Delicious Southern Style Goulash Recipe Ready in 40 Minutes
There’s something undeniably comforting about Southern Style Goulash. Imagine a steaming pot of elbow macaroni, tender ground beef, and rich tomato sauce all mingling together, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma that beckons everyone to the dinner table. This dish embodies the warmth and heartiness of classic Southern cooking, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is good old-fashioned comfort food.
As the memories flood in, I can’t help but think of family gatherings spent in the kitchen, laughter echoing above the sounds of bubbling pasta water. Whether it’s a laid-back weekday dinner or a lively weekend gathering, Southern Style Goulash is always a hit, drawing people in with its inviting flavors. So grab your favorite big pot and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that promises to create delicious memories!
Why You'll Love This Southern Style Goulash
- This incredible Southern Style Goulash transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Southern Style Goulash
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Southern Style Goulash:
2 cups elbow macaroni – This pasta is the heart of the dish, soaking up the sauce and providing a delightful texture.
1 pound ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option that still delivers on flavor.
1 medium yellow onion, diced – Onions add sweetness and depth to the dish, cooking down beautifully to enhance the flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic infuses the goulash with aromatic goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – These provide a tangy base that brightens up the entire dish.
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – A rich and thick sauce that binds all the ingredients together for perfect harmony.
2 cups beef broth – Using broth instead of water adds extra depth and richness to your goulash.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory kick and umami flavor that’s hard to resist.
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little kick that balances the flavors nicely.
1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color to the goulash.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs gives your goulash that classic Italian twist that complements the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Southern Style Goulash
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Southern Style Goulash:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat, so the dish doesn’t become too greasy. A little browning adds flavor, and you’ll want all that deliciousness to shine through!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the pot and cook it for about five minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, letting those phenomenal aromas fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together; you’re creating a glorious sauce that’s the star of the show.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens! When the sauce looks and smells divine, stir in the elbow macaroni.
Step 5: Simmer with the Pasta
Allow the goulash to simmer uncovered for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. In this time, the macaroni will soak up all that savory goodness and become wonderfully tender.
Step 6: Taste and Serve
Taste the goulash and adjust the seasonings if desired. Once it’s just right, serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a handful of cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Dinner is ready to be devoured!
Southern Style Goulash is not just a meal; it’s a concoction of love and laughter, perfect for sharing with family and friends. So the next time you need a recipe that delivers on flavor and nostalgia, remember this delightful dish, and watch as it brings people together around your table!
You Must Know About Southern Style Goulash
- This showstopping Southern Style Goulash delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Southern Style Goulash Cooking Process
To achieve the best results while cooking Southern Style Goulash, start by browning the ground beef first. Once that’s done, sauté the onions and garlic to infuse the flavors, then combine everything with the pasta for a cozy, hearty meal.
Add Your Touch to Southern Style Goulash
Feel free to customize your Southern Style Goulash! You can replace ground beef with turkey or even opt for plant-based protein. Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or a splash of hot sauce for a kick!
Storing & Reheating Southern Style Goulash
Store leftover Southern Style Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain the creamy texture and heat through until piping hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Southern Style Goulash
- This professional-quality Southern Style Goulash relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sometimes when I make Southern Style Goulash, I get so caught up in serving it that I barely notice everyone going back for seconds. It’s a reminder that food truly brings people together.
FAQs About Southern Style Goulash
What is Southern Style Goulash?
Southern Style Goulash is a hearty dish that brings together flavors and textures, making it a comfort food favorite. This version typically features elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a blend of tomatoes and seasonings that create a rich and savory sauce. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy evenings or when you want to serve something warm and filling without too much fuss. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with cheese, this dish is bound to be a hit at your family table.
How can I customize Southern Style Goulash?
You can easily make this Southern Style Goulash your own by adding vegetables or swapping proteins. Consider mixing in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can replace the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based protein for a healthier twist. Additionally, adding spices like red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the dish for those who enjoy a little kick. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!
How do I store Southern Style Goulash?
Storing Southern Style Goulash is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing goulash in freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
Can Southern Style Goulash be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Southern Style Goulash is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s a great dish to prepare on weekends for easy weekday meals. You may find that the flavors deepen and improve after sitting in the fridge for a day or two, making it a scrumptious option for busy nights or gatherings.
Conclusion for Southern Style Goulash
In summary, Southern Style Goulash is a delicious, versatile dish that embodies comfort food. With its rich mixture of ground beef, elbow macaroni, and flavorful tomato sauce, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your personal touches, this meal is bound to satisfy your cravings. Remember, cooking is about sharing love, and what better way to do that than with a hearty serving of Southern Style Goulash? Enjoy your cooking adventures!
Southern Style Goulash
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Stir in the elbow macaroni.
- Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce has thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cheese if desired.
