Description
Southern Goulash is a hearty, one-pot dish filled with ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, tomato-based sauce. This comforting recipe is a staple in Southern kitchens, offering an easy, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve it with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option) 1 medium onion, diced 1 medium green bell pepper, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked) 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce 1 cup beef broth (or water) 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tsp paprika 1 tsp Italian seasoning 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste) 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat) 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease if needed. Sauté vegetables: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well. Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, ensuring it is submerged in the liquid. Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce. Optional cheese topping: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt before serving. Serve hot: Ladle the goulash into bowls and enjoy with your favorite sides.
Notes
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for variety. For extra veggies, add a cup of corn or diced zucchini along with the tomatoes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.