Paula Deen’s Goulash

Paula Deen’s Goulash is the ultimate comfort food to feed a large crowd. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef with flavorful seasonings and pasta, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Its simplicity and rich taste are sure to impress everyone at your table, making it a go-to recipe for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious goulash in no time.
• Flavorful Meal: The combination of spices and tomatoes creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your goulash by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy less cleanup with this all-in-one meal cooked in a single pot.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Paula Deen’s Goulash, having the right tools can help streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot is ideal for browning meat and simmering the goulash evenly.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping onions and garlic quickly and safely.
• Stirring spoon: A sturdy spoon is necessary to mix all ingredients thoroughly without damaging the pot.

Ingredients

Paula Deen’s Goulash is loaded with flavor and made with simple ingredients.

For the Meat Base

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic

For the Sauce

• 3 cups water
• 2 cans tomato sauce (15 oz.)
• 2 diced tomatoes (15 oz.)
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

For Seasoning and Pasta

• 1 tablespoon House Seasoning (recipe follows)
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1/4 cup pepper
• 1/4 cup garlic powder

How to Make Paula Deen’s Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a Dutch oven, saute ground beef over medium-high heat until it browns. Break up the meat as you cook it. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add garlic and onions to the pot and cook for 5 minutes or until tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour 3 cups of water into the pot. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, bay leaves, Italian seasoning, House seasoning, seasoned salt, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Incorporate Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni and mix in until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot once again with the lid and let it simmer over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and take out the bay leaves. Let the goulash cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy this delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table!

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Goulash

Serving Paula Deen’s Goulash can elevate your meal experience, transforming a simple dish into an impressive feast. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting favorite.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the dish.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Offer shredded cheddar cheese on the side for guests to sprinkle over their goulash.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for a savory enhancement that pairs well with the flavors.

Served with Bread

• Crusty French Bread: Provide slices of crusty French bread for dipping into the goulash.
• Garlic Bread: Serve buttery garlic bread to add a delicious crunch and flavor contrast.

As a One-Pot Meal

• Salad on the Side: Pair with a light garden salad for a refreshing balance that complements the hearty goulash.

How to Perfect Paula Deen’s Goulash

To ensure your Paula Deen’s Goulash turns out perfectly, follow these simple tips for the best results.

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and enhance the dish’s overall texture.
• Simmer Gently: Allow the goulash to simmer on low heat, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully while keeping the macaroni tender.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste before serving; feel free to add more Italian seasoning or salt according to your preference.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor depth.

Best Side Dishes for Paula Deen’s Goulash

Complementing Paula Deen’s Goulash with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Steamed green beans sautéed in garlic provide a fresh, crispy element.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that balances the richness of goulash.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your goulash.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with this comfort dish.
5. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, enhancing your dining experience.
6. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes as a hearty side that can be topped with sour cream or chives, complementing the flavors of goulash.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking goulash can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Avoid these pitfalls for a perfect Paula Deen’s Goulash.

• Bold Flavoring: Skipping on spices or seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to use the right amount of Italian seasoning and soy sauce for rich flavors.
• Incorrect Cooking Time: Overcooking or undercooking the macaroni can ruin the texture. Ensure you follow the simmering time closely for the best results.
• Neglecting Grease Removal: Not draining excess grease from the ground beef can make your goulash greasy. Always drain after browning the meat.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes or sauces can impact the taste. Opt for high-quality brands for better flavor in your goulash.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions add depth to your goulash. Don’t substitute with dried versions if you want that fresh taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Paula Deen’s Goulash in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Paula Deen’s Goulash

• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Paula Deen’s Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place goulash in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Paula Deen’s Goulash.

What is Paula Deen’s Goulash?

Paula Deen’s Goulash is a hearty one-pot meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and seasonings that create a comforting dish perfect for any gathering.

Can I add vegetables to Paula Deen’s Goulash?

Yes! You can customize it by adding bell peppers, peas, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make Paula Deen’s Goulash gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.

What sides pair well with Paula Deen’s Goulash?

Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Paula Deen’s Goulash is not just delicious; it’s versatile and easy to customize according to your preferences. Whether you want extra veggies or prefer a spicier kick, this recipe adapts well. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting meal!