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 28

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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

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

42 g

Sugar

65g

Fat

45g

Carbs

18g