Embark on a flavor-packed journey with Cheesy Baked Goulash—a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of a classic goulash with the indulgence of melted cheese. This oven-baked rendition takes the beloved goulash to new heights, offering a satisfying symphony of textures and tastes.

Imagine tender chunks of beef or pork, simmered to perfection in a savory blend of tomatoes, onions, and an array of spices, creating a robust and flavorful goulash base. What sets Cheesy Baked Goulash apart is the addition of a generous layer of gooey melted cheese that blankets the top, adding a decadent touch to this already comforting dish.

As the Cheesy Baked Goulash emerges from the oven, the golden crust of melted cheese beckons, giving way to a savory and bubbling masterpiece beneath. The combination of the slow-cooked meat and aromatic spices, paired with the creamy richness of melted cheese, creates a symphony of flavors that is both nostalgic and indulgent.

This dish is not just a delightful family favorite; it’s a celebration of the heartiness and soul-warming qualities of goulash. Whether served over a bed of pasta, rice, or enjoyed on its own, Cheesy Baked Goulash invites you to experience the joy of a comforting, oven-baked classic. It’s a culinary journey that transforms a humble goulash into a cheesy, flavorful delight, promising to satisfy both the craving for comfort food and the love of melted cheese.

Cheesy Baked Goulash

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni or any low-carb pasta substitute
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the meat and tomato mixture.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: 400-450 kcal
  • Protein: 20-25g
  • Carbohydrates: 25-30g
    • Dietary Fiber: 4-6g
    • Sugars: 6-8g
  • Fat: 25-30g
    • Saturated Fat: 12-15g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 8-10g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2-3g
  • Cholesterol: 70-90mg
  • Sodium: 600-700mg
  • Potassium: 500-600mg