There’s something magical about grandma’s goulash. Picture yourself walking into her kitchen, where the rich aroma of ground beef mingles with tomatoes and spices, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Each bite delivers a comforting wave of nostalgia, reminiscent of countless family dinners where laughter echoed off the walls.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a flavorful hug that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a chilly night or a casual gathering, grandma’s goulash is always the star of the show, promising satisfaction and warmth in every forkful. perfect side dish for goulash. For more inspiration, check out this hamburger potato casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grandma’s goulash is incredibly easy to make, allowing for quick weeknight dinners
- The flavor profile balances savory and slightly sweet notes, making it irresistible
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing for any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt using whatever ingredients you have on hand
I remember the first time I attempted grandma’s goulash; my family devoured it in minutes and begged for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor.
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Onion: Use a medium-sized onion; it adds sweetness when sautéed to perfection.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with aromatic depth.
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Canned Tomatoes: Choose diced tomatoes for their juicy texture and vibrant color.
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Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully.
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Bell Peppers: Any color will do; they add crunch and sweetness to balance flavors.
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Beef Broth: Homemade or store-bought, it deepens the overall taste of your goulash.
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Spices (Paprika, Oregano, Salt, Pepper): These spices create that signature flavor profile we all love.
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Cheddar Cheese (optional): For those who like a cheesy twist at the end!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by preparing your ingredients. Gather all your items and have them within reach—this makes cooking much smoother and more enjoyable.
**Sauté the Aromatics**: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef first. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as you go. Once browned, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.
**Add Veggies**: Next, stir in diced bell peppers until softened slightly. They’ll add both color and crunch to your goulash while infusing that delightful sweetness into the mix. crispy potato pancakes using up your leftovers.
**Incorporate Tomatoes**: Pour in canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and give everything a good stir. Watch as this colorful mixture begins to resemble something divine!
**Add Broth & Pasta**: Pour in beef broth followed by elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine before bringing everything to a gentle simmer. It will bubble away like magic!
**Season Generously**: Add paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper according to taste; let those spices mingle for about 20 minutes on low heat. The smell should be glorious by now!
**Serve & Enjoy**: Once the pasta is al dente and flavors melded beautifully, serve hot! Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese if desired—a melty finish that makes it extra special.
Now you’ve mastered grandma’s goulash! This comforting dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table too—just like it was at mine!
You Must Know
- Grandma’s goulash is a hearty dish, perfect for cozy dinners
- Its rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen
- Don’t forget to serve with crusty bread for an added delightful experience!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef until it’s nice and crispy, then add onions and peppers for flavor. Next, mix in your tomatoes and seasonings while the pasta cooks. This method ensures everything comes together seamlessly, creating a symphony of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or even plant-based alternatives. Adding veggies like zucchini or mushrooms brings extra nutrition and boosts flavor. Experiment with spices like paprika or Italian seasoning to make it uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover goulash in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it on low heat in a saucepan or microwave until bubbling hot, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let your goulash simmer longer than usual; this enhances the taste and melds ingredients beautifully
- Keep an eye on your pasta; overcooking can lead to mushy results
- Lastly, don’t skimp on seasoning; they are key to a flavorful dish!
Cooking grandma’s goulash always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter was plentiful and bowls were never empty. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, making memories over every bite.
FAQ
Can I use different proteins in grandma’s goulash?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even vegetarian options work well for this recipe. unique appetizer option.
What should I serve with grandma’s goulash?
Crusty bread or a simple salad complements this hearty meal perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this cabbage soup recipe recipe.
How long can I keep leftovers of grandma’s goulash?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days without losing quality.

Grandma’s Goulash: A Comforting Family Favorite
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Grandma’s Goulash, a dish that brings the family together with its rich and savory blend of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, delivering a nostalgic taste that warms both the body and soul. With colorful ingredients and a balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, this goulash will quickly become a beloved staple at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in diced bell peppers and cook until softened.
- Pour in canned tomatoes with their juices and stir well.
- Add beef broth and elbow macaroni; mix thoroughly. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper; let simmer for about 20 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added variety, substitute ground turkey or use plant-based alternatives. Incorporate vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.