The Best Goulash
Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that combines rich flavours and simple ingredients into a perfect meal for any day of the week. This recipe takes a classic approach by incorporating both ground beef and a melange of cheeses, enveloped in a savoury tomato-based sauce with herbs that provide layers of flavour. It’s an easy-to-make, oven-baked delight that’s sure to become a family favourite.
This goulash recipe is not only filling but also packs a punch of flavors that meld together beautifully in the oven, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this beloved dish!
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2/3 cup chopped onion
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 cup dry elbow macaroni pasta
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce (or 2 8-ounce cans)
- 1 jar or can low-sodium diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Boil Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until just before al dente, as it will cook further in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Meat:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions, seasoning generously with ground black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Combine Ingredients:
- To the skillet with the beef, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, sugar, oregano, and basil. Stir well to combine. If you forgot the parsley earlier, add it now along with the cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is homogeneous.
- Assemble the Goulash:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix well. Pour the entire mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish that has been sprayed with cooking oil. Evenly spread the mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Serve:
- Let the goulash rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Serve warm with buttered bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.