Try this Paula Deen Goulash Recipe, also known as American Goulash. It is the best way to feed a hungry family on a budget.

Everyone loves a warm recipe full of noodles, meat, and savory tomato sauce. This Paula Deen Goulash Recipe is very easy.

You do not need to be a professional chef to get it right. Follow these simple steps for a perfect family meal today.

Learning how to make Paula Deen Goulash is fun. Your family will love the rich beefy flavor and soft pasta.

The texture is thick, saucy, and very satisfying. This Paula Deen Goulash Recipe uses simple items from your pantry. It is truly a foolproof dinner for everyone.

When I first introduced to Paula Deen Goulash

I love watching Paula Deen cook her famous Southern comfort meals in her big kitchen. She makes every dish look so delicious and very simple to prepare.

One afternoon, I saw her mix this giant pot of beef and macaroni. It looked so colorful and smelled amazing with fresh onions and garlic.

I wanted to try it for a busy Tuesday night dinner. My first try was a huge success. My kids finished their whole bowls and asked for seconds immediately.

Now, I make it for every chilly autumn evening. The smell of simmering tomatoes makes my house feel cozy.

You will love how savory it tastes. It is the best meal for a busy family.

Equipment List

One large Dutch oven or heavy pot.
A large wooden spoon for stirring.
A sharp knife for dicing.
A cutting board.
Measuring cups and spoons.

Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Goulash

Here are the ingredients for Paula Deen Goulash:

2 pounds of lean ground beef.
2 large yellow onions, chopped.
3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced.
3 cups of water.
2 cans (15 ounces each) of tomato sauce.
2 cans (14.5 ounces each) of diced tomatoes.
2 tablespoons of soy sauce.
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning.
3 dried bay leaves.
1 tablespoon of seasoned salt.
2 cups of elbow macaroni, uncooked.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Brown the Beef

Place the ground beef in your large pot over medium-high heat. Cook until it is no longer pink.

2. Sauté the Onions

Add the chopped onions to the meat. Cook them for five minutes until they are soft and clear.

3. Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic. Cook for one minute until you smell the savory aroma.

4. Pour the Liquids

Add the water, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together well.

5. Season the Pot

Add the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and bay leaves.

6. Simmer the Sauce

Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let the sauce simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to blend flavors.

7. Add the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook for 15 more minutes until the pasta is soft.

8. Rest and Serve

Turn off the heat and remove the bay leaves. Let the goulash sit for ten minutes before scooping.

Tips to Make the Best Paula Deen Goulash

Drain the fat. Make sure to pour off the extra grease after browning the beef for a cleaner taste.
Don’t overcook pasta. Check the noodles often so they stay firm and do not get too mushy.
Use lean beef. Using 90% lean ground beef keeps the sauce from getting too oily.

Add extra spice. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice Southern kick to the tomatoes.
Let it rest. The goulash gets much thicker and better if you let it sit after cooking.
Use fresh onions. The sweetness of sautéed onions is the secret to a great savory sauce.

FAQs about Paula Deen Goulash

Can I use different pasta?

Yes, penne or rotini works well, but elbow macaroni is the classic choice.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep it in a closed container in the fridge for up to four days.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes very well for one month in a sealed bag or box.

Why is it called goulash?

This is the American version, which is more like a pasta bake than the Hungarian soup.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, adding chopped green bell peppers or corn tastes wonderful in the mix.

Final Thoughts

This Paula Deen Goulash Recipe is a winner. It is savory, filling, and very easy to make. You now know how to make Paula Deen Goulash at home.

It is the perfect meal for a big gathering or a cozy night in. Your family will love this special Southern treat.

The combination of beef and tomatoes is perfect. Making a one-pot meal is a great way to save time on cleaning.

Just follow the steps and enjoy your dinner. Happy eating to you and your sweet family!