A Weeknight Macaroni And Cheese Goulash Recipe

Craving a comforting, budget-friendly family meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? This Weeknight Macaroni and Cheese Goulash is your answer! A hearty blend of ground beef, pasta, and creamy cheese sauce, this recipe is a guaranteed kid-pleaser perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or when you need a quick alternative to takeout. Inspired by Pillsbury's Come & Eat magazine (Summer 2002), this updated recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Serve with a fresh salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 558 kcal
Protein 74g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
A Weeknight Macaroni And Cheese Goulash 54

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for A Weeknight Macaroni And Cheese Goulash

  • Lean Ground Beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 (24 ounce) jar pasta sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Macaroni & Cheese Dinner Mix
  • Sliced Mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make A Weeknight Macaroni And Cheese Goulash

  1. Brown 1 lb ground beef and 1 medium onion (chopped) in a large skillet over medium heat until beef is thoroughly cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Stir in 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce and 1/2 cup water.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Add 1 (7.25 ounce) box of macaroni and cheese dinner mix (uncooked macaroni only).
  6. Return to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low.
  7. Cover and simmer for 6-8 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
  8. Stir in the cheese powder packet from the macaroni and cheese dinner mix.
  9. Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms.
  10. Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  11. Cover and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

42 g

Sugar

65g

Fat

45g

Carbs

18g