Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Goulash Delight
Looking for a quick and economical meal that satisfies the whole family? This creamy Macaroni and Cheese Goulash Delight combines the best flavors of a comforting goulash with the cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. It's a one-dish wonder that features lean ground beef, hearty pasta sauce, and tender macaroni, all mingled together and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses pantry staples and can be whipped up in about 30 minutes. Pair it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that will keep your family from reaching for takeout. This dish is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, making it a staple in our household on sports nights or after long workdays. Enjoy this deliciously easy meal and make mealtime a breeze, inspired from Pillsbury's Come & Eat magazine cookbook from Summer 2002. Bon appétit!
4
Servings
240
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1 lb
onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
pasta sauce
14 ounces (jar)
water
1 cup
macaroni & cheese dinner mix
7.25 ounces (package)
sliced mushrooms
4 ounces (jar, drained)
cheddar cheese
2 ounces (finely shredded)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat, stirring frequently until the beef is thoroughly cooked and browned. Drain any excess fat.
2
Pour in the pasta sauce and water into the skillet, mixing well. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
3
Stir in the macaroni from the macaroni and cheese dinner mix, then return the mixture to a boil.
4
Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5
Once the macaroni is cooked, carefully stir in the cheese powder packet from the macaroni and cheese dinner mix, making sure it's evenly distributed.
6
Fold in the drained sliced mushrooms to add an extra layer of flavor.
7
Sprinkle the finely shredded cheddar cheese on top, then cover the skillet and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted.
Nutrition Information
11g
Fat
20g
Carbs
14g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Goulash Delight?
It is a quick one-dish meal that combines goulash flavors with macaroni and cheese, featuring ground beef, pasta sauce, and cheddar cheese.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What is the total preparation and cook time?
The dish can be prepared and cooked in approximately 30 minutes.
What type of meat is used?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of lean ground beef.
Can I use a different protein?
While the recipe specifies lean ground beef, you could substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
What size macaroni and cheese mix is required?
You will need one 7.25-ounce package of macaroni and cheese dinner mix.
How should the onion be prepared?
The onion should be chopped to yield 1/2 cup.
Do I need to boil the macaroni separately?
No, the macaroni is cooked directly in the skillet with the pasta sauce and water.
What kind of pasta sauce is recommended?
The recipe suggests using a 14-ounce jar of your favorite pasta sauce.
How much water is added to the skillet?
One cup of water is added along with the pasta sauce.
When do I add the cheese powder from the mix?
Stir in the cheese powder packet after the macaroni is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Are the mushrooms fresh or canned?
The recipe uses a 4-ounce jar of sliced mushrooms, which should be drained.
Is it possible to omit the mushrooms?
Yes, you can leave out the mushrooms if they are not to your preference.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
The dish is topped with 2 ounces of finely shredded cheddar cheese.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 240 calories per serving.
Is this considered a one-pot meal?
Yes, it is a one-dish wonder prepared entirely in a large skillet.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 11g of fat.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 14g of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving has 20g of carbohydrates.
Where did this recipe originate?
This recipe was inspired by Pillsbury's Come & Eat magazine cookbook from Summer 2002.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is designed to be a family favorite that is especially popular with kids.
What side dishes pair well with this goulash?
It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
How do I prevent the macaroni from sticking to the skillet?
Be sure to stir the mixture occasionally while the macaroni is simmering.
Should I drain the ground beef after cooking?
Yes, you should drain any excess fat after browning the beef and onion.
How long should the macaroni simmer?
Simmer the macaroni for 6 to 8 minutes or until it is tender.
Should the skillet be covered while simmering?
Yes, cover the skillet to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
Is this an economical meal option?
Yes, it is described as an economical meal that utilizes pantry staples.
Can I use frozen chopped onions?
Yes, frozen chopped onions can be used as a convenient substitute.
How do I melt the cheddar cheese topping?
Sprinkle the cheese on top, cover the skillet, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until melted.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It offers a comforting blend of savory pasta sauce and creamy macaroni and cheese.