Description
Hearty Southern goulash brings comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen, blending rich ground beef with tender macaroni in a savory tomato sauce. Warm memories and classic flavors invite you to savor this timeless family favorite that feels like a loving embrace.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (lb) ground beef
- 1 pound (lb) ground turkey (alternative option)
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 (15 ounces) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounces) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water (alternative)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a spacious pot, thoroughly brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, diligently breaking apart the meat to guarantee uniform cooking. Eliminate any accumulated grease to prevent excessive oiliness.
- Introduce chopped onions and bell peppers into the pot, sautéing until they transform into a translucent, aromatic medley that harmonizes with the browned meat.
- Generously season the mixture with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, complemented by a whisper of cayenne to awaken the palate with a subtle Southern zest.
- Stream tomato sauce and diced tomatoes into the pot, stirring methodically to create a rich, cohesive sauce. Allow the concoction to gently simmer, enabling the flavors to intertwine and deepen.
- Carefully fold in the elbow macaroni, ensuring each pasta piece becomes luxuriously coated in the savory sauce. Cover and let the goulash simmer, allowing the pasta to absorb the robust flavors and reach perfect tenderness.
- For those seeking an indulgent finale, crown the goulash with a lavish sprinkle of shredded cheese, creating a molten, creamy layer that elevates the dish’s rustic charm.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter version of the dish.
- Experiment with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier protein option.
- Maximize flavor by using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more vibrant taste profile.
- Enhance nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach to boost the veggie content.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg