Easy Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Mac & Cheddar

If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting, and downright delicious dinner that comes together with ease, this Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender beef, a rich, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is a nostalgic crowd-pleaser that warms both the stomach and the soul. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight yet special enough to serve guests who crave that homemade, cozy flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Effortless: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings without compromising on flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything in a single pan or skillet.
• Comfort Food Classic: The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender beef hits all the right cozy notes on chilly nights.
• Kid-Friendly Appeal: Familiar ingredients like elbow macaroni and cheddar make this a guaranteed family favorite.
• Customizable and Flexible: Easy to tweak for different tastes or dietary needs without losing its core magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients combine to create this comforting meal. Each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and gorgeous color.

• Ground Beef: The hearty protein base that delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture.
• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds a tangy, cheesy kick that melts into luscious creaminess.
• Onion and Garlic: Provide aromatic depth and a mild sweetness as they sauté.
• Diced Tomatoes: Bring acidity and moisture to balance the richness.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and keeps the sauce saucy and smooth.
• Sour Cream or Heavy Cream: Creates that signature creamy texture everyone adores.
• Spices (Paprika, Salt, Pepper): Build warm, smoky undertones essential for authentic goulash taste.

Variations for Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe

This recipe is wonderfully forgiving and lends itself to countless delightful adjustments. Feel free to personalize it to match your pantry or dietary preferences with these ideas.

• Swap the Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner twist without losing comfort.
• Make it Vegetarian: Replace meat with hearty mushrooms or plant-based crumbles for a satisfying meat-free meal.
• Spice it Up: Add some cayenne or hot paprika for those who love a little kick.
• Cheese Variations: Try Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses to experiment with flavor profiles.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots to boost nutrition and texture.

How to Make Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the browned beef. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes, building a delicious flavor base.

Step 3: Combine Liquids and Spices

Pour in diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 4: Cook Elbow Macaroni

Add the dry elbow macaroni directly into the skillet, cover with a lid or foil, and simmer until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the savory flavors of the sauce.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and incorporate sour cream or heavy cream along with shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until creamy and smooth, creating that signature luscious sauce.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once everything is combined and bubbly, remove from heat. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly, then dish it up for a heartwarming meal.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe

• Use Sharp Cheddar: Mature cheddar adds more intense flavor and gives a better melting texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the macaroni before mixing to avoid mushiness when simmering further.
• Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low when adding cream and cheese to avoid curdling or a greasy texture.
• Season Gradually: Taste during cooking and adjust salt and spice levels toward the end for balanced flavor.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives just before serving for color and freshness.

How to Serve Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy dish. A dollop of sour cream on top also enhances richness and appearance.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty main with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to brighten the plate and balance the richness. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the goulash in individual bowls topped with extra shredded cheddar and crispy bacon bits for a gourmet touch. For kids, portion into muffin tins to create “goulash cups” that are fun and portable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate. This beef goulash stays flavorful and creamy for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—just allow it to cool completely before placing in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta variety, and ensure your broth and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Is it possible to use stew meat instead of ground beef?

Definitely. You will need to brown and simmer stew meat longer until tender, then proceed with the recipe, which will give a chunkier texture.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt to maintain creaminess.

Can I add vegetables directly into the goulash?

Absolutely. Adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach boosts nutrients and flavor—just sauté them with the onions.

What type of cheddar cheese is best?

A sharp or extra-sharp cheddar provides the best melt and robust flavor, enhancing the creaminess and zing of the final dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl and a guaranteed way to bring smiles around your dinner table. The balance of creamy sauce, tender beef, and cheesy pasta delivers a soul-satisfying meal everyone will love. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day!

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