Southern Style Goulash

A warm bowl of Southern Style Goulash brings back memories of cozy family dinners on cold evenings. This hearty one-pot dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, and it combines the flavors of ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, making it a delightful staple in any kitchen. Its versatility also allows it to be tailored to suit your personal taste, making it a reliable choice for busy weeknights.

This recipe is perfect for families or anyone who appreciates comfort food. It’s an excellent option for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness whenever the mood strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It cooks in one pot, minimizing cleanup.
• The combination of beef, pasta, and spices delivers a delightful, comforting flavor.
• The dish thickens beautifully as it cooks, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
• Adding cheese at the end creates a creamy finish that’s purely delicious.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what to gather for your Southern Style Goulash.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Pasta

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

For Serving

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Cheddar cheese adds creaminess but is optional.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey for ground beef
• Vegetable broth for beef broth
• Elbow pasta for any short pasta
• Add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini

How to Make It

This dish is simple to whip up with straightforward steps.

Sauté Onion & Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Add Liquids & Seasoning

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Add Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

Add Cheese (Optional)

Remove from heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy finish, if using. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to thicken.

Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, suitable for freezing.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef for a healthier dish.
• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
• Let it sit after cooking to help thicken the sauce.
• Consider using a mix of cheeses for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve hot breadsticks on the side for extras.
• Enjoy it during family gatherings when you need a crowd-pleaser.