Embracing the essence of hearty comfort food, Cheesy Baked Goulash stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, yet satisfying dishes. With its blend of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it has captured the hearts and appetites of many, including those who have made it a cherished weekly tradition. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe behind this beloved goulash, celebrating its rich flavors and inviting aromas that bring families together around the dinner table. Join us on a culinary journey that promises warmth, flavor, and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2/3 cup chopped onion
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 cup dry elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce (or 2 8-ounce cans)
- 1 jar homemade canned tomatoes diced, or 1 can low-sodium diced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a pot of water to boil for the pasta.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Season generously with ground black pepper. Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.
- While the beef is cooking, boil the macaroni pasta in the pot of water until it is just before al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. It will continue to cook in the oven.
- To the cooked beef and onions, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, and dried parsley. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni pasta until it is well coated with the cheesy beef sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a 2-quart casserole dish that has been lightly sprayed with oil. Top the goulash with shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Cheesy Baked Goulash in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the goulash to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with buttered bread and a refreshing salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion: Cheesy Baked Goulash epitomizes the essence of comfort food, offering a deliciously satisfying meal that nourishes both body and soul. Its simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a dish that is greater than the sum of its parts, delighting taste buds and warming hearts with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a weekly tradition or an occasional indulgence, this goulash has earned its place as a beloved favorite in countless households. As you savor each cheesy, savory mouthful, may it serve as a reminder of the joy found in sharing meals with loved ones and the gratitude for the culinary traditions that enrich our lives. Thank you for embracing this recipe, and may it continue to bring warmth and happiness to your table for many meals to come.