Southern Goulash

Southern Goulash is one of those comforting dishes that wraps you in a warm hug from the inside out. The hearty blend of tender ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and a rich tomato-based sauce makes every bite feel like home. There’s something about the balance of flavors—the subtle sweetness of the bell peppers, the savory depth from the beef, and the tanginess of the tomatoes—that makes this dish so satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that, once it starts simmering on the stove, fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma that draws everyone in.

What really sets Southern Goulash apart is its versatility. You can swap in different vegetables or pasta types based on what you have on hand. Some might even throw in a bit of heat with a pinch of cayenne or a sprinkle of chili flakes, but that’s the beauty of this dish—it adapts to your tastes. And don’t even get me started on how delicious the leftovers are! Goulash always seems to taste even better the next day when all the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze, which is always a win in my book!

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy and filling, Southern Goulash will never let you down. It’s that perfect balance of simplicity and comfort, and every spoonful reminds you of the joy that comes with sharing a homemade meal.

Key Ingredients for Southern Goulash

When it comes to Southern Goulash, the magic lies in the ingredients. Each one plays a special role in building that irresistible flavor profile we all crave. Let’s break down the key components that come together to make this dish a true comfort food classic.

• Ground Beef: The heart of this dish, providing a rich, savory base that fills the goulash with a hearty flavor. It’s the perfect protein to balance the sweetness of the vegetables and the tang of the tomatoes.
• Onion: Chopped onions add a slight sweetness and depth to the dish. They cook down beautifully, blending into the sauce and adding an aromatic base.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings that irresistible, pungent kick that enhances the savory profile of the beef and complements the other ingredients, giving it an extra layer of flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: These juicy, tangy tomatoes form the foundation of the sauce. They add a natural sweetness and a bit of acidity that helps balance the richness of the beef.
• Tomato Sauce: This smooth, velvety ingredient thickens the sauce, providing a mellow tomato flavor that blends seamlessly with the other components.
• Tomato Paste: The concentrated essence of tomatoes, tomato paste deepens the flavor and adds richness to the sauce, helping to create that luscious, thick texture.
• Beef Broth: The beef broth adds a savory, umami-filled liquid base that brings everything together. It helps the pasta absorb all the flavors as it cooks, creating a wonderfully comforting dish.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce infuses the goulash with a subtle tang and depth. It’s one of those secret ingredients that truly elevates the dish, enhancing the umami notes.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness from the brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the savory beef, rounding out the flavors perfectly.
• Chili Powder: This adds a mild heat and a touch of smokiness to the goulash, giving it that distinctive Southern flair. It brings the flavors to life without overwhelming the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Smoky, slightly sweet, and earthy, smoked paprika deepens the flavor of the sauce and adds a unique, aromatic element that sets this dish apart from others.
• Salt: A crucial seasoning that brings all the flavors into harmony. It enhances every bite, ensuring that the dish is well-seasoned without being overpowering.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle heat and enhances the savory notes of the beef, rounding out the overall flavor profile.
• Elbow Macaroni: This small, curved pasta is the perfect vessel for soaking up the delicious sauce, giving each bite a satisfying, tender chew. It’s classic in goulash and adds the perfect texture to the dish.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey cheddar cheese adds a sharp, creamy bite that contrasts beautifully with the savory, tangy sauce. It’s the finishing touch that brings everything together.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella brings a soft, stretchy creaminess to the goulash. When melted, it adds that signature gooey texture that makes every bite irresistible.

How to Make Southern Goulash

Serving Suggestions for Southern Goulash

Now that your Southern Goulash is bubbling away on the stove, ready to impart its comforting aromas throughout your kitchen, let’s talk about how to elevate this classic dish even further when it hits the table.

• Fresh Herb Garnish: Picture this—a steaming bowl of Southern Goulash topped with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil. Not only does this add a pop of color to your dish, but it also brings a touch of brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and sauce. The herbaceous notes will awaken your taste buds with each spoonful, making for a truly delightful dining experience.
• Garlic Bread on the Side: What better way to sop up every last bit of that flavorful sauce than with a side of warm, garlicky bread? Whether you opt for classic garlic bread slices or go for a crusty baguette brushed with garlic butter, the combination of crunchy bread and saucy goulash is a match made in comfort food heaven. Trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop of that delicious sauce behind.
• Fresh Salad Medley: Balance out the heartiness of your Southern Goulash with a side salad bursting with fresh greens, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and your favorite vinaigrette or dressing. The bright, crunchy salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting flavors of the goulash, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies all your cravings. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and add a splash of color to your dinner spread.

These simple yet effective serving suggestions are sure to take your Southern Goulash from a beloved classic to a memorable culinary experience that delights your taste buds and warms your soul. So, grab a bowl, dish up a generous serving, and savor every cozy bite of this comforting Southern favorite.

How to Store Southern Goulash

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your Southern Goulash, don’t worry—this dish stores beautifully and can be just as delicious the next day. To keep that rich, comforting flavor intact, it’s best to store your goulash in an airtight container. Simply allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into the container, as this will help prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.

For short-term storage, you can keep your Southern Goulash in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce from sticking. Add a splash of beef broth or water if it’s too thick after refrigeration.

If you want to store it for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Pour the cooled goulash into a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove, just like you would with fresh leftovers. The flavors might even improve as they continue to meld together while frozen—how’s that for a win?

Conclusion

And there you have it—Southern Goulash, a dish that’s equal parts cozy, comforting, and downright delicious! With its hearty ground beef, sweet bell peppers, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s no wonder this meal has earned a special place in kitchens across the South. Whether you’re cooking up a big batch for a family dinner or preparing a cozy meal just for yourself, this recipe is sure to hit the spot every time.

The beauty of Southern Goulash lies not only in its flavors but also in its versatility and ease. It’s a dish that’s as simple or as fancy as you want to make it, and it never fails to bring people together around the table. Whether you’re enjoying it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a side of garlic bread, or a crisp salad, it’s bound to make your meal feel extra special.

So, go ahead, dish up a generous serving, and savor every comforting bite of this Southern classic. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you decide to make it! If you’ve got any questions, need a little help along the way, or just want to share how it turned out, don’t hesitate to drop a comment. Happy cooking, and I hope your kitchen fills with the same warmth and deliciousness that Southern Goulash brings to every bite!

Print Recipe

Southern Goulash

Author: Maria Bennet Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins

Calories: 450

Description

Savor the comforting taste of Southern Goulash! A hearty blend of seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, bell peppers, and elbow macaroni simmered to perfection. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a cozy kitchen in the heart of the South. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Southern Goulash is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 cups elbow macaroni

• ¹⁄₂ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¹⁄₂ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a medium flame and add the ground beef.
2. Cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain off any excess fat from the cooked beef and return it to the skillet.
4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, just until fragrant.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the skillet with the beef and onion mixture.
7. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, stirring everything together until well combined.
8. Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, and mix again to evenly distribute the spices throughout the sauce.
9. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together.
10. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
11. Once the water is boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
12. Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the skillet with the simmering beef mixture, stirring to combine.
13. Reduce the heat to low and let everything cook together for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
14. Once the macaroni and beef are well combined, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
15. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt, about 3-4 minutes.
16. Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the Southern Goulash hot, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Note

• For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
• If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• You can swap elbow macaroni for any pasta shape, like penne or rotini.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a little heavy cream or sour cream before serving.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh finish.

Keywords: southern goulash recipe, classic goulash, Southern comfort food, one-pot meal, hearty beef dish