Paula Deen’s Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish that’s rich in flavors and perfect for feeding a crowd. This Southern twist on American goulash is made with ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 large onions, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups water
- 1 (29-oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 (15-oz) cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onions and garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent. - Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Stir in the water, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Add the Italian seasoning, soy sauce, seasoned salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to combine. - Simmer the Sauce
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. - Cook the Pasta
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot again and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender. - Serve and Enjoy
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired.
Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef (like 80/20) minimizes excess grease while keeping the dish flavorful.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stir the pasta regularly while cooking to ensure it absorbs the sauce evenly without becoming mushy.
- Enhance the Flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of sugar can deepen the sauce’s flavor.
- Make It Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the goulash before serving for a creamy touch.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.
- Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for the ground beef.
- Spicy Goulash: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the goulash on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
This Paula Deen-inspired goulash recipe is a nostalgic and easy meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served with crusty bread or a side salad, it’s comfort food at its best!
Comforting Paula Deen’s Goulash
Paula Deen’s Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish that’s rich in flavors and perfect for feeding a crowd
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 large onions diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups water
- 1 29-oz can tomato sauce
- 2 15-oz cans diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups elbow macaroni uncooked
Instructions
- Cook the Beef and Onions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onions and garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the Liquids and Seasonings
- Stir in the water, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Add the Italian seasoning, soy sauce, seasoned salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook the Pasta
- Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover the pot again and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired.