Southern-Style Goulash Recipe | Hearty, Cheesy & Classic Comfort Food
Southern-Style Goulash is a beloved one-pot comfort dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato base, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s budget-friendly, incredibly filling, and packed with bold, savory flavors that the whole family will love.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a satisfying dish for a cozy Sunday meal, this Southern Goulash recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to prepare this delicious, classic American goulash with a Southern twist:
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1 pound ground beef
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1 large onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
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2 teaspoons paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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2 cups beef broth
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook 1 pound ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Add Aromatics & Veggies
Add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet with the beef.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the Tomato Base
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), and beef broth.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Seasonings & Pasta
Add the uncooked elbow macaroni, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to the pot.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the goulash simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The pasta should be cooked through, and the sauce should be rich and flavorful.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once the pasta is tender, remove the pot from heat.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the pot again and let it sit for 3–5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into the goulash.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot and enjoy your bowl of cheesy, beefy Southern comfort!
Serving Suggestions
Southern Goulash is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
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Cornbread or garlic toast
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Simple green salad
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Steamed green beans or collard greens
Storage & Reheating Tips
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Warm in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Helpful Tips for Success
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Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor.
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For a creamier version, stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream before serving.
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Substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer leaner meat.
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Add corn or beans for extra bulk and Southern flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between American and Hungarian goulash?
American (or Southern-style) goulash is a tomato-based pasta dish with ground beef, while Hungarian goulash is a paprika-rich beef stew with chunks of meat and potatoes.
❓ Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything (except pasta and cheese) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in pasta during the last 30 minutes and cheese just before serving.
❓ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Rotini, penne, or shells also work great—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Southern-Style Goulash is a timeless comfort food classic, loaded with bold spices, cheesy goodness, and satisfying textures. It’s affordable, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser—ideal for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment, rate it below, and share your favorite goulash variation!