Southern Style Goulash

Southern Style Goulash is a warm and hearty dish that brings together tender ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni in a savory, flavor-packed sauce. This easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a nostalgic taste of classic comfort food. It’s rich, filling, and made with simple pantry staples, making it a budget-friendly option that the whole family will love.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Southern Style Goulash

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Macaroni

1. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once the macaroni is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the goulash hot, garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adjust the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavor.
• Bell Pepper: The bell pepper is optional but adds a nice sweetness and extra flavor to the dish.
• Pasta: Be sure to stir the goulash occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Variations

• Cheesy Goulash: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a cheesy twist.
• Vegetable Goulash: Add additional vegetables like corn, diced zucchini, or carrots for added texture and nutrition.
• Spicy Goulash: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for some extra heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Goulash Ahead of Time?

Yes! Southern Style Goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

2. Can I Freeze Goulash?

Absolutely. Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta cooks to the right texture.

4. What Should I Serve with Goulash?

Southern Style Goulash is great on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.

Southern Style Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef, this one-pot wonder is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make, budget-friendly, and full of flavor, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Happy cooking!