There’s something about grandma’s goulash that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug, even on the chilliest of days. Imagine a bubbling pot filled with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a delightful medley of spices wafting through your kitchen, making your mouth water before you even take your first bite. zucchini carbonara with prosciutto The aroma alone is enough to transport you to Grandma’s kitchen, where laughter and love are as abundant as the ingredients in this wholesome dish.
Grandma’s goulash isn’t just food; it’s a celebration of family, memories, and the sheer joy of eating together. Whether it’s a rainy day or a cozy family gathering, this dish brings everyone to the table, igniting stories and laughter that linger long after the last bite. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will have you reminiscing about your childhood while savoring every spoonful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting goulash is simple enough for beginner cooks yet bursting with flavor that even seasoned chefs will appreciate
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on personal tastes or pantry staples available
- Plus, it makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day!
I still remember my cousin’s eyes lighting up when I brought over grandma’s goulash for our family reunion. It was like I had unveiled a treasure!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Hamburger Potato Casserole recipe.
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Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds onto all the delicious sauce and flavors perfectly.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; don’t skip it!
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic goodness.
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Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for juiciness; they bring balance to the rich flavors.
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Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing savory notes.
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Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; use any color you prefer!
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs gives this dish its familiar Italian flair; feel free to adjust based on preference. herb cheese quick bread.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shredded on top right before serving, it adds creaminess and indulgence.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. nostalgic Sloppy Joe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and bell peppers into small pieces. Mince garlic until fragrant. Gather all ingredients so you’re ready to cook!
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until translucent. cheesy baked vegetable rolls Toss in bell peppers and garlic until everything is tender and aromatic.
Add Ground Beef: Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon until browned completely. Drain excess fat if necessary—nobody wants greasy goulash!
Mix in Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to meld those flavors together.
Add Pasta**: Stir in elbow macaroni and cover the pot. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until pasta is al dente—don’t forget to stir occasionally!
Add Cheese**: Finally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over goulash just before serving. Cover again until melted into gooey perfection.
Now grab your favorite bowl, serve up a giant helping of grandma’s goulash, sit back, relax, and relish every spoonful of nostalgia!
You Must Know
- Grandma’s goulash isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- The rich flavors and comforting aroma make it a family favorite perfect for chilly nights
- With a few tweaks, this dish can cater to your taste buds while holding onto that nostalgic charm
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning ground beef for optimal flavor, then add onions and bell peppers before tossing in tomatoes and pasta for a cohesive meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor complexity.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve grandma-approved goulash, always taste and adjust seasoning as you go
- This ensures a perfectly seasoned dish
- Remember, overcooking pasta can lead to mushiness; aim for al dente
- Lastly, let it rest before serving to enhance flavors!
When I first made grandma’s goulash, my friends devoured it so fast I thought they were competing in an eating contest!
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in grandma’s goulash?
Ground turkey or lentils are excellent alternatives that maintain flavor without compromising texture.
Can I make grandma’s goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together beautifully.
How do I thicken my grandma’s goulash if it’s too watery?
Add a cornstarch slurry or extra pasta to absorb excess liquid while enhancing texture.
Grandma’s Goulash
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the warmth of Grandma’s goulash, a comforting one-pot meal that combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a vibrant medley of vegetables. This nostalgic dish evokes cherished family memories and is perfect for cozy gatherings. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it brings everyone to the table for hearty conversations and laughter. With customizable ingredients and delightful leftovers, this goulash is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup bell peppers (chopped, any color)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping onions and bell peppers; mince garlic.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add bell peppers and garlic; cook until tender.
- Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in elbow macaroni, cover pot, and cook for 8–10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top just before serving; cover again until melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or lentils. Enhance the dish by adding veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.
