Southern Style Goulash
A Taste of Comfort in Every Bite
Ever craved that deliciously hearty dish that warms your soul and fills your belly? Southern Style Goulash is just that! This one-pot wonder combines the comforting flavors of ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomatoes into a creamy, satisfying meal. What’s even better? It’s quick to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights or those lazy weekends when all you want is something tasty without the fuss.

Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love this Southern Style Goulash. First off, cleanup is a breeze—everything cooks in one pot, so you can enjoy your meal without a mountain of dishes to tackle afterward. Plus, it’s super affordable and uses pantry staples, making it a perfect choice for families on a budget. And let’s not forget, it’s a total crowd-pleaser! Who can resist a warm bowl of cheesy, saucy goodness?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add elbow macaroni, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 20 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
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How to Make Southern Style Goulash (Overview)
Making this Southern Style Goulash is as easy as 1-2-3! Start by browning the ground beef until it’s golden and delicious. Add in your vegetables and stir until they’re nice and soft—this step really brings out the flavors. Next, throw in your sauces and spices. Bring it all to a bubbling boil before adding the elbow macaroni. Let it simmer until tender, and voilà! You’ve whipped up a comforting southern dish that’ll make the whole family smile. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic! It’s the secret to a rich flavor.
How to Serve Southern Style Goulash
Serving Southern Style Goulash is where the fun begins! You can plop it into big, colorful bowls for a cozy family dinner or dress it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a more refined look. Pair it with a fresh side salad for a crunch that complements the creamy goulash, or serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen—pure comfort!
How to Store Southern Style Goulash
Leftovers? Yes, please! This Southern Style Goulash keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Want to stash it for later? It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Southern Style Goulash
- Swap meats: Ground turkey or chicken works great if you want a leaner option.
- Vegetable boost: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Cream it up: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce!
- Make it gluten-free: Simply swap regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Switch it up by adding different flavors! You can make it vegan by using plant-based ground meat and veggie broth, or toss in some taco seasoning for a southwestern flair. The options are endless, and playful experimentation makes for even more delicious meals!

FAQs
Can I prepare this goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook it up and refrigerate it for a quick reheat during the week.
Can I freeze Southern Style Goulash?
For sure! Store it in an airtight container and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
Feel free to use any pasta you have on hand! Shells or penne work beautifully as well.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Southern Style Goulash
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add elbow macaroni, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 20 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
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