If you’re on the hunt for a hearty one-pot meal that’s like a warm hug at the end of a long day, Southern Goulash might just become your new favorite. Bursting with tender ground beef, sweet onions, colorful bell peppers, and a savory tomato sauce wrapped around classic elbow macaroni, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl. Whether you serve it smothered in melty cheddar with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or keep it simple, Southern Goulash is a true Southern staple that gets everyone running to the dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity is at the heart of Southern Goulash, and every ingredient matters. These pantry staples come together to create layers of flavor, a satisfying texture, and that homestyle look we all adore.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Opt for lean or regular beef—a touch of fat adds flavor, but you can always drain the excess grease.
- Onion, small, diced: The humble onion brings sweetness and depth to every bite.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Fresh garlic is key for authentic, aromatic Southern flavor.
- Green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a pop of color and a subtle peppery crunch.
- Diced tomatoes, 15-ounce can (undrained): The juices infuse your goulash with bright, tangy flavor and keep everything saucy.
- Tomato sauce, 15-ounce can: Creates the perfect rich, velvety base for the dish.
- Elbow macaroni, 1 ½ cups (uncooked): Classic shape that soaks up all that delicious sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon: Just a splash deepens the savory notes and brings everything together.
- Seasoned salt, 1 teaspoon: Trust me, it’s the secret ingredient for that irresistible Southern flavor.
- Black pepper, ½ teaspoon: Gives the dish a mild kick without overpowering.
- Paprika, 1 teaspoon: Adds color and a hint of smoky sweetness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup (optional): For a creamy, gooey finish that serious cheese lovers can’t resist.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch right before serving.
How to Make Southern Goulash
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start with your largest skillet or trusty Dutch oven, setting it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart as it cooks, letting it brown beautifully and develop all those savory notes. Don’t forget to drain off any extra grease—this keeps the dish hearty but not heavy.
Step 2: Soften the Veggies
Toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped green bell pepper. Give everything a good stir, and let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes. When your kitchen smells incredible and the vegetables are soft and fragrant, you know you’re right on track for a classic Southern Goulash experience.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then sprinkle in the Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix it all together so every bite will be full of flavor. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors mingle for a few minutes.
Step 4: Simmer with Macaroni
Time for the elbow macaroni to join the party! Stir the uncooked pasta right into the pot, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes, giving it a good stir now and then. If you notice it getting too thick, add a splash of water or broth to keep it saucy. The pasta will soak up all the goodness, making each bite rich and satisfying.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once your macaroni is tender, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese if you’re using it. The cheese will melt into the goulash, making everything luscious and creamy. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color, and serve Southern Goulash hot, straight from the pot.
How to Serve Southern Goulash
Garnishes
For that extra bit of flair, a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley lifts the whole dish and adds a pop of green. If you’re a cheese enthusiast, an extra sprinkle of cheddar on each bowl as you serve will make Southern Goulash even more irresistible. Sometimes, a crack of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce is all you need to tailor it to your taste.
Side Dishes
Keep things classic by pairing your Southern Goulash with homemade cornbread, buttery garlic toast, or even simple green beans on the side. For a lighter touch, a bright green salad with a tangy vinaigrette perfectly balances the savory richness of your main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Southern Goulash family-style in a big cast-iron skillet right at the table to capture that homey, communal feel. For parties, spoon it into individual ramekins, melt more cheese over the top, and broil for a minute—mini goulash casseroles! Or pile it high over baked potatoes for a fun twist that will surprise your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about Southern Goulash is how well it holds up for leftovers. Cool the goulash completely and transfer it to an airtight container; it will keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors keep developing, so don’t be surprised if tomorrow’s lunch tastes even better.
Freezing
Have more than you can eat this week? This dish freezes beautifully! Portion the cooled Southern Goulash into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat Southern Goulash gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring well between each, to heat it thoroughly without overcooking the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional in Southern Goulash, you can substitute with shells, rotini, or even gluten-free options. Just check for doneness a minute or two earlier, as different shapes can cook at slightly different rates.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a little heat, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when you sauté the onions and peppers. You could also swirl in your favorite hot sauce just before serving for a spicy kick.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped zucchini, corn, or even a handful of spinach toward the end of cooking. Southern Goulash is wonderfully flexible and a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand.
What’s the best way to make this ahead for a crowd?
If you’re planning ahead, assemble everything up to the point of adding macaroni, cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring the mixture to a simmer, add pasta, and cook as usual. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy but lets you do most of the prep work in advance.
Is there a dairy-free or lighter version?
Yes! Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also use ground turkey or chicken to lighten things up, or bulk out the sauce with extra veggies for a lower-calorie twist without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about sitting down to a bowl of Southern Goulash—it’s cozy, nostalgic, and always crowd-pleasing. I hope this becomes as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine. Don’t be shy about making it your own, and most importantly, enjoy every bite with the people you love!
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Southern Goulash Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Southern Goulash is a classic comfort food dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and flavorful seasonings in a satisfying one-pot meal. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a family dinner and is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
Sauce and Pasta:
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Optional:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Add Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Cook until softened.
- Make Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, black pepper, and paprika. Simmer.
- Cook Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni, cover, and cook on low heat for 15–18 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in cheese if using. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For a heartier version, consider adding cooked sausage or using a mix of beef and ground turkey.
- This dish reheats well and makes delicious leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
