Southern Style Goulash

Name: Southern Style Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern
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)

Delicious Southern Style Goulash served in a bowl, showcasing rich ingredients.

By :

Sarah

September 3, 2026

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How to make Southern Style Goulash

Southern Style Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal that brings together flavors and ingredients that reflect the heart of Southern cuisine. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it’s hearty, filling, and incredibly easy to prepare. Here’s how to make it.

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)

Directions:

Sauté Onion & Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook it for about 3–4 minutes or until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute.
Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned, which should take around 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess grease in the pot, drain it before moving on.
Add Liquids & Seasoning:
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices—paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer.
Add Pasta:
Once the mixture is simmering, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to cook the pasta until it’s tender and allow the sauce to thicken.
Add Cheese (Optional):
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from heat. If you want a creamy finish, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese at this point. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before serving.
Serve:
Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Southern Style Goulash!

Why You’ll Love This Southern Style Goulash

Southern Style Goulash is not just a dish; it’s an experience that encapsulates warmth and comfort. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and rich spices creates a comforting flavor that warms the soul.
Quick and Easy: This dish is simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a hearty dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
Hearty & Filling: With hearty ingredients like beef and elbow macaroni, this goulash is filling and satisfying, making it a favorite for families.
Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or spices, allowing you to make it your own.

Nutritional Benefits

Southern Style Goulash is not only delicious but also offers various nutritional benefits.

Protein-Rich: The ground beef adds an excellent source of protein, which is necessary for muscle growth and repair.
Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like tomatoes and onions provide essential vitamins such as Vitamin C and potassium.
Carbohydrates: The elbow macaroni offers a solid source of carbohydrates, which supply energy for your daily activities.

What to Serve With Southern Style Goulash

Serving Southern Style Goulash can be just as fun as making it. Here are some ideas to pair with this dish:

Garlic Bread: The crusty texture and garlic flavor of garlic bread complement the goulash perfectly.
Green Salad: A fresh salad with greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of goulash.
Cornbread: This Southern classic is another great side dish that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of goulash.

How to Store Southern Style Goulash

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry; Southern Style Goulash stores well!

In the Refrigerator: Place cooled goulash into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze goulash. Put cooled goulash in freezer-safe containers. It should last for about 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Southern Style Goulash turns out just right:

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: When adding the macaroni, check for doneness. You want it tender but not mushy.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your goulash before serving. Everyone’s preference for salt and spice varies, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Use Quality Meat: Using good quality ground beef will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Variations

There are plenty of ways to adapt Southern Style Goulash to suit your tastes:

Vegetable Goulash: You can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version.
Spicy Goulash: If you enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Cheeseburger Goulash: For a fun twist, include pickles and a bit extra cheddar cheese to create a cheeseburger-inspired goulash.

FAQs

1. Can I make Southern Style Goulash ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat on the stove over low heat before serving.

2. What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
You can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even spaghetti.

3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply use more vegetables and beans for protein.

With these simple steps and tips, you’re all set to make a delightful pot of Southern Style Goulash that will surely be a hit at your next meal! Enjoy your cooking!