GOULASH de Chile Verde con Queso

This Green Chile Cheese Goulash is a comforting Southwestern-style pasta dish loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, green chiles, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s an easy family dinner that’s hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add the Pasta and Liquids

1. Stir in the uncooked macaroni.
2. Add the diced tomatoes with green chiles, green chiles, beef broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer

1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Remove from heat.
2. Stir in 1½ cups cheddar cheese and ½ cup Monterey Jack until melted.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
4. Cover for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
2. Serve hot with warm tortillas, cornbread, or a simple green salad.

Tips

• Use hot green chiles if you enjoy extra spice.
• Add black beans or corn for more texture and flavor.
• Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Top with sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or diced avocado before serving.

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6