Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar – Comfort in a Bowl

If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug on a chaotic weekday night, it’s Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar. Picture this: tender elbow macaroni soaking up a rich tomato sauce, ground beef browned to perfection, and a blanket of melty cheddar cheese pulling it all together. It’s hearty, comforting, and—best of all—on the table in under an hour. Whether you’re juggling kids’ schedules or just craving something cozy, this recipe is your one-pot lifesaver. Bonus? Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a true weeknight hero.

Table of Contents

What is Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar?

At its core, Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar is a one-pot American twist on Hungarian goulash. Instead of stewing for hours, this version uses ground beef, pasta, and a tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and paprika. The magic comes in at the end—shredded cheddar cheese stirred in to create that creamy, slightly tangy richness that clings to every bite. Think of it as the love child of mac and cheese and spaghetti night, delivering comfort without fuss. It’s straightforward, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a hungry crew.

Reasons to Try Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar

Why should this recipe make its way into your dinner rotation? For starters, it’s family-approved. Even picky eaters usually can’t resist cheesy pasta. Secondly, it’s a true time-saver, cooking up in less than 45 minutes. No complicated steps, no sink full of dirty dishes—just one skillet. Third, it’s versatile: you can swap in ground turkey, add veggies, or spice it up with a little cayenne. Finally, it’s reheatable and freezer-friendly, so future-you will thank present-you for thinking ahead. In short: quick, comforting, and customizable. What’s not to love?

Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar

When it comes to building the perfect Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar, every ingredient pulls its weight. This is comfort food at its finest, so let’s walk through not just what you’ll need, but why each part matters for flavor and texture.

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 Tbsp.) – Adds richness and helps the onions and garlic caramelize instead of sticking. Don’t swap this with butter if you’re looking for a slightly lighter base.
• Medium Yellow Onion (1, chopped) – Brings natural sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. The finer you chop, the smoother the sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped) – Just two cloves bring bold, savory depth. If your family loves garlic, go ahead and toss in an extra.
• Ground Beef (1 lb.) – The star of the show. Use 80/20 for juicy flavor, but if you’re after a leaner dinner, swap in ground turkey like in this ground turkey and peppers stir fry recipe.
• Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning each layer as you go.
• Tomato Paste (1 Tbsp.) – Creates a deeper, more concentrated tomato base that clings beautifully to pasta.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz.) – These add texture, little bites of tomato that make the sauce feel rustic and homemade.
• Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz.) – Smooths everything out, giving you that luscious consistency.
• Low-Sodium Beef Broth (1 ¼ cups) – Builds body in the sauce while keeping sodium in check. If you only have regular broth, reduce added salt.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp.) – A mix of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary—this seasoning ties the dish together with familiar comfort flavors.
• Paprika (1 tsp.) – A nod to traditional goulash, paprika adds a smoky warmth that makes the sauce pop.
• Elbow Macaroni (1 ½ cups) – Classic, bite-sized pasta that soaks up every drop of sauce. Don’t substitute with larger pasta shapes if you want that cozy “American goulash” texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Melts into the sauce for that signature creamy finish. Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor or mild for a kid-friendly version.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – A sprinkle of green brightens the rich red sauce, making your dish look as good as it tastes.

Together, these ingredients create a Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar that’s hearty, flavorful, and destined to become a weeknight favorite.

Instructions to Make Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar

One of the best parts about making Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar is how simple it is—even if you’re not a confident cook, this dish is nearly foolproof. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown so you’ll end up with a skillet full of rich, cheesy goodness every time.

Step 1: Cook the Aromatics

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the chopped yellow onion. Cook for about 7 minutes until the onion softens and turns golden, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick. Then, toss in the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another minute. This step builds the flavor foundation of your goulash, so take your time here.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add your ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks so you get small, even crumbles. Season with a good pinch of kosher salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook until the beef loses its pink color, about 6–7 minutes. If you see extra fat pooling in the skillet, go ahead and drain it—this keeps your Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar from feeling greasy.

Pro tip: If you’d like a lighter spin, you can swap beef for turkey or chicken, much like the protein swap in this Mediterranean chicken zucchini bake.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Sauce

Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and let it coat the beef for about a minute. This quick step caramelizes the paste and deepens the flavor. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning and paprika for that signature goulash kick. Stir everything together, and you’ll already notice the aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta in the Sauce

Add the elbow macaroni directly into the skillet. This is where the magic happens—the pasta cooks in the sauce, soaking up all that tomato-beef flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away, uncovered, for about 10–15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom. By the end, your macaroni should be tender, and the sauce should have thickened beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Watch as it melts into the sauce, transforming everything into the creamy, luscious goulash you’ve been craving. Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Scoop your Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

This recipe comes together in under 45 minutes and rewards you with a cozy dinner that feels like it’s been simmering all day. It’s a true one-pot wonder—easy cleanup, maximum flavor.

What to Serve with Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar

This goulash already holds its own, but a side dish can take it from “yum” to “wow.” Pair it with a crisp green salad for balance or some buttery garlic bread for the carb-lovers in the house. A side of roasted vegetables—like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli—adds nutrition and color to your plate. And if you want to double down on comfort, serve it with a cozy bowl of homemade chicken pot pie casserole. Trust me, you’ll be in comfort food heaven.

Key Tips for Making Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar

Want that perfect balance of creamy, saucy, and cheesy? First, don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue soaking up liquid as it sits. Second, always drain the beef to keep the dish from feeling heavy. Third, use freshly shredded cheddar instead of pre-packaged for the best melt. If you like a creamier texture, stir in a splash of milk before adding cheese. And lastly, taste before serving—sometimes just a pinch more salt or paprika can make the flavors pop.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store cooled goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to bring the sauce back to life (since pasta tends to soak it up). Microwave in short bursts or warm gently on the stove, stirring often. If you’re feeling indulgent, toss in a little extra cheddar while reheating—it’s basically a “second cheese blessing.”

FAQs

Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Just swap in your protein of choice for a lighter version.

What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even Pepper Jack can step in.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook it up, refrigerate, then reheat with a splash of broth.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.

Can I sneak in veggies for the kids?
Definitely. Shredded zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers blend right in.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar is everything a busy cook dreams of: easy, budget-friendly, and crowd-pleasing. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like you worked harder than you did (a small win worth savoring). Serve it on a chilly night, pack it for next day’s lunch, or freeze it for emergencies—you can’t go wrong. If comfort food had a crown, this goulash would wear it proudly.

Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.

Print