Grandma’s Goulash

Posted on May 8, 2025

There’s something magical about the aroma of Grandma’s Goulash wafting through the house. Picture this: a bubbling pot filled with tender beef, vibrant peppers, and a rich, savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. rich Pomodoro sauce Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug and whispers sweet nothings to your soul. For more inspiration, check out this Corned Beef and Cabbage recipe recipe.

Now imagine gathering around the table with family, laughter filling the air as everyone digs into their bowls. This goulash isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. Trust me; every spoonful is an invitation to relive those cherished moments.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This hearty Grandma’s Goulash is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
  • Its comforting flavors create a sense of home that everyone will love
  • The vibrant colors and rich aroma will make it the star of any dinner table
  • Versatile enough to adapt to your pantry staples, this dish never disappoints

My friends still rave about the time I made Grandma’s Goulash for our game night; they practically inhaled it! For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Spaghetti recipe.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. healthy ground chicken meatloaf.
  • Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even cooking.
  • Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red and green for color and crunch; they brighten up the dish beautifully.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Opt for canned tomatoes with herbs added for extra flavor; look for BPA-free cans.
  • Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice here! Cook it al dente for the best texture.
  • Beef Broth: Homemade or store-bought, beef broth enhances the savory goodness of goulash.
  • Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder): Add these spices to elevate flavors; smoked paprika can give it an extra kick!
  • Sour Cream: A dollop on top at serving adds creaminess and tang that complements all the flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by pulling together all your ingredients on the counter. It makes cooking smoother when everything is within reach.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. tasty olive oil bread dip.

Add Ground Beef and Spices: Toss in the ground beef along with paprika and garlic powder. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as you stir; it should smell divine!

Mix in Vegetables and Tomatoes: Add diced bell peppers and canned tomatoes. Stir well to combine everything before pouring in beef broth—let those flavors mingle!

Cook the Pasta Separately: Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but don’t rinse—keep that starch!

Combine Everything Together: Once your pasta’s ready, gently fold it into the goulash mixture on low heat; let everything simmer together for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Enjoying Grandma’s Goulash doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart with warmth! Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe creates memories one delicious bite at a time. delicious Irish Pub Burgers.

You Must Know

  • Grandma’s Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with flavor and nostalgia
  • This dish warms your soul while filling your belly, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
  • With a blend of spices and hearty ingredients, every bite tells a story

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat first to enhance its flavor, then sauté the vegetables before adding pasta and sauce. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to switch up the ground beef with turkey or veggie crumbles for a lighter take. Adding cheese on top before serving can elevate that comfort factor to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover goulash in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To create Grandma’s Goulash with ease, remember to chop veggies uniformly for even cooking
  • Season generously throughout the cooking process; this builds depth of flavor
  • Don’t forget to taste as you go; adjustments are key to perfection!

Cooking this goulash always reminds me of my childhood kitchen filled with laughter and my grandma’s delicious aroma wafting through the air. Each bowl served was like a hug from her.

FAQs

FAQ

What ingredients are essential for Grandma’s Goulash?

Ground beef, elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers are must-haves.

Can I make Grandma’s Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after flavors meld together.

How can I make Grandma’s Goulash spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for that extra kick in flavor.

Print

Grandma’s Goulash

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Grandma’s Goulash is a heartwarming dish that brings family together with its rich flavors and comforting aroma. Featuring tender ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and elbow macaroni enveloped in a savory tomato sauce, this goulash is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, each bowl serves up nostalgia and warmth, making it an instant classic that everyone will love.

  • Author: Gordon Calloway
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with herbs
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Sour cream for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add the ground beef along with paprika and garlic powder; cook until browned.
  3. Mix in the diced bell peppers and canned tomatoes, stirring to combine.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and let simmer.
  5. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
  6. Fold the cooked pasta into the goulash mixture over low heat for 5–10 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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