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Southern Style Goulash
Hearty, Saucy, and Soul-Warming – A One-Pot Southern Classic
Introduction
Southern Style Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal that combines seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, tomato-based sauce. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and ideal for feeding a hungry family or crowd. With roots in American comfort cooking, this dish delivers bold flavor and nostalgic warmth in every bite.
Origin and Cultural Significance
While inspired by the Hungarian dish “gulyás,” American-style goulash—particularly the Southern version—has evolved into its own beloved classic. Southern cooks adopted and simplified the recipe during the Great Depression and postwar era, using pantry staples like canned tomatoes, ground beef, and pasta to stretch meals and nourish large families. It has remained a staple in school cafeterias, church potlucks, and kitchen tables across the South ever since, celebrated for its warmth, simplicity, and satisfying flavor.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Additions
- Green bell pepper (diced and sautéed with the onion)
- Hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat
- Corn kernels or canned beans for added texture
- Ground turkey or sausage as meat alternatives
- Shredded cheese stirred in or melted on top
Tips for Success
- Brown the beef thoroughly and drain excess fat for a cleaner, less greasy dish.
- Sauté onions and garlic for extra depth of flavor.
- Use beef broth instead of water to boost richness.
- Cook pasta just until tender to avoid mushy noodles.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and thicken.
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add uncooked elbow macaroni, stir well, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Optional: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving or sprinkle on top and cover for a few minutes to melt.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot!
Description
Southern Style Goulash is a savory and saucy blend of beef, pasta, and tomatoes. It’s thick, hearty, and loaded with seasoning, perfect for when you need a quick, filling meal with minimal cleanup. The pasta soaks up the tomato-rich sauce, creating a dish that’s both homey and irresistibly satisfying.
Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings without cheese)
- Calories: ~360
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
Additions like cheese or sausage will increase calorie and fat content.
Conclusion
Southern Style Goulash is a true classic—simple, nostalgic, and endlessly customizable. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and keeps them full and happy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a Sunday supper, this dish delivers old-fashioned comfort with ease.
Recommendation
Serve with cornbread, garlic toast, or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. Leftovers reheat beautifully and even taste better the next day. For potlucks or gatherings, double the batch and keep warm in a slow cooker.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten this dish without sacrificing its charm, try lean ground turkey, whole-wheat pasta, or reduced-sodium broth. Add diced zucchini, spinach, or carrots to increase the veggie content. Portion mindfully, savor each bite, and enjoy this dish as a warm, grounding treat that nourishes both body and spirit.
Let me know if you’d like a printable version or a slow-cooker adaptation!