The Perfect Winter Weeknight Meal - Turkey Sausage Goulash

This easy turkey sausage goulash is the ultimate cold weather comfort food. Bite size pieces of turkey sausage and vegetables are simmered in a rich and creamy tomato sauce infused with paprika. Served over egg noodles, rice or mashed potatoes, it's a hearty one-pot meal that comes together quickly on busy weeknights. Endlessly adaptable to what you have on hand, this goulash recipe will become a regular in your winter dinner rotation. Let's get cozy with turkey goulash!

Choose the Main Ingredients

For the base, you'll need:

- 1 lb ground turkey or turkey sausage

- Onion, celery, carrots, garlic

- Diced tomatoes, tomato sauce/paste

- Broth or water

Make it Your Own

Add any veggies you like such as bell peppers, mushrooms, peas etc. Get creative!

Sauté the Aromatic Veggies

Chop onion, celery, carrots and garlic. Sauté in olive oil over medium heat until softened. This builds a flavor base.

Don't Rush It

Cooking the vegetables thoroughly will add sweetness to balance the tomatoes.

Brown the Turkey and Deglaze

Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon. Once browned, deglaze the pan with a bit of broth to pull up browned bits.

Look for Fond

The tasty browned bits on the pan bottom add deep savory flavor to the goulash.

Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce or paste until well incorporated. Add broth and seasonings like paprika, oregano, etc. Simmer 20-30 minutes to meld flavors.

Paprika Perfection

Paprika adds a wonderful earthy, slightly smoky flavor that's perfect in goulash.

Finish with Fresh Herbs

Just before serving, stir in some chopped fresh parsley and dill. This adds brightness and fresh herbal notes.

A Sour Cream Swirl

Mixing in a spoonful of sour cream adds even more richness and tang.

Serve Over Buttered Noodles or Rice

Spoon the savory turkey sausage goulash over cooked egg noodles, rice, mashed potatoes or pasta. Comfort in a bowl!

Top Tips

- Use tomato sauce and paste for richness

- Simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken

- Add fresh soft herbs at the end

- Garnish bowls with sour cream

- Ladle over egg noodles, rice or mashed potatoes

FAQs

What kind of sausage works best?

Mild chicken or turkey sausage lets the other flavors shine.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce?

Yes, substitute an equal amount of your favorite tomato-based pasta sauce.

Do I need to use paprika?

No, but it adds wonderful flavor.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store cooked goulash in the fridge up to 5 days.

What veggies work well in goulash?

Onions, carrots, celery, bell peppers, peas, beans, etc. Choose your faves!

In Summary

This easy turkey sausage goulash comes together with just a handful of ingredients. Customize with spices and vegetables you love for a hearty meal everyone will enjoy. The leftovers only get better too!