Quick Overview

Southern goulash is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This recipe showcases a blend of hearty ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta that come together in a delightful harmony. Whether you are preparing a meal for your family or hosting friends, this southern goulash will surely be the star of your dinner. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy nights while still delivering rich flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create the perfect southern goulash, gather the following ingredients:

Ground Beef (1 pound)

Ground beef serves as the protein base of this dish. It provides rich flavor and texture while absorbing the essence of spices and other ingredients during cooking. Opt for lean ground beef to balance taste and healthiness.

Bell Peppers (1 cup)

Chopped bell peppers add vibrant color and crunch to the dish. They also contribute sweetness that balances the savory flavors. Use a mix of green and red peppers for an appealing presentation.

Onion (1 medium)

A chopped medium onion adds depth to the flavor profile of your southern goulash. Sautéing onions releases their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces)

Canned diced tomatoes introduce acidity and moisture into the mix. They also serve as the main sauce component in this recipe, helping to bind all ingredients together seamlessly.

Elbow Macaroni (2 cups)

Elbow macaroni is essential for adding heartiness to your goulash. Its shape perfectly holds onto sauce while providing a satisfying bite that complements the other components.

Beef Broth (2 cups)

Beef broth enriches the dish with its deep flavor. It helps cook the pasta while keeping everything moist and tender as it simmers on the stove.

Worcestershire Sauce (2 tablespoons)

Worcestershire sauce gives your southern goulash an umami boost that elevates its flavor profile. Just a couple of tablespoons can make a significant difference in taste.

Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)

Garlic powder adds warmth and depth without overpowering other flavors in this dish. It complements both meat and vegetables beautifully.

Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial to enhance all flavors in your southern goulash. Adjust according to personal preference; remember that you can always add more later!

Step By Step Recipe: Southern Goulash

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious southern goulash:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add one pound of ground beef. Cook until browned evenly, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes; make sure no pink remains before draining excess grease from the pan.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once your ground beef is browned, add one cup of chopped bell peppers and one medium onion to the skillet. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes or until they become tender and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking while ensuring even cooking throughout.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Introduce one can of diced tomatoes along with two tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce into the skillet containing meat and vegetables. Sprinkle one teaspoon of garlic powder along with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Stir well until everything is combined thoroughly.

Step 4: Incorporate Beef Broth

Pour in two cups of beef broth while mixing all ingredients evenly within your skillet. This will create a flavorful base for simmering; bring it up to a gentle boil before proceeding further.

Step 5: Add Elbow Macaroni

Once boiling occurs, add two cups of elbow macaroni directly into the mixture without rinsing beforehand! Lower heat slightly after adding macaroni so it can cook properly in this tasty liquid concoction; cover partially with a lid.

Step 6: Simmer Until Cooked Through

Allow your southern goulash mixture to simmer uncovered on low heat for about 15-20 minutes or until macaroni reaches al dente consistency—stir gently every few minutes so nothing sticks! You may need additional broth if it appears too thick at any point during cooking time.

Serving and Storing Tips

Enjoy your delicious meal with these serving suggestions:

Serving Tip 1: Garnish Before Serving

Before serving hot bowls of southern goulash, consider garnishing each portion with freshly chopped parsley or shredded cheese for added visual appeal! Both options enhance flavors while making every bite more enjoyable.

Serving Tip 2: Pair With Bread

Serving crusty bread alongside this hearty meal is an excellent idea! Choose garlic bread or warm rolls; they pair perfectly by soaking up any leftover sauce from bowls—making every bite satisfying!

Storing Tip 1: Refrigerate Leftovers

If you have leftover southern goulash after dinner, allow it cool completely first before transferring into airtight containers! Store them in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to three days—no need for waste!

Storing Tip 2: Freezing Options

For longer storage solutions beyond refrigeration timeframe mentioned earlier—portion leftovers into freezer-safe bags! Label them clearly with dates before freezing them—this way they’ll last happily up until three months later when you’re ready again!

Mistakes to avoid

When making southern goulash, one common mistake is overcooking the pasta. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and lose its texture. To prevent this, cook the pasta slightly less than the package instructions indicate. It will continue cooking while you mix it with the other ingredients, giving you a perfect al dente bite.

