Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Noodle Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef, or ground turkey; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes, do not drain; 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce; 1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional); 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning; 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups beef broth, or half water and half broth; 16 oz large elbow noodles (can use up to 24 oz pasta); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 34 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, you’ve got to try this Cheesy Ground Beef and Noodle Goulash Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tender elbow noodles soaking up a rich, savory tomato sauce loaded with seasoned ground beef, then finished with a generous blanket of gooey, melted cheddar cheese. This one-pot wonder delivers warm, satisfying flavors that feel like a big cozy hug on a chilly evening, and it’s so simple that you’ll want to make it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for cooking arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the center, there are two thick layers of raw red ground beef placed on white parchment paper inside a white bowl. Surrounding it, several small white bowls contain different items: one filled with yellow elbow macaroni, one with dark red kidney beans, one with chopped white onions, and another with red diced tomatoes. There is a clear glass containing bright red tomato sauce near the top. On the right side, a metal cheese grater holds shredded yellow cheese. At the bottom left, there is a bunch of fresh green parsley. Some small white bowls hold dry herbs and spices, along with small wooden spoons. A white cloth with blue stripes is placed on the lower right corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Everything you need for this dish is straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in layering flavor and texture. From the juicy ground beef to the aromatic onions and the cheddar cheese that brings it all together, each element transforms the dish into a comforting classic.

2 lbs ground beef: The hearty protein backbone packed with rich flavor and perfect for crumbling.
1 large yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it softens.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle punch of warm, savory aroma.
2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes, do not drain: Brings freshness and a vibrant tangy note with each bite.
2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich base to tie all the flavors together.
1 (15 oz) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional): Adds an extra layer of texture and protein.
1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that enhances the saucy goodness.
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the umami and adds a subtle tang.
1 teaspoon garlic salt: Boosts the garlic flavor while seasoning perfectly.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
4 cups beef broth (or half water and half broth): Keeps the noodles moist as they cook and enriches flavor.
16 oz large elbow noodles (up to 24 oz if preferred): Chewy and hearty pasta that soaks up sauce beautifully.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The creamy, melty crown that transforms this dish into comfort gold.
Fresh parsley (optional garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Noodle Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. As it sizzles, break it into small, even crumbles with a wooden spoon. Browning the beef thoroughly is crucial because it develops deep, savory flavors that form the foundation of your goulash. If the beef releases excess grease, draining some out now will keep your dish from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once your beef is nicely browned, toss in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Stir them around as they soften over about 5 minutes. This step builds a sweet and fragrant base that complements the richness of the meat and adds layers of aroma that will make your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Seasonings

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and red kidney beans if you’re using them. Then stir in the Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. These seasonings bring a beautiful balance of herbs, tang, and a touch of warmth that defines the unique character of this goulash.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Next, add the beef broth (or your combination of water and broth) and bring the whole thing to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 15 minutes while stirring occasionally to let all those flavors marry beautifully and the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

Add the elbow noodles to the bubbling sauce and simmer for an additional 8 to 10 minutes until the pasta is just al dente. Stir every so often to prevent sticking. Be careful not to overcook, as the noodles will continue to absorb sauce once off the heat, giving you that perfect chewy texture.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Watch as it melts into luscious pockets of creamy goodness, creating that irresistible cheesy finish that makes this dish so comforting and crave-worthy.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Noodle Goulash Recipe

A round white pot with two handles is shown from above, filled with a thick, dark red sauce that has small chunks of tomatoes and other ingredients, creating a textured surface. Toward the top left, there is a wooden board with a pile of shredded yellow cheese next to a silver grater. To the right of the pot, a white bowl holds uncooked macaroni pasta in a bright yellow color. A wooden spoon with some sauce residue rests near the bottom left of the pot, while fresh green parsley sprigs are partially visible on the left side of the scene. A blue and white striped cloth is casually placed at the bottom right corner, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a burst of color but also brightens every bite with just a touch of herbal freshness. If you want to get fancy, a handful of extra shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream can add an indulgent flair.

Side Dishes

While this goulash is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crunchy garlic bread takes the experience to the next level. The salad cuts through the richness, and the garlic bread doubles down on the savory, cheesy vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the goulash in individual bread bowls to soak up every last bit of that rich sauce. You can also layer it in a casserole dish, top it with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake it briefly for a bubbly, golden crust that will wow any crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this goulash will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick reheats on busy nights.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for even longer, freezing is a great option. Place cooled goulash in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a comforting meal later, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm your goulash on the stovetop over medium heat or zap it in the microwave in 30-second bursts. Add a splash of water or broth as needed to loosen the sauce, ensuring it stays saucy and delicious instead of drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and will give it a slightly lighter flavor while still soaking up all the delicious seasonings.

Can I skip the beans or substitute them?

Yes, the kidney beans are optional and can be left out entirely or replaced with other beans like black beans or pinto beans if you prefer, though it will slightly change the texture.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is classic and melts beautifully, but feel free to experiment with Colby, Monterey Jack, or even a blend to tailor the cheesy goodness to your liking.

Is it okay to use different pasta shapes?

Definitely! While large elbow noodles are traditional here, small shells, rotini, or penne all work well to catch the sauce and provide satisfying chew.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You sure can! It actually tastes great reheated, so making it a day ahead gives the flavors even more time to meld — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Noodle Goulash Recipe has a special place in my heart for good reason. It’s effortless, packed with flavor, and just downright comforting in every forkful. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just need a meal that feels like a warm embrace, this recipe checks all the boxes and then some. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your list of favorite go-to dinners!