Paula Deen’s Goulash is the epitome of Southern comfort food, blending rich flavors with simple preparation. This dish combines tender pasta, savory beef, and a tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic Italian seasonings. The result is a hearty meal perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. What makes this recipe a winner is its versatility. Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something warm, filling, and full of flavor. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread to make it even more satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds lean ground beef
- 2 large yellow onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 3 cups water
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon House Seasoning (recipe below)
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
House Seasoning:
- 1 cup salt
- 1/4 cup pepper
- 1/4 cup garlic powder
Directions:
- Cook the Beef: In a large Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Crumble the meat as it cooks and drain excess grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onions and garlic to the beef and cook for 5 minutes until tender.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in the water, then stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, soy sauce, House Seasoning, and seasoned salt. Mix well.
- Add Pasta: Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish: Remove the pot from heat, discard bay leaves, and let cool for 30 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 8
A Delicious Dive Into Paula Deen’s Southern Goulash
Few dishes can rival the warmth and heartiness of Paula Deen’s Southern Goulash. This beloved recipe combines the simplicity of a one-pot meal with the robust flavors of Italian-inspired seasonings, resulting in a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing option for family gatherings, this goulash is an excellent choice. Packed with savory ingredients and an irresistible aroma, it promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
The History Behind Goulash
Goulash has its origins in Hungary, where it was traditionally prepared as a stew or soup. Over the centuries, the dish has evolved and been adopted by various cultures, each adding their unique twist. In the United States, goulash became a popular comfort food, especially in the South, where it took on its distinctive characteristics. Paula Deen’s version of this classic reflects her Southern roots, with a touch of hospitality and homey simplicity that makes it stand out.
What Sets Paula Deen’s Goulash Apart?
Paula Deen’s take on goulash is a beautiful fusion of Southern and Italian flavors. It’s a dish that reflects her philosophy of cooking: hearty, flavorful, and uncomplicated. Using lean ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this goulash brings together ingredients that are pantry staples in most households. The addition of Italian seasonings and her signature House Seasoning elevates the dish, creating layers of flavor that tantalize the taste buds.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility. It’s designed to be a forgiving dish that you can adapt based on what you have on hand. Whether you swap out the ground beef for turkey, add a handful of your favorite vegetables, or experiment with different pasta shapes, the dish retains its comforting essence.
Perfect for Busy Lives
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare home-cooked meals can be a challenge. That’s where one-pot meals like this goulash come in handy. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also minimizes cleanup, making it an excellent choice for busy families. The beauty of Paula Deen’s goulash lies in its simplicity once the ingredients are combined in the pot, you can let it simmer while you attend to other tasks. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is an added bonus, building anticipation for the meal ahead.
Why Families Love It
One of the reasons Paula Deen’s goulash is so well-loved is because of its universal appeal. Children adore the comforting combination of pasta and ground beef, while adults appreciate the depth of flavor brought by the seasonings. It’s a dish that feels nostalgic, evoking memories of family dinners and cherished moments around the table.
Moreover, this recipe is budget-friendly, using accessible ingredients that are easy to source. It’s an excellent option for feeding a large group without breaking the bank, and the leftovers reheat beautifully, making it an economical and practical choice for meal planning.
A Dish with Seasonal Adaptability
While Paula Deen’s goulash is a year-round favorite, it truly shines during the colder months when comfort food takes center stage. The hearty combination of beef, pasta, and a tomato-rich sauce is perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. However, this dish isn’t limited to winter; its bold flavors and satisfying nature make it a great option for summer potlucks, where it can be served alongside a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables.
Healthier Twists to Try
For those who are health-conscious, this recipe can easily be modified without sacrificing flavor. Consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences. Incorporating more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms, adds nutrients and a delightful crunch. Opting for low-sodium tomato sauce and soy sauce can also help reduce the overall sodium content, making it a healthier choice for those watching their intake.
Serving Suggestions
Paula Deen’s goulash is a meal in itself, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the goulash. Alternatively, a slice of warm, crusty bread or a fluffy dinner roll is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. For a touch of indulgence, serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of roasted garlic green beans.
The Heart of Southern Hospitality
One of the reasons Paula Deen’s recipes resonate so deeply is their connection to Southern hospitality. This goulash embodies the idea of bringing people together over a shared meal. Its warmth, flavor, and simplicity make it an excellent choice for any occasion, whether you’re feeding your immediate family or hosting a group of friends. It’s the kind of dish that encourages second helpings and lingering conversations around the dinner table.
A Culinary Tradition Worth Sharing
Paula Deen’s Southern Goulash is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary tradition that celebrates the joys of home cooking. Its roots in Southern cuisine and its adaptability to modern preferences make it a timeless favorite. By sharing this dish with loved ones, you’re not just serving a meal; you’re creating memories and continuing a tradition that has brought comfort and joy to countless households.
Conclusion:
In a world where convenience often takes precedence over quality, Paula Deen’s Southern Goulash stands out as a reminder of the beauty of homemade meals. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and universally loved. Whether you’re introducing it to your family for the first time or revisiting it as a cherished favorite, this goulash is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Serve it with love, and enjoy the smiles and compliments that follow.