Queso Blanco Goulash Recipe: A Cheesy Twist on a Comfort Classic
What do you get when you cross a cheesy Tex-Mex favorite with a hearty bowl of goulash? This queso blanco goulash, of course! Sure, the name might sound like I made it up as I went along (because I did!), but trust me—this dish is the real deal. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with just the right amount of spice.
Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish combines taco-seasoned meat, queso blanco dip, elbow macaroni, and a little extra cheesy goodness for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to whip up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This queso blanco goulash is a crowd-pleaser with a Tex-Mex flair. It’s comfort food taken to the next level, combining the hearty goodness of pasta with the bold flavors of queso and picante sauce. Plus, it’s endlessly versatile—you can bake it, serve it straight from the stovetop, or even make it spicier if you like to turn up the heat.
Ingredients for Queso Blanco Goulash
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy, cheesy masterpiece:
- 1 lb ground turkey or hamburger
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 lb bag of elbow macaroni
- 1 (23 oz) jar Tostitos Queso Blanco Dip (medium heat)
- 1 cup Pace Picante Sauce (medium heat)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican four-cheese blend
How to Make Queso Blanco Goulash
1. Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, brown the ground turkey or hamburger over medium heat. Add the taco seasoning and cook according to the package directions.
2. Boil the Pasta
While the meat is cooking, boil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine the Meat and Pasta
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, stir it into the skillet with the taco-seasoned meat. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
4. Add the Cheese and Sauces
Pour in the queso blanco dip and picante sauce. Stir to combine, then add the shredded Mexican cheese blend. Mix everything together until the pasta is fully coated in cheesy, saucy goodness.
5. Heat and Serve
Cover the skillet and warm over medium heat until the cheese is fully melted and everything is heated through. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with more shredded cheese, and bake at 350°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for the Best Queso Blanco Goulash
- Choose Your Heat: Use mild or spicy queso and picante sauce to suit your family’s spice tolerance.
- Make It a Bake: If you love a golden cheese crust, bake the goulash with extra shredded cheese on top.
- Add a Tex-Mex Twist: Stir in diced jalapeños, black beans, or corn for even more flavor.
Why This Dish Is a Winner
This queso blanco goulash recipe is the ultimate comfort food mashup. It’s quick, easy, and packed with Tex-Mex flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. One bite, and you’ll be hooked on the creamy queso sauce, hearty taco-seasoned meat, and tender pasta.
So next time you’re craving something cheesy and satisfying, give this recipe a try. It might just become your new favorite “I just made this up as I went along” meal!
