Baked Cheese Goulash
A hearty baked cheese goulash combining savory hamburger, mushrooms, and spaghetti sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In one pan, cook hamburger and chopped onion until browned.
- In another pan, cook elbow macaroni until al dente.
- Mix cooked hamburger, onion, cooked macaroni, mushrooms, and spaghetti sauce in a large bowl.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Layer the mixture in a baking pan and cover generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the hamburger while cooking. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger and use reduced-fat mozzarella. You can also swap out elbow macaroni for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. To enhance the dish, try adding diced bell peppers or zucchini to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Cheese Goulash pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a healthier option. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving adds a nice touch. For more comforting dinner ideas, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and the cheese is melted.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cheese Goulash contains roughly 356 calories, with 23g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese in this goulash?
Absolutely! While mozzarella provides a great melt, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend for added flavor. Just keep in mind that some cheeses may alter the overall taste and texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the hamburger with plant-based ground meat or increase the amount of vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Use a vegetarian spaghetti sauce to ensure the dish remains meat-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the goulash mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).