Irresistible Grandma’s Goulash Recipe: A Family Favorite

There’s something utterly enchanting about the aroma of grandma’s goulash recipe wafting through the house, a warm hug wrapped in savory spices and tender meat. Each bite invites you to a nostalgic journey, reminding you of heartwarming family gatherings and laughter echoing around the dinner table.

Imagine a bustling kitchen, pots clanging, laughter shared over simmering sauce, and the delightful anticipation of a dish that feels like home. Grandma’s goulash isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.

A few years ago, I whipped up grandma’s goulash recipe for a family reunion and watched everyone’s faces light up with delight. It was the culinary equivalent of playing their favorite song.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: About one pound works best; choose lean meat for less grease and more flavor.

• Onion: Use one medium onion; it adds sweetness when sautéed.

• Bell Peppers: Choose colorful peppers for visual appeal and sweetness; I love a mix of red and green.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they bring out that mouthwatering aroma.

• Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work perfectly here; opt for those with basil or garlic for an extra kick.

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni pairs best; it captures all the delicious sauce in each bite.

• Beef Broth: A cup of beef broth will enhance the sauce’s depth—homemade if you have it!

• Spices: Don’t skimp on paprika and Italian seasoning; they add layers of flavor.

• Salt & Pepper: Season to taste; don’t forget to taste as you go!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients first—it makes cooking smoother! Chop your onions, bell peppers, and mince that lovely garlic.

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. Toss in your chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook until they become tender and fragrant, around 5 minutes.

Brown the Meat: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally to break up large chunks—about 7-10 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic along with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until aromatic—just 1-2 minutes should do!

Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) along with beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while stirring well—this should take about 5 minutes.

Mix in Pasta: Add elbow macaroni directly into the skillet. Stir well so that all pasta gets coated in that rich sauce! Cover and let it simmer until pasta is al dente—around 10-12 minutes.

Now that you’ve made grandma’s goulash recipe from scratch, settle down at the table with loved ones or dive into your favorite show while enjoying this comforting dish! You’ve earned every savory bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat, then sauté the vegetables before adding the pasta and sauce for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add more veggies like bell peppers for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.

I remember making grandma’s goulash recipe for my friends once, and they devoured it! They couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so delicious.

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat in grandma’s goulash recipe?

Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.

How can I make grandma’s goulash recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to heat things up.

Is grandma’s goulash recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! It freezes well; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing in airtight containers.

Print

Grandma’s Goulash

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Grandma’s goulash is a nostalgic, comforting dish that fills your home with the enticing aroma of savory spices and tender meat. This easy-to-make recipe combines ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and elbow macaroni in a rich tomato sauce, creating a hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish that not only warms the soul but also brings back cherished memories.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 cup bell peppers (mix of red and green, chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Chop the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers; cook until tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, stirring occasionally (about 7–10 minutes).
4. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning; sauté until aromatic (1–2 minutes).
5. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring well.
6. Add elbow macaroni directly to the skillet; stir to coat with sauce. Cover and simmer until pasta is al dente (10–12 minutes).

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg