Satisfying, comforting, and rich! Yes, that’s exactly what comes to my mind as soon as I hear the word goulash. But this goulash recipe is not an ordinary one, folks. It’s Paula Deen Goulash, a warm and savory stew made of meat and veggies.

This recipe can be prepared in just 40 minutes! Yes, it’s that simple, and it’s a one-pot meal that can compete with all your complex gourmet recipes. So, if you are on the lookout for a unique recipe, you must try this one.
I absolutely love the flavor of rich and savory beef combined with crunchy peppers and onions. It is then simmered in a rich tomato sauce to create a unique dish.
However, the secret ingredient I use to turn this dish from normal to can’t-wait-to-have-it is Paula Deen seasoned salt. It adds such depth to the dish that it seems like magic.
Well, don’t you worry about the leftovers, either. I tried storing them in the refrigerator and eating them the next day. You won’t believe it—the taste was magically elevated.
So, friends, if you’re looking for a recipe that is comforting at its finest, then you should definitely try this because it will not only fill your belly but also warm your soul.
Equipment Required
- Saucepan: I use a saucepan to cook everything because it enables me to retain the heat and is perfect for simmering the goulash evenly.
- Wooden Spoon Or Spatula: A wooden spoon or a spatula helps me sauté the veggies.
- Cutting Board And Knife: This is essential to cut the ingredients like onion, garlic, and vegetables properly.
- Measuring Cups And Spoons: Accuracy is the key, so I use measuring cups and spoons to measure the ingredients.
- Colander: I recommend using a sturdy colander to drain the pasta water.
- Ladle: Lastly, I serve the goulash using a ladle to balance the amount of meat, sauce, and pasta.

Paula Deen Goulash Ingredients & Substitutions
Note: The ingredients that I have mentioned below will help you make 10 to 12 servings. However, you are free to adjust the amount of the ingredients according to the number of people you are willing to serve.
- 1 Tablespoon Paula Deen’s House Seasonings: If you don’t find Paula Deen’s house seasoning, simply combine ½ teaspoon salt with ½ teaspoon black pepper and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. This will substitute for the house seasoning.
- 3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce: Tamari, coconut amino, or Worcestershire sauce will also work.
- 3 Bay Leaves
- 2 Tablespoons Italian Seasonings: You can also substitute Italian seasoning with a mixture of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- 2 (15 oz) cans of diced tomatoes: You can also use fresh crushed tomatoes.
- 2 (15 oz) Cans of Tomato Sauce: For a smooth, rich tomato flavor, I use tomato puree, passata, or tomato paste as alternatives to tomato sauce.
- 3 Cups Water
- 3 Cloves Chopped Garlic: Garlic powder or garlic paste can also work.
- 2 Large Chopped Onions
- 2 lbs lean ground beef: This is the main ingredient, but when I run out of ground beef, I use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork.
- 1 Tablespoon Paula Deen Seasoned Salt: Paula Deen’s seasoned salt makes a huge difference in her dishes. If it’s not available, I suggest using a mixture of regular salt, paprika, and garlic powder.
- 2 Cups Uncooked Elbow Macaroni: Rotini, fusilli, penne, or ziti pasta are some of the best alternatives for elbow macaroni.
Preparation And Cooking Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Minutes | 30 Minutes | 40 Minutes |
How To Make Paula Deen Goulash At Home

Step 1
Take a medium-sized saucepan and cook the ground beef in it until it turns brown. Then add chopped onion and garlic to the beef and sauté until they are tender and translucent.

Step 2
Add water to the pot.

Step 3
Now, add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and Paula Dean’s house seasoning.

Step 4
Let it simmer for a while. After that, add the bay leaf and tomato sauce.

Step 5
Now add soy sauce and Paula Dean seasoned salt.

Step 6
Next, add the uncooked macaroni.

Step 7
Let it simmer for 30 minutes until the macaroni is cooked.

Step 8
Your comforting bowl of Paula Deen goulash is ready.
Expert Tips That I Recommend
- I browned the ground beef before adding the other ingredients, as this enhances the flavor of the dish, giving it a deeper and richer taste.
- To elevate the freshness of the dish, I incorporate basil, thyme, and oregano towards the end of the cooking.
- For a vibrant appearance and sweet flavor, I mix red, yellow, and green coloured bell peppers along with the other ingredients.
- I also stir in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar before serving my dish for a creamy and cheesy finish.
- To enhance the umami flavor of the goulash, I add a splash of Worcestershire during the simmering process.
- If you want a rich and sweet tomato flavor, I recommend opting for canned San Marzano tomatoes or fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- I also consider adding some hot sauce and red pepper flakes to infuse a little heat into my dish.
- I add a pinch of sugar to enhance the overall flavor profile of my goulash. It also balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.
FAQs About Paula Deen Goulash
Nutritional Information Per Serving
Paula Deen Goulash is a healthy meal. It is a rich source of protein and not too high in calories or fat.
I have included a breakdown of the nutritional information for this recipe in the table below.
| Calories | 341 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 73 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Saturated fat | 1 g |
| Polyunsaturated fat | 1 g |
| Monounsaturated fat | 1 g |
| Trans fat | 0.02 g |
| Cholesterol | 1 mg |
| Sodium | 5096 mg |
| Potassium | 2667 mg |
| Fiber | 19 g |
| Sugar | 36 g |
| Vitamin A | 2533 IU |
| Vitamin C | 89 mg |
| Calcium | 531 mg |
| Iron | 14 mg |
This recipe is suitable for people on a high-protein diet, as it is high in protein due to the presence of ground beef.

Recipe Variations For Different Diets
- Vegan: To make this recipe completely vegan, I substitute ground beef with a plant-based ground meat from brands like Beyond Meat or lentils for a lighter option. I also use vegan pasta instead of uncooked elbow macaroni.
- Gluten-Free: I substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make a gluten-free version of goulash. I also replace elbow macaroni with gluten-free elbow pasta or pasta made from quinoa or chickpeas.
- Keto-Friendly: To make this goulash recipe suitable for a keto diet, I replace soy sauce with coconut aminos, can diced tomatoes with fresh tomatoes, and tomato sauce with sugar-free tomato paste diluted with water for a similar texture. I also replace regular elbow macaroni with shirataki noodles. You can also use zucchini noodles, as they are a great keto alternative to pasta.
Storing And Reheating This Recipe
Storing
- Refrigerator: Before refrigerating, I allow the goulash to cool down to room temperature. Then, I transfer the dish to an airtight container and place the container in the refrigerator. This way, my goulash stays fresh for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheating
- Stovetop: I prefer reheating Paula Deen’s goulash on the stovetop. First, I place the goulash in a saucepan or a large skillet and add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Then, I cover the pan with a lid to trap the steam. Then, I heat it over a medium-low flame for at least 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it is completely heated.
- Microwave: Microwaving is the quickest and easiest method of heating the goulash. You just have to transfer a portion of the dish to a microwave-safe bowl and add a tablespoon of water to maintain the moisture. Then, cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid, leaving a small space for the steam to escape. Lastly, heat it on medium power for 3 to 5 minutes in one-minute intervals, depending upon the microwave’s power.
- Slow cooker: This method is convenient when you have more time and want to keep the dish warm until it is served. Simply place the goulash in a slow cooker with a bit of water and keep it warm until it is heated thoroughly.
What To Serve With This Recipe
When it comes to serving this delicious goulash, the options are endless. First, I like to pair it with a Simple Caesar or Caprese Salad to give a fresh and crunchy contrast. To make my meal healthier, I also serve it with Roasted Asparagus or Zucchini. It brings a nice earthiness to the entire meal.
As a non-veg option, a side of Buttermilk Fried Chicken or Salisbury Steak works amazingly. Of course, my favorite pairing is a warm loaf of Garlic bread to soak up all the richness of the sauce.
Printable Version
Paula Deen Goulash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoons Paula Deen’s House Seasonings
- 3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
- 3 Bay Leaves
- 2 Tablespoons Italian Seasonings
- 2 15 oz Cans Diced Tomatoes
- 2 15 oz Cans Tomato Sauce
- 3 Cups Water
- 3 Cloves Chopped Garlic
- 2 Large Chopped Onions
- 2 Lbs Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Tablespoon Paula Deen Seasoned Salt
- 2 Cups Uncooked Elbow Macaroni
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Measuring Cups And Spoons
- Colander
- Ladle
Instructions
- Take medium sized saucepan and cook the ground beef in it until it tuns brown. Then add chopped onion and garlic to the beef and saute until they are tender and translucent.
- Add water to the pot.
- Now, add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and Paula Dean’s house seasoning.
- Let it simmer for a while. After that, add the bay leaf and tomato sauce.
- Now add soy sauce and Paula Dean season salt.
- Next at the uncooked macaroni.
- Let it simmer for 30 minutes until the macaroni is cooked.
- Your comforting bowl of Paula Deen goulash is ready.
Notes
- I brown the ground beef before adding the other ingredients, as this enhances the flavour of the dish, giving it a deeper and richer taste.
- To elevate the freshness of the dish, I incorporate basil, thyme, and oregano towards the end of the cooking.
- For a vibrant appearance and sweet flavour, I mix red, yellow and green coloured bell peppers along with the other ingredients.
- I also stir in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar before serving my dish for a creamy and cheesy finish.
- To enhance the umami flavor of the goulash, I add a splash of Worcestershire during the simmering process.
- If you want a rich and sweet tomato flavor, I recommend opting for canned San Marzano tomatoes or fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- I also consider adding some hot sauce and red pepper flakes into infuse a little heat to my dish.
- I add a pinch of sugar to enhance the overall flavor profile of my goulash. It also balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.
Nutrition
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Conclusion
This timeless Paula Deen recipe combines comforting flavors with rich texture. If you follow some of the expert tips and tricks I mentioned above, you can whip up a delicious goulash recipe.
This recipe also calls for a flavourful meal to enjoy with family and friends. Now that you have all the necessary information to make this recipe, go ahead and try it out.








