Inspired by the traditional American goulash recipe, this dish has roots tracing back to the iconic lunchroom fare served by cafeteria staff since the 1950s.
Versatile in nature, it can be enjoyed in various ways—folded into tortillas, topped with tots or fries, served over pasta, or even used as a hearty side dish alongside steak. It epitomizes wholesome comfort food, evoking nostalgia for all who indulge in its comforting flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cups pasta
– 1 small onion or 1/2 medium onion
– 15 ounces tomato sauce
– 14 1/2 ounces diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 2 teaspoons seasoning salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (convection) or 375 degrees Fahrenheit (conventional). While the oven is heating, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook 2 cups of pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef until fully cooked.
3. Add 1 small or 1/2 medium chopped onion to the ground beef when it’s almost done cooking, followed by 2 minced or smashed garlic cloves in the last few minutes of cooking. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.
4. Grease a 2 1/2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
5. In the prepared baking dish, combine 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce, 1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 2 teaspoons seasoning salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer the cooked ground beef and noodles to a large mixing bowl and stir to combine.
7. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!