If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings together bold flavors with a touch of nostalgia, you’re going to fall in love with this Southern Goulash Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, with tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni that soak up all those rich, savory juices. This recipe is a beloved classic that’s easy to make but delivers a satisfying depth of flavor every time you cook it. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or bringing it to a family gathering, this Southern Goulash Recipe will quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Southern Goulash Recipe shines because of its simple, down-to-earth ingredients, each one playing an essential role in building its hearty, comforting character. From the savory ground beef to the aromatic herbs and the creamy touch of cheddar cheese, every ingredient harmonizes beautifully to create a dish that’s both cozy and full of flavor.
- 1 lb ground beef: The rich, meaty base that makes this goulash so satisfying and filling.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and slightly pungent aroma that deepens the flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an essential punch of fragrant warmth and zest.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides juicy texture and a fresh, bright tomato flavor.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato richness.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates the perfect saucy base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the dish moist and flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Infuses tangy, umami notes that boost complexity.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a mellow finish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle smoky undertone that’s classic to Southern cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds herbaceous, earthy flavors that lift the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Provides a sweet, aromatic touch to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle heat and spicy background.
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked: The chewy pasta that perfectly captures all those delicious flavors.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts on top to add creaminess and a slight sharpness for finishing flair.
How to Make Southern Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and browning your ground beef. Break it up gently with a spatula as it cooks, letting it develop a nice color without burning. This step builds the fundamental meaty flavor that will anchor your Southern Goulash Recipe. Once browned, don’t forget to drain off any excess fat for a cleaner taste and better texture.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to your pot. Cook them down for about three to four minutes until they’re soft and releasing their heavenly aromas. This step layers your dish with a subtle sweetness and a fragrant depth that all good Southern food relies on.
Step 3: Mix in Tomatoes and Broth
Now stir in your diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. This combination forms the luscious, saucy heart of the Southern Goulash Recipe. Make sure everything gets well incorporated before moving on.
Step 4: Season Perfectly
Time to bring out the flavor magic by adding Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. These seasonings gently build complexity without overwhelming – just the right balance to enhance every bite.
Step 5: Simmer to Marry Flavors
Bring your mixture up to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer for around 10 minutes. This gentle cooking helps all those tasty ingredients get cozy together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Cook the Macaroni
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully covered by the sauce and liquid. Cover your pot and let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until your pasta reaches tender, perfect doneness—this step transforms your Southern Goulash Recipe into a full meal.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Serve
For a little extra indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving. Let it melt into the warm pasta, adding a creamy, slightly tangy finish that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Southern Goulash Recipe
Garnishes
To give your Southern Goulash Recipe an extra pop, consider fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or sliced green onions. These add a burst of color and a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, saucy pasta.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple crisp salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or buttery cornbread are fantastic companions for soaking up every last bit of that savory sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Southern Goulash Recipe in individual cast-iron skillets or oven-safe bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crunchy fried onions for texture. For a fun twist, try baking it with extra cheese on top for a crispy crust, turning this classic into a Southern-style casserole delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Southern Goulash Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to three months. Just remember to leave out cheese toppings until you reheat, as they melt best fresh.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also microwave single servings, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and preserve that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this Southern Goulash Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well. Just keep an eye on the moisture; you might need a bit more broth or sauce to keep it from drying out.
Do I have to use elbow macaroni?
Elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for this dish because its shape holds the sauce well, but you can certainly use other pasta shapes like small shells or rotini if you prefer.
Is this Southern Goulash Recipe spicy?
It’s generally mild with a warm, comforting flavor thanks to the paprika and seasonings. If you like some heat, a pinch of cayenne or some hot sauce can be added to customize it to your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?
Reheating on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water works great, as it keeps the sauce moist. Microwaving in short bursts and stirring often can also help maintain the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Goulash Recipe is such a gem—comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to put together. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate and becomes even better as leftovers. I truly hope you give it a try and see why it has earned a special place in so many kitchens. Once you do, it’s bound to be a favorite that you’ll reach for time and again.
Print
Southern Goulash Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Southern Goulash is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with classic herbs and spices. This easy stovetop recipe combines savory flavors and simple ingredients for a satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce Base
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to avoid grease in the final dish.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aromatic foundation.
- Add tomato products and broth: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth until well combined, creating a rich and flavorful sauce base.
- Season the sauce: Incorporate Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the sauce.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the macaroni: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the macaroni is tender and cooked through.
- Add cheese (optional): Just before serving, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top so it melts slightly, adding creamy richness to the dish.
Notes
- Be sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For a vegetarian variant, replace ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few minutes after cooking the pasta.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
