Southern Goulash: A Comforting, Cheesy Classic
Southern Goulash is a hearty, satisfying dish that has long been a staple of Southern comfort food. This easy one-pan meal combines ground chuck, elbow macaroni, savory tomatoes, and plenty of cheese, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly day. Simple ingredients and a blend of spices give it a rich, comforting flavor that everyone will love. Plus, with the addition of cheese on top, you get that extra touch of melty goodness that makes each bite a little bit more special. Here’s how to make this delicious Southern Goulash recipe!
Ingredients
For the Goulash
- 1 lb ground chuck
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ⅓ cup red or green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 can (15 oz) stewed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups water
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp seasoning salt
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (optional)
- Dash of Tabasco sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Southern Goulash
Step 1: Brown the Meat with Vegetables
- Cook the ground beef – In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground chuck. Break up the meat as it cooks, stirring frequently to ensure even browning.
- Add onion and bell pepper – Once the meat starts to brown, add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to cook until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, and Seasonings
- Mix in tomatoes and sauce – Add the can of stewed tomatoes and the can of tomato sauce to the skillet with the browned meat and vegetables.
- Add seasonings – Stir in the sugar, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, seasoning salt, garlic salt, black pepper, Cajun seasoning (if using), and a dash of Tabasco sauce. These spices add layers of flavor to the dish, giving it a delicious Southern taste.
Step 3: Add Macaroni and Water
- Add macaroni and water – Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni and 4 cups of water into the skillet. Stir everything together to make sure the macaroni is well combined with the beef, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil – Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
- Simmer on low – Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and allow the goulash to simmer until the macaroni is tender and most of the water has been absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Adjust consistency if needed – If the goulash appears too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too liquid, uncover the skillet and let it cook a bit longer to evaporate the excess liquid.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve
- Add cheese topping – Before serving, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese over the goulash. The cheese adds a creamy, rich layer to the dish.
- Melt the cheese – If you’re using an ovenproof pan, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese. Otherwise, cover the skillet and let the cheese melt on the stovetop.
Tips for Making the Perfect Southern Goulash
- Use Ground Chuck for Flavor – Ground chuck provides a good balance of flavor and fat, keeping the goulash rich and flavorful. You can substitute with ground beef or turkey if desired.
- Choose Your Cheese Wisely – While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties. Sharp cheddar, Colby, or Monterey Jack can add a unique twist.
- Adjust the Spice Level – For a milder flavor, skip the Cajun seasoning and Tabasco sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more Tabasco or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Avoid Overcooking the Macaroni – Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy. The macaroni should be tender but still hold its shape.
- Customize with Additional Vegetables – Add more vegetables like corn, green beans, or diced tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Southern Goulash ahead of time?
Yes! Southern Goulash can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it from drying out. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power until warmed through.
Can I freeze Southern Goulash?
Absolutely! Southern Goulash freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm in a skillet or microwave.
What substitutions can I make?
- Protein – Substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese – Try using Colby, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for a twist on the flavor.
- Pasta – If you don’t have elbow macaroni, use another small pasta like shells or ditalini.
Is Southern Goulash gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that any canned ingredients (like tomato sauce and stewed tomatoes) are labeled gluten-free. Always check seasoning mixes as well, as some may contain gluten.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef with onions and bell pepper, then transfer to a slow cooker. Add all other ingredients (except cheese), and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Stir in cheese at the end and allow it to melt before serving.
Southern Goulash is a true comfort food with its rich, savory flavors and gooey cheese topping. Simple ingredients, one-pot cooking, and plenty of flavor make it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Serve it warm and let the comforting blend of tomatoes, pasta, and cheese bring a little Southern warmth to your table!