Southern Old Fashioned Goulash

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Mix in the paprika, Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5–7 minutes so the spices can bloom and meld with the tomatoes.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Liquid

Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni and beef broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will cook while soaking up the savory flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese (Optional but Delicious)

Once the pasta is tender, remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. This step isn’t always traditional but gives the goulash a Southern-style, indulgent twist.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the goulash into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve warm, ideally with cornbread or a side salad.

Tips for the Perfect Goulash

• Make it heartier: Add bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Spice it up: A pinch of cayenne or hot sauce can turn up the Southern heat.
• Meal prep friendly: Goulash reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Freezer option: Store cooled goulash in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Why This Dish Is Timeless

Southern Old-Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a reminder of simpler times. It embodies comfort, warmth, and the resourcefulness of turning pantry staples into a feast. Each spoonful delivers a blend of tender pasta, meaty richness, and tangy-sweet tomato sauce that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Whether you’re serving it to your family on a busy weeknight or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this dish is sure to win hearts and satisfy appetites.

✨ In short: Southern Old-Fashioned Goulash is a one-pot classic that’s easy, affordable, and bursting with flavor. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it has stood the test of time as one of the South’s most beloved comfort foods.

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