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Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe

Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar Recipe
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This Creamy Beef Goulash with Elbow Macaroni and Cheddar is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal that combines tender ground beef, creamy cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying dinner ideal for busy weeknights but special enough to serve guests. With familiar ingredients and customizable options, it’s a nostalgic crowd-pleaser full of warm, rich flavors and a cozy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb ground beef

Pasta

  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni

Dairy

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Liquids & Broth

  • 2 cups beef broth

Spices

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  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.
  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.
  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.
  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.
  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.
  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.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for more intense flavor and better melting texture.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta; slightly undercook before simmering further to avoid mushiness.
  • Simmer gently after adding cream and cheese to prevent curdling or greasy texture.
  • Season gradually—taste and adjust salt and spices toward the end.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving for brightness and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef goulash, creamy beef pasta, elbow macaroni with beef, comfort food, cheddar beef goulash, one pot meal

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/creamy-beef-goulash-with-elbow-macaroni-and-cheddar-recipe/