Another mistake is using low-quality ground meat. The flavor of your southern goulash relies heavily on the meat you choose. Opt for fresh ground beef or turkey from a reputable source. This ensures that your dish will have robust flavors and a satisfying mouthfeel.

Using too many spices can overwhelm your southern goulash. While seasoning is essential, be cautious not to overshadow the natural flavors of the dish. Stick to classic seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika, allowing the primary ingredients to shine through without excessive spice.

Not allowing enough time for flavors to meld is another pitfall. Goulash becomes more flavorful when cooked slowly, as this allows all ingredients to blend beautifully. Try letting it simmer for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal taste.

Lastly, neglecting to taste your dish before serving can lead to disappointment. Always sample your southern goulash at various stages of cooking to adjust seasoning accordingly. This practice guarantees a balanced flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.

Tips and tricks

When preparing southern goulash, start by browning your meat properly in a hot skillet. This step is crucial as it develops a rich flavor base for your dish. Allow the meat to brown evenly without stirring too frequently; this caramelization adds depth to your goulash that makes it truly delicious.

Consider using a combination of bell peppers and onions for added sweetness and texture. Sauté them until they become tender before adding other ingredients. This not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your dish, making it more visually appealing.

For a creamier consistency, add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream towards the end of cooking. This addition brings richness while balancing out any acidity from tomatoes or spices used in your recipe. Stir well to incorporate it fully into the mixture before serving.

Don’t forget about garnishing! Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil sprinkled on top just before serving can elevate your dish significantly. They not only contribute freshness but also enhance visual appeal, making each bowl look inviting.

Lastly, consider letting your southern goulash rest for a few minutes after cooking before you serve it. This resting time allows flavors to settle and meld further while ensuring that every bowl you serve is hot and delicious.

Suggestions for southern goulash

Pairing cornbread with your southern goulash can create a delightful meal experience. The slight sweetness of cornbread complements the savory flavors of goulash perfectly, making each bite enjoyable. Serve warm with butter spread on top for added comfort.

If you want a lighter option, consider serving southern goulash over zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta. Zoodles are nutritious and provide an excellent base for soaking up the sauce without adding unnecessary carbs.

For those who enjoy heat, adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes while cooking can give your dish an exciting kick! Adjust the amount based on personal preference so that everyone can appreciate the spicy notes without overwhelming their palate.

You may want to serve some pickled vegetables alongside your southern goulash as well. Their tangy crunch contrasts beautifully with the hearty nature of goulash, enhancing overall enjoyment while providing additional textures in each bite.

Lastly, consider storing leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheating gently on low heat preserves flavors and textures while providing an easy meal option later in the week!

FAQs

What is southern goulash?

Southern goulash is a comforting one-pot meal that typically includes ground meat, tomatoes, pasta, and vegetables seasoned with spices like paprika and garlic powder. It’s popular in Southern cuisine due to its rich flavor profile and ease of preparation.

Can I use different meats in my southern goulash?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage if desired. Each type of meat adds unique flavors and textures to your dish while maintaining its hearty essence.

How long does it take to cook southern goulash?

Cooking southern goulash typically takes about 30 minutes once all ingredients are prepared. Allow additional time if you’re including longer cooking vegetables like carrots or if you prefer slow simmering for richer flavors.

Can I make southern goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! Southern goulash can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for later use—perfect for busy weeknight meals!

What sides pair well with southern goulash?

Great sides include cornbread or garlic bread! These options provide textural contrast while complementing the hearty nature of the main dish effectively—ideal choices for family gatherings or casual dinners alike!

Is there a vegetarian version of southern goulash?

Definitely! You can replace ground meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles along with additional veggies like mushrooms or beans for protein content—this retains all essential flavors while catering to vegetarian diets effectively!

Summary

In summary, making delicious southern goulash involves avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking pasta or using low-quality meat. Incorporate helpful tips like proper browning techniques and garnishes for added flair! Consider pairing it with complementary sides like cornbread and enjoy experimenting with variations tailored specifically to individual tastes—all while ensuring that every bite remains warm and satisfying!

 

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