🍝 Southern Goulash

Southern Goulash is a hearty, one-pot comfort food made with ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Unlike traditional European goulash, this American Southern-style version is simple, budget-friendly, and packed with cozy flavors. It’s a family favorite that comes together quickly and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

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📝 Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional but traditional)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or small pasta)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups water or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional topping)

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👩‍🍳 Full Instructions

Step 1: Brown the beef

In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.

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Step 2: Add vegetables

Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

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Step 3: Build the sauce

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

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Step 4: Add liquid and pasta

Pour in water or beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and stir.

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Step 5: Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.

If it becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth.

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Step 6: Finish and serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Side salad
• Steamed green beans
• Cornbread
• Pickles or coleslaw

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💡 Tips for Best Southern Goulash

• Use beef broth instead of water for deeper flavor
• Add extra vegetables like carrots or mushrooms
• Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking
• Let it sit 5–10 minutes before serving to thicken
• Leftovers taste even better the next day

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⏱️ Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6

Southern Goulash is a warm, comforting, and filling one-pot meal made with simple ingredients, rich tomato flavor, and tender pasta—perfect for easy family dinners. 🍝🔥✨