In the comforting embrace of grandma’s goulash, every spoonful feels like a warm hug. Picture tender beef mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce that dances on your palate. easy comfort food like Sloppy Joes The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and wrapping you in nostalgia.
This dish is more than just food; it’s a time machine to cozy family dinners where stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and everyone leaves with a full belly and a happy heart. cozy fall breakfast options Whether it’s a chilly Sunday evening or a spontaneous weeknight craving for something hearty, grandma’s goulash is here to save the day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful grandma’s goulash recipe is incredibly easy to whip up in under an hour
- Its robust flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in when comfort food calls
When I first made this dish for my friends, the way they devoured it left me grinning from ear to ear. Their “mmms” were music to my ears!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious vegetable rolls as a side.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth; opt for yellow onions for the best results.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that enhances the overall flavor.
Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only add crunch but also brighten up the dish visually.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose diced tomatoes with their juices for added moisture and tanginess.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni works wonders here; it absorbs the sauce beautifully while adding texture.
Beef Broth: Low-sodium beef broth ensures you control the saltiness while enhancing the beefy flavor.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper create a harmonious blend of flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until no pink remains.
Add Onions and Garlic: Toss in finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate Peppers and Seasonings: Mix in diced bell peppers along with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in canned tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so all those flavors can meld beautifully.
Stir in Pasta**: Add elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir well; cover and let it cook according to package instructions until pasta is tender—around 8-10 minutes.
Serve Hot**: Once everything is cooked through, taste for seasoning adjustments. Serve hot with fresh parsley as garnish if desired; enjoy every comforting bite!
Now that you’ve mastered this nostalgic dish of grandma’s goulash, don’t hesitate to experiment! Maybe add some cheese on top or throw in your favorite veggies next time—you do you! herb cheese bread to enjoy with goulash.
You Must Know
- Grandma’s goulash is a one-pot wonder that combines rich flavors with ease
- The aroma of simmering beef and spices will have everyone flocking to the kitchen
- This comfort food masterpiece is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by browning the ground beef, then sauté onions and garlic before adding the tomato sauce and pasta. This sequence ensures each flavor shines through. For more inspiration, check out this beef macaroni soup recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey, or add bell peppers for extra crunch. Customize it based on what your taste buds crave!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat for best results, stirring occasionally.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate grandma’s goulash, always use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor
- Avoid overcooking pasta by adding it at the right time
- Lastly, a splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the dish!
There’s nothing quite like when I made grandma’s goulash for my friends; they devoured it and insisted I host dinner again!
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in grandma’s goulash?
For more inspiration, check out this hearty hamburger potato casserole recipe.
Ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.
How can I thicken grandma’s goulash?
To thicken, let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry while cooking.
Can I make grandma’s goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge to meld those flavors.
Grandma’s Goulash
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Experience the nostalgia of grandma’s goulash with every comforting spoonful. This one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and elbow macaroni in a rich, savory tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this easy recipe delivers robust flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and seasonings (Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper). Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add elbow macaroni to the pot; stir well and cover. Cook according to package instructions until pasta is tender (about 8-10 minutes).
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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