Name: Southern Style Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Southern style goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked Southern comfort food. With its tender ground beef, chunky vegetables, and cheesy pasta all simmered together in a zesty sauce, it’s a simple yet flavorful meal that brings back memories of family dinners. Perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 390
Protein: 24 grams
Carbohydrates: 45 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 4 grams
Sodium: 610 mg

Why Make This Southern Style Goulash

Southern style goulash combines classic Southern ingredients, resulting in a dish that’s not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of beef broth, spices, and cheddar cheese creates a savory, satisfying meal that warms your soul. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. It’s budget-friendly too, making it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

How to Make Southern Style Goulash

Making Southern style goulash is straightforward and fun. You’ll start with browning the beef and vegetables, then you’ll mix in the pasta and spices, allowing all the ingredients to come together and create a rich sauce. The final touch is melting the cheese, which makes each serving irresistibly gooey and delicious!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. This step will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!

Step 2: Draining

Drain any excess fat from the skillet. This keeps your goulash from being overly greasy and ensures a more balanced flavor.

Step 3: Mixing

Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, elbow macaroni, paprika, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Cooking

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the liquid has thickened into a delicious sauce.

Step 5: Finishing

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s nicely melted and gooey. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Southern Style Goulash

Southern style goulash is perfect on its own, but you can elevate the meal with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For a family dinner, consider pairing it with sweet cornbread for a true Southern feast!

How to Store Southern Style Goulash

To store leftover goulash, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze goulash for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Expert Tips for Perfect Southern Style Goulash

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for some heat.
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Experiment with other types of cheese—like Monterey Jack or mozzarella—for different flavors.
If you like it saucy, add a little more beef broth as it simmers.
Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Delicious Variations

Vegetarian Goulash: Swap out the ground beef for mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead.
Spicy Goulash: Add green chilies or jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Baked Goulash: Transfer the goulash to a baking dish, top it with additional cheese, and bake it at 350°F for 20 minutes for a bubbly, cheesy top.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy cheese and simple flavors make it appealing to children, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and veggies in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours and stir in cheese just before serving.
What can I serve with goulash?
Pair it with garlic bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and check the labels on your beef broth and diced tomatoes to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Southern style goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Its comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its gooey cheese and seasoned beef mingling beautifully with the pasta, every bite is a reminder of the love that goes into home cooking. So, gather your ingredients and give this delightful goulash a try; you won’t be disappointed!