Goulash Casserole

5 from 1 vote

This Goulash Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It features a rich mix of ground beef, tender vegetables, and elbow macaroni, all enveloped in a savory tomato-based sauce. The added spices like paprika and oregano bring a warm, homely flavor, while the cheddar cheese topping melts into a gooey, golden crust. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, baked to perfection.

Prep Time20

Cook Time40

Total Time1

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Calories: 358kcal

Author: Joanna Cismaru

Equipment

9x13-inch Casserole Dish

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 medium red bell pepper chopped
2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
14.5 ounces diced tomatoes 1 can
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup beef broth low sodium
1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
salt to taste
fresh parsley for garnish

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook until vegetables are tender. Stir in paprika, oregano, and black pepper.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly.
Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Video

Notes

Pasta Choice: While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other types of pasta like rotini or penne for a different twist.
Beef Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The flavor profile will slightly change, but it'll still be delicious!
Cheese Variations: Cheddar cheese gives a lovely, creamy texture, but you can mix it up with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and parmesan for a different flavor.
Spice Adjustment: If you're a fan of a little extra heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mix.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you're baking it straight from the fridge.

Nutrition