Southern Goulash: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Southern Goulash: Prepare to be transported back to your grandmother’s kitchen with this hearty and comforting dish! Imagine a symphony of flavors dancing on your tongue – tender beef, savory vegetables, and a rich, tomato-based sauce, all simmered to perfection. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening.

While the name might conjure images of Hungarian Goulash, this Southern variation boasts a unique charm and history all its own. Born from resourceful cooks looking to stretch ingredients and create satisfying meals, Southern Goulash represents the heart of Southern hospitality and culinary ingenuity. It’s a testament to making the most of what you have, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special.

People adore this dish for its incredible depth of flavor and satisfying texture. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a taste that’s both comforting and complex. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, offering a complete and nourishing meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a taste of home or simply looking for a delicious and easy dinner, Southern Goulash is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)
• Sour cream, for topping (optional)
• Chopped green onions, for topping (optional)

Browning the Beef and Sautéing Vegetables

1. Get started by browning the ground beef. In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned, making sure to crumble it well. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain off any excess grease. Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the pot. This will help prevent the goulash from being too greasy. I usually tilt the pot and use a spoon to hold back the beef while pouring off the grease.
3. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Now, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the bell pepper to soften slightly.
4. Stir in the minced garlic. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 1 minute more, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The garlic should become fragrant.

Simmering the Goulash

1. Add the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (undrained) into the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Incorporate the beans and corn. Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and the drained corn to the pot. Stir to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture.
3. Pour in the beef broth. Add the beef broth to the pot. This will provide the liquid base for the goulash and help to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
4. Season with spices. Add the chili powder, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. The cayenne pepper adds a nice kick, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
5. Bring to a simmer. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Cooking the Macaroni and Combining

1. Cook the elbow macaroni. While the goulash is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the goulash.
2. Drain the macaroni. Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it well in a colander.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the goulash. Add the drained macaroni to the pot with the simmering goulash. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes. Continue to simmer the goulash for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the macaroni to absorb some of the sauce and flavors. This will also help to thicken the goulash slightly.

Serving and Garnishing

1. Serve hot. Serve the Southern Goulash hot, straight from the pot.
2. Garnish (optional). Top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions, if desired. These toppings add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder goulash, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Meat Options: You can substitute ground turkey or ground sausage for the ground beef. Ground turkey is a leaner option, while ground sausage will add a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables to the goulash, such as diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms. Add them along with the onions and bell pepper.
• Bean Variations: You can use different types of beans, such as pinto beans or black beans, instead of kidney beans.
• Pasta Alternatives: If you don’t have elbow macaroni, you can use other small pasta shapes, such as ditalini or small shells.
• Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the cooked macaroni during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.
• Freezing Instructions: Southern Goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating Instructions: Reheat the goulash in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little bit of beef broth or water if it seems too thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this hearty and flavorful Southern Goulash recipe! It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Feel free to customize it to your liking and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! My take on Southern Goulash, a dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for comfort food that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening or a casual weeknight dinner. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and that slightly sweet, tangy tomato-based sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, leaving you wanting more with every single bite.

What makes this Southern Goulash so special? Well, it’s the simplicity, really. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip this up. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a bit more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. On the other hand, if you’re cooking for little ones or those with sensitive palates, you can easily omit the spice altogether.

Beyond the basic recipe, there are so many ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences. For a richer flavor, try using bone-in beef chuck. The bones will add depth and complexity to the sauce. You could also experiment with different types of vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes would be delicious additions. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans for extra protein and fiber?

Serving Suggestions:

This Southern Goulash is fantastic served over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even egg noodles. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese adds a touch of richness and tang. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. And don’t forget a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the goulash.

Variations:

Looking for a lighter version? Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe and opt for leaner cuts of meat. For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with lentils or chickpeas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe you’ll love it as much as my family and I do. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic.

Once you’ve made this Southern Goulash, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Please share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking!