Masters of kitchen
If there’s one dish that screams cozy, old-school comfort, it’s Cheesy American Goulash. This hearty one-pot wonder is a weeknight hero—rich, flavorful, and made with pantry staples you probably already have on hand.
It’s the kind of meal that takes you back. Maybe your grandma used to make it. Maybe it was your mom’s go-to after a busy day. Or maybe you’re just discovering the magic of ground beef, macaroni, tomato sauce, and melty cheese coming together in a single skillet. Either way, it’s love at first bite.
What makes this version extra special? Cheese. Lots of it. That gooey, savory twist transforms humble goulash into something truly irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just need something that feels like a hug in a bowl—this dish checks all the boxes.
What Is Cheesy American Goulash?
Let’s clear something up: American goulash isn’t the same as the Hungarian classic you might’ve heard about. While Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked beef stew with paprika and potatoes, Cheesy American Goulash is an all-American creation—quick, hearty, and pasta-based.
At its core, this dish is all about simplicity. Ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato sauce, and shredded cheese simmer together in one pan. Add a few aromatics, seasonings, and your favorite mix-ins, and you’ve got a full meal that’s equal parts delicious and comforting.
What’s really beautiful about it? One pot does it all. The pasta cooks right in the same sauce, absorbing all that flavor along the way. Then comes the cheese—stirred in at the end for a silky, creamy finish that clings to every bite.
Some folks call it “American chop suey,” others call it a skillet casserole. Whatever the name, it’s a down-home classic that delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Goulash Recipe
There’s a reason this dish has a cult following—it’s just plain good.
For one, it’s totally kid-approved. The familiar flavors, cheesy goodness, and soft pasta are comforting and easy to love, even for picky eaters. But grown-ups will appreciate the savory depth and customizable options too.
Budget-wise, it’s a rockstar. Ground beef and dry pasta go a long way, and you don’t need fancy ingredients to make it shine. It’s also a one-pan recipe, which means cleanup is a breeze—music to any home cook’s ears.
And let’s not forget its party trick: It makes a big batch. Perfect for feeding a crowd or storing leftovers for easy lunches later in the week. Just reheat, stir, and enjoy that cheesy comfort all over again.
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy American Goulash
Before you start tossing things into the pot, let’s break down what you’ll need—and how to make it even better.
Ground beef
Use 80/20 beef for rich flavor and juiciness. Want a leaner option? Try ground turkey or sausage. You’ll lose some richness but gain a lighter feel.
Pasta
Classic elbow macaroni is the traditional choice. Its shape holds onto sauce beautifully and cooks evenly in one pot. Short pasta like rotini or shells also work, but elbows = nostalgia.
Tomato sauce & diced tomatoes
Go for low-sugar or no-added-sugar brands if you’re watching your sweetness. Diced tomatoes add texture, while tomato sauce brings the base together.
Cheese
A sharp cheddar adds bite, but mozzarella creates a gooey, stretchy pull. Use one or mix both. For best results, shred your own cheese—pre-shredded types often include anti-caking agents that can mess with the melt.
Onion, garlic & seasonings
Sautéed onions and garlic create the flavor base. Don’t skip ‘em! Add Italian seasoning, a bay leaf, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes depending on your mood.
Optional Add-ins
Want to sneak in veggies? Try diced bell peppers, peas, corn, or even mushrooms. Craving heat? A splash of hot sauce or pinch of cayenne will do the trick.
Bold Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest melt—pre-shredded often has anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Essential Equipment You’ll Need
You won’t need much to make this magic happen:
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A large, deep skillet or Dutch oven
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A wooden spoon for stirring
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A cheese grater (trust us—freshly shredded cheese is worth it)
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Storage containers for all those delicious leftovers
Simple tools, big flavor.
Step-by-Step: How to Make One-Pot Cheesy American Goulash
Here’s how to bring this comfort classic to life:
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Brown the beef in your skillet until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
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Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
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Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
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Add the uncooked pasta right into the pot. Cover and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in your shredded cheese and let it melt into a creamy, cohesive sauce.
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Remove from heat and let rest a few minutes—this thickens the goulash and deepens the flavor.
That’s it! One pot. One spoon. One incredible dinner.
Tasty American Goulash Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, it’s easy—and fun—to change it up! Here are some delicious twists you can try:
Spicy Cheesy Goulash with Chili or Jalapeños
Turn up the heat by adding sliced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a generous dash of hot sauce. You can also swap in spicy sausage for some of the beef.
Veggie-Loaded American Chop Suey Style
Bulk it up with vegetables like baby spinach, sliced mushrooms, corn, or even zucchini. Stir them in just before the pasta finishes cooking so they stay tender but not mushy.
Tex-Mex Ground Beef and Macaroni Skillet Goulash
Add taco seasoning, a can of black beans, and swap the cheese for pepper jack or a Mexican blend. Top with crushed tortilla chips and a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling festive.
Cheesy Baked Goulash
Transfer the cooked goulash to a casserole dish, sprinkle with more shredded cheese and buttered breadcrumbs, and broil until golden and bubbly.
Slow Cooker Version
Brown the beef and sauté aromatics first, then toss everything—except the pasta and cheese—into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, stir in pasta 30 minutes before serving, and finish with cheese.
Gluten-Free Version
Simply swap out the macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to monitor the texture during simmering, as GF pasta can cook faster or break down more easily.
What to Serve With Cheesy American Goulash
This dish is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides makes it feel like a full, cozy dinner.
Breads
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Warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are the perfect mop-up tool for that cheesy tomato sauce.
Veggies
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A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
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Try roasted green beans, steamed broccoli, or even grilled zucchini for a colorful, healthy side.
Drinks
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Pair with a cold glass of lemonade or sweet iced tea for a nostalgic diner-style experience.
Tip: Leftovers? Serve the goulash over baked potatoes or in a wrap the next day!
How to Store & Reheat Old-Fashioned American Goulash
This dish stores like a dream, making it perfect for leftovers, lunchboxes, or freezer meals.
Storing in the Fridge
Let the goulash cool, then transfer it to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm larger batches on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
Freezing Instructions
Portion the cooled goulash into zip-top freezer bags or freezer-safe containers. Lay bags flat for space-saving storage. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Best Tip: If freezing, hold off on adding the cheese until reheating. It will melt better fresh and won’t turn grainy.
Reheating from Frozen
Let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce and refresh the texture.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Weeks
If you like prepping in advance, this dish was made for you.
You can brown the ground beef and sauté onions/garlic ahead of time—store them in the fridge for up to two days. Some folks also parboil the pasta, cool it, and then assemble everything quickly when ready to cook.
Another method: Make the entire dish, cool it down, and refrigerate in portions. It reheats beautifully for quick lunches or after-school dinners all week long.
Meal prep win? Absolutely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple comfort food has its pitfalls—here’s how to dodge them:
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Overcooking the pasta: Since it simmers in the sauce, check early and stir often to avoid mushy noodles.
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Going too lean: Using very lean beef (like 90/10) can result in dry, less flavorful goulash. Add extra seasoning or a splash of broth if needed.
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Adding cheese too early: Melt it in after the pasta is done. Heating it too long can make it clumpy or greasy instead of smooth and gooey.
Stick with these tips, and you’ll nail it every time.
FAQs
What makes American goulash different from Hungarian goulash?
Hungarian goulash is a slow-cooked beef stew made with chunks of meat, paprika, and vegetables. American goulash, on the other hand, is a quicker skillet meal made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and macaroni. It’s more like a pasta casserole than a stew.
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Yes, and it might taste even better the next day! Cook it fully, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.
Can I make it without cheese?
Absolutely. If you’re dairy-free or just not in the mood for cheese, skip it entirely. The tomato-based sauce still delivers rich, savory flavor on its own.
What’s the best pasta for goulash?
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice because it holds sauce beautifully. But you can also use small shells, rotini, or penne—just keep an eye on cooking times and texture.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
There’s a reason Cheesy American Goulash has stood the test of time—it’s humble, hearty, and always hits the spot. It brings people together around the dinner table with flavors that feel like home.
Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this dish delivers big comfort with minimal fuss.
So grab that skillet, shred some cheese, and get cooking. You’re just one pot away from a dinner that everyone will ask for again and again.
Cheesy American Goulash
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Airtight containers (for leftovers)
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 recommended
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 ½ cups beef broth or water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: ½ cup diced bell pepper ¼ tsp chili flakes, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
- Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant (about 2–3 minutes).
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken. Garnish with parsley if desired.
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