Creamy and Cheesy Beef Goulash Recipe – Easy Comfort Food

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s both creamy and cheesy, this creamy and cheesy beef goulash recipe is the perfect solution. With rich flavors from seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a melt-in-your-mouth cheesy topping, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal prepping for the week, it checks all the boxes—easy to make, deliciously creamy, and wonderfully cheesy.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy and Cheesy Beef Goulash

This creamy and cheesy beef goulash recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, the combination of ground beef (or turkey), tender pasta, and melted cheese offers a satisfying, creamy texture that’s sure to fill you up. Plus, with the addition of savory seasonings like Italian seasoning and Adobo, this goulash delivers a flavor-packed punch.

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that delivers both flavor and convenience, this dish is an absolute must-try.

Ingredients

To create the perfect creamy and cheesy beef goulash, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Ground Beef or Turkey: A hearty base that provides protein and a rich flavor.
• Minced Garlic: Adds an aromatic, savory taste to the dish.
• Yellow Onion: Provides a mild sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, adds a subtle fruity taste.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the flavor and creates a rich base for the goulash.
• Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: Brings tangy acidity and a delicious tomato base to the dish.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a fresh, aromatic flavor.
• Adobo Seasoning: A versatile spice mix that infuses the dish with a savory, well-rounded taste.
• Bay Leaves: Adds an earthy flavor that enhances the overall depth of the dish.
• Seasoned Salt & Black Pepper: Adds seasoning and enhances all the flavors.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta choice that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Adds a creamy, stretchy texture and mild flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Offers a sharp, tangy contrast to the mozzarella and adds to the creamy texture.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for ways to adjust the recipe to your taste preferences or dietary needs, here are some alternatives you can try:

• Ground Turkey: A leaner alternative to ground beef, perfect for a lighter version of this goulash.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Cheese: Use plant-based mozzarella and cheddar if you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free.
• Chicken Broth: Swap beef broth for chicken broth to give the dish a slightly lighter flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating your creamy and cheesy beef goulash is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until it’s halfway browned.
2. Add the minced garlic and diced onions to the skillet, continuing to cook until the meat is fully browned and the onions have softened.
3. Pour in the water, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and stir in the Italian seasoning, Adobo seasoning, bay leaves, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the flavors are well combined.
5. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce until everything is evenly mixed. Cover the skillet again and simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and fully cooked.
6. Once the macaroni is cooked, remove the bay leaves. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
7. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top right before serving. The mozzarella will melt into the dish, adding a creamy finish.

Tips & Tricks

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your creamy and cheesy beef goulash turns out perfectly every time:

• Avoid overcooking the elbow macaroni. It should be tender but not mushy. If needed, check the doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
• Stir the goulash occasionally while it’s simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
• For a richer flavor, let the goulash sit for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This creamy and cheesy beef goulash is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a few side dishes or modify the recipe for extra variety:

• Side Dishes: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the goulash.
• Variations: For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced bell peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
• Make-Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and heat on the stove, adding a little extra broth to keep it creamy.

Conclusion

This creamy and cheesy beef goulash recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors, hearty textures, and a satisfying cheesy finish. It’s easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal every time. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, this dish is ideal for anyone craving something filling and full of flavor. Whether you stick to the original recipe or customize it to fit your preferences, you’re in for a delicious experience. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to become a family favorite!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Cheesy Ground Beef and Potatoes: This savory recipe brings together tender ground beef and cheesy potatoes, offering a similar comforting, cheesy texture to the creamy beef goulash. It’s perfect for those who love a cheesy, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
• Good Old Fashion Mac and Cheese: A classic comfort food, this mac and cheese recipe features creamy cheese and pasta, much like the beef goulash but without the meat. It’s a great vegetarian alternative that delivers that rich, cheesy satisfaction.
• Snow Day Soup: Creamy Chicken: If you love creamy, comforting dishes, this chicken soup is a perfect option. It’s full of creamy texture and savory flavors, making it a delicious, heartwarming dish that pairs well with the creamy, cheesy vibe of the beef goulash.

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