Irresistible Grandma’s Goulash Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

There’s something magical about grandma’s goulash that wraps you in a warm hug with every bite. Imagine a steaming pot filled with tender beef, zesty tomatoes, and pasta, all mingling together like old friends at a family reunion. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making your stomach grumble in anticipation of that first spoonful.

Every family gathering is incomplete without this dish, bringing back memories of laughter echoed off kitchen walls and the clinking of forks against bowls. Grandma’s goulash isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners. As you dive into this recipe, get ready to experience flavors that will have your taste buds dancing like nobody’s watching.

I remember one chilly evening when I made grandma’s goulash for my friends—not only did they devour every last bit, but they also begged for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty base without excessive grease; it adds great flavor.

• Onions: Sweet onions provide a nice contrast to the acidity of tomatoes; chop them finely.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best; they infuse the dish with an aromatic depth.

• Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes with their juices to add moisture and flavor.

• Beef Broth: A rich broth enhances the savory elements; choose low-sodium to control saltiness.

• Pasta (Elbow Macaroni): This classic pasta shape holds onto the sauce beautifully; cook it al dente.

• Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; feel free to mix red and green.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs gives the dish its signature flavor; use a generous amount.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top provides a gooey finish—who can resist?

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

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.

Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, ensuring there are no pink spots left.

Add Vegetables and Tomatoes: Stir in diced bell peppers along with canned diced tomatoes (juices included). Let everything mingle for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Pasta Time! : Pour in beef broth and bring everything to a simmer. Then stir in elbow macaroni and let it cook according to package instructions—about 8-10 minutes—until pasta is tender.

Add Seasoning & Cheese : Sprinkle Italian seasoning over your bubbling concoction, mixing well for even distribution. Finally, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey.

Serve Hot : Ladle generous portions into bowls while it’s still steaming hot. Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy!

Now you’re ready to impress at your next dinner gathering! With every bite of grandma’s goulash, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about those heartwarming moments shared around the table—where good food meets great company!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat first to lock in flavor, then add veggies and let them soften. Simultaneously, cook the pasta according to package instructions to ensure everything comes together beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. A sprinkle of cheese on top before serving adds a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Sharing grandma’s goulash with my family always brings smiles and nostalgia; it’s a recipe that unites us around the table.

FAQ

What can I use instead of ground beef in grandma’s goulash?

You can substitute ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

How long does grandma’s goulash last in the fridge?

It typically lasts about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze grandma’s goulash for later?

Yes, it freezes well! Just cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

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Grandma’s Goulash

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Grandma’s goulash is a heartwarming dish that brings family together with its cozy flavors and comforting aroma. This easy-to-make recipe features tender ground beef, zesty diced tomatoes, colorful bell peppers, and elbow macaroni, all simmered to perfection. Ideal for busy weeknights or chilly evenings, every spoonful of this nostalgic classic will remind you of cherished family gatherings. Get ready to serve up smiles and warmth with this delicious goulash!

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with juices
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mix of red and green)
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Sauté onions and garlic in a large pot over medium heat until translucent.
2. Add ground beef; cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in bell peppers and diced tomatoes; heat through for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth, bring to a simmer, then add elbow macaroni. Cook until pasta is tender (8-10 minutes).
5. Mix in Italian seasoning and shredded cheddar until melted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 65mg