sauce and stir to combine. Fold in the cooked elbow macaroni, then stir in half of the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
- Prepare for Baking: If your skillet is oven-safe, continue in it; if not, transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright finish.
Notes
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
- Ensure your skillet is oven-safe before baking; otherwise, transfer to a baking dish.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.
