Delicious Grandma’s Goulash: Comfort in Every Bite

The aroma of grandma’s goulash wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm hug. Picture tender beef mingling with vibrant veggies, all swimming in a savory sauce that sings with flavor.

As you take a bite, memories flood back—family dinners filled with laughter and stories. This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served on a plate, perfect for chilly nights or any gathering that calls for comfort.

Ingredients for grandma’s goulash

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

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even cooking.

• Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for a vibrant look; they also add crunch and flavor.

• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are perfect; they bring moisture and acidity to balance the richness of the meat.

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best here; it soaks up the sauce beautifully.

• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.

• Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhances the overall taste.

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

How to Make grandma’