Description
“Enjoy this Easy Goulash Casserole – a comforting, cheesy pasta bake with ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep!”
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened.
- Add seasonings & sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine with pasta: Stir the cooked macaroni into the skillet, coating everything in the sauce.
- Transfer to baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the casserole.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley (if using), and enjoy!
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Cheese Options: Try cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: casserole, comfort food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
Keywords: goulash casserole, baked goulash, easy comfort food, family dinner recipe, cheesy pasta bake