The Comfort of Southern Style Goulash
As the leaves begin to turn and the cool breeze settles in, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a warm, hearty meal filling your home with delicious aromas. Growing up in the South, cozy evenings around the dinner table often meant my mother serving up a bubbling pot of goulash. This Southern Style Goulash, with its tender elbow macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and rich tomato sauce, is a dish that transports you back to those comforting moments, bringing warmth to even the chilliest of nights. This easy weeknight dinner is not just about filling bellies; it’s about creating cherished memories and sharing love through food.
So gather your loved ones close, because this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will rave about this hearty meal that’s packed with flavor.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal and each other’s company!
- Customizable: With plenty of room for variations, you can make this goulash uniquely your own.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The combination of tender pasta, rich beef, and creamy cheese makes for a truly comforting dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Southern Style Goulash
Gather These Simple Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Let’s Make It Together
Sauté Onion & Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir frequently until browned and cooked through, then drain any excess grease.
Add Liquids & Seasoning: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring everything to a simmer.
Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Add Cheese (Optional): If you’re feeling indulgent, remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy finish. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.
Serve: Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy every bite!
Fun Ways to Customize It
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful, nutritious twist that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a zesty kick.
- Switch the Cheese: Try using pepper jack or even mozzarella for a different cheesy flavor.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a touch of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for an even creamier texture.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this goulash ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove until warmed through.
- Ingredient Swaps: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- Slicing Tricks: To easily dice your onion, take your time and slice it properly. A sharp knife works wonders!
- Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw before reheating!
What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 6g
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 800mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the goulash a day in advance and heat it up when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap out the beef for turkey, or the elbow macaroni for any pasta shape you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for lasting freshness.
How long does it last?
If stored properly, this Southern Style Goulash can last in the fridge for about 4 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Wrapping It Up
There’s just something so cozy about a pot of Southern Style Goulash simmering on the stove, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas and wrapping you in warmth. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a soulful dish that brings family together and creates lasting memories.
Save this Southern Style Goulash to your cozy dinner board so it’s ready when you need a delicious, comforting treat!
