Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking, preventing uneven cooking.

Cook the Macaroni:

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
• Cook macaroni for 3 minutes less than the box directions, then drain. Al dente macaroni holds its shape and texture in the casserole, ensuring a consistent texture.

Brown the Ground Beef:

• Heat a large skillet over high heat.
• Add ground beef and onions to the pan.
• Break beef apart, cooking for 6-7 minutes until browned. Ensure the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, preventing undercooking and ensuring food safety.   
   
• Drain any fat. This prevents a greasy dish, ensuring a lighter and more palatable meal.

Add Garlic and Sauce:

• Mix in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
• Add in Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Mix until combined. This creates the flavorful base of the goulash.

Season the Sauce:

• Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Taste and adjust the seasonings. This ensures a flavorful sauce, catering to your personal preferences.

Combine Pasta and Cheese:

• Mix in cooked macaroni and cheddar cheese. This creates the cheesy and comforting component of the goulash.

Bake the Goulash:

• If your skillet is heat-safe, place in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the goulash is bubbly and the cheese is melted.
• If the skillet is not heat-safe, transfer the goulash to a casserole dish and bake. Ensure the goulash is heated through and the cheese is melted, preventing undercooking and ensuring a safe and enjoyable meal.