Southern Goulash Recipe

If you’ve been on the lookout for a comforting, hearty, and downright delicious meal that feels like a warm hug from the South, you’ve got to try this Southern Goulash Recipe. It’s a flavorful one-pot wonder that combines tender ground beef, a rich tomato base, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, all simmered together to create a dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for the family or entertaining friends, this recipe brings classic Southern charm and homestyle goodness to your table with every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Southern Goulash Recipe comes from using straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in the final flavor, texture, and color. From the savory ground beef to the fragrant herbs and rich tomato components, every element is essential for that perfect balance.

• 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings rich flavor and satisfying texture.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with garlic.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant kick that elevates the whole dish.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides bright, juicy chunks to balance the sauce.
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich base for simmering.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory moisture and depth to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and brings subtle tanginess.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances acidity from the tomatoes.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Introduces smoky warmth and color.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a herby, earthy note.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic layer.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers subtle heat and spice.
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: The perfect pasta shape that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): A melty topper that adds creamy richness when desired.

How to Make Southern Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. This step builds the savory foundation for your Southern goulash.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and releases a sweet aroma. This sautéing step deepens the flavor base, making every bite satisfying and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Tomato Ingredients and Broth

Now add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth right into the pot. These ingredients create that luscious, saucy heart of the Southern Goulash Recipe. Stir everything together so the tomato paste fully blends into the liquid for a smooth, rich texture.

Step 4: Season It Up

To punch up the flavor, stir in Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. These seasonings bring complexity and balance to the dish, with smoky, herbal, and just a hint of sweetness mingling together beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer to Develop Flavor

Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. This simmering step helps all the flavors meld, thickens the sauce slightly, and gives that comforting taste you crave from a true Southern classic.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it’s submerged in the flavorful liquid. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta absorbs so much flavor while cooking, making it tender and delicious without needing to boil separately.

Step 7: Add Cheese, If You Like

The finishing touch is sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving. Let it melt into the warm goulash for a creamy, gooey bonus that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Serve Southern Goulash Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish goes a long way with this dish. Fresh chopped parsley or green onions add a burst of color and freshness, cutting through the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of sour cream complements the tangy tomato base beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Southern Goulash Recipe with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies for a balanced meal. Cornbread or garlic bread is a classic Southern pairing—perfect for soaking up extra sauce and adding some crunch on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Southern goulash over mashed potatoes or even spoon it into halved bell peppers before baking for a colorful, inventive meal. It also makes a fantastic potluck centerpiece when kept warm in a slow cooker, inviting everyone to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Southern Goulash Recipe into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal to enjoy later without losing any flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! After cooling, place your Southern goulash in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and hearty meal anytime.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if it feels too thick. You can also microwave portions, just cover and heat in short bursts to keep the pasta tender without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. Just keep in mind their milder flavor means you might want to adjust the seasoning slightly to maintain that rich, savory profile classic to the Southern Goulash Recipe.

What type of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is traditional and ideal because it holds the sauce well, but you can also try small shells, rotini, or even ditalini. Just make sure it’s a shape that cooks fairly quickly and absorbs the sauce’s flavors.

Is this dish spicy?

This Southern Goulash Recipe has a mild warmth from the paprika and black pepper, but it’s not spicy-hot. If you love heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes when seasoning to make it your own.

Can I make it vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The tomato base and seasonings will still create a hearty, satisfying meal.

How can I make it creamier?

Stirring in a bit of sour cream, cream cheese, or even a splash of heavy cream right before serving adds extra creaminess that complements the robust tomato flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If there’s one recipe you keep coming back to for effortless comfort food with a Southern soul, the Southern Goulash Recipe will quickly become that treasured go-to. It’s simple yet packed with layers of flavor, perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and taste the love simmered into every bite!

Southern Goulash Recipe

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4.3 from 75 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Southern Goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring seasoned ground beef simmered with tomatoes, herbs, and tender elbow macaroni. This classic American casserole combines rich tomato flavors with savory spices, making it a perfect family dinner that’s easy to prepare in under an hour.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 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
• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, enhancing the base flavors.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth to create the rich tomato sauce foundation for the goulash.
4. Season the Mixture: Add Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the sauce.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
7. Add Cheese (Optional): Before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, letting it melt for a creamy, cheesy finish to the dish.

Notes

• For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey instead of beef.
• Ensure the macaroni is fully submerged in the liquid to cook evenly without sticking.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
• Use low-sodium beef broth to reduce the overall salt content if preferred.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American Southern