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If you’ve ever wanted a cozy, comforting, and downright delicious meal that brings a little bit of Southern hospitality right to your table, then you are going to adore this Southern Goulash Recipe. This hearty one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef with a rich, savory tomato sauce and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, creating a dish that is as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a taste of classic comfort food, Southern Goulash is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style and always hits the spot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this Southern Goulash Recipe is a breeze because it relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of savory, tangy, and aromatic goodness that make this dish irresistible.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base full of flavor and protein.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that brightens the sauce.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings chunky bits of tomato and freshness.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Boosts the sauce’s thickness and intensity.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, tangy base for the dish.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the savory depth and keeps the macaroni cooking perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle tangy umami flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances acidity and rounds out the tomato flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Introduces a smoky warmth that’s classic in Southern cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers herby notes that lift the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Provides a sweet, aromatic earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spice and complexity.
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: The perfect pasta shape to soak up and lock in all that delicious sauce.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For a melty, cheesy finish that’s pure comfort food bliss.
How to Make Southern Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook it thoroughly while breaking it up with a spoon. This step is essential because browning unlocks deep flavors that give your Southern Goulash a savory foundation. Don’t forget to drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and both ingredients release their wonderful aromas. These aromatics are what layers flavor into the sauce, making it rich and inviting.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Now stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. This combination forms the luscious tomato base that makes Southern Goulash so hearty and comforting. The beef broth adds a lovely savory note that melds beautifully with the tomatoes.
Step 4: Season It Up
Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, sprinkle the sugar, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so these spices and seasonings evenly flavor the whole pot. This is where the dish takes on that signature Southern charm.
Step 5: Simmer to Develop Flavors
Bring the mixture up to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This simmering time helps all the flavors marry and deepen, creating a sauce that’s truly out of this world.
Step 6: Cook the Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and simmer for another 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will swell and absorb those savory tomato juices, becoming tender yet perfectly firm.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Serve
This step is totally optional but highly recommended: sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of your Southern Goulash right before serving and let it melt into a gooey, golden blanket of pure comfort.
How to Serve Southern Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Southern Goulash with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a few jalapeño slices can also add creaminess or a little electric kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a complete meal on its own, but you can round it out with some simple sides like a crisp green salad, buttery cornbread, or steamed green beans. These fresh or mildly flavored sides balance the rich, hearty goulash perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Southern Goulash in individual bowls topped with extra cheese and freshly ground black pepper. For a casual gathering, dish it up in bread bowls or pair it with a side of pickles to add that classic tangy contrast. It’s such a versatile crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Southern Goulash in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave some room for expansion so it doesn’t get messy in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving works too—just cover to retain moisture and stir occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in Southern Goulash Recipe. Just be mindful it may cook a little faster and can be less fatty, so you might want to add a touch of olive oil during cooking.
Do I have to add cheese?
Nope! The cheese is optional. While it adds a lovely melty richness, the goulash is delicious on its own with the hearty beef and tomato base.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with a gluten-free pasta variety. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to avoid overcooking.
Is Southern Goulash spicy?
Not traditionally. The paprika adds a mild warmth, but the dish is generally mild and comforting. You can always add hot sauce or cayenne if you like more heat.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Definitely! This Southern Goulash tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. You can prepare it entirely and just reheat when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Goulash Recipe is truly one of those heartwarming dishes that feels like a hug on a plate every time you dig in. It’s easy to make, wonderfully flavorful, and sure to become a go-to meal for your family and friends. So, don’t wait—grab those simple ingredients and start simmering up some Southern comfort today. You’re going to love it!
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Southern Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
Description
This Southern Goulash recipe is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef simmered with tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices, combined with tender elbow macaroni. It’s a classic American dish known for its rich flavors and easy preparation, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato and Broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant, enhancing the base flavor of the dish.
- Add Tomato Ingredients and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth thoroughly to combine all the tomato flavors and liquid.
- Season the Mixture: Add Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so that the herbs and spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook the Pasta In Sauce: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
- Add Cheese and Serve: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the goulash. Let it melt slightly before serving for a creamy finish.
Notes
- For a lower fat version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
- Stir occasionally when cooking pasta to prevent sticking to the pot.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes before adding the pasta.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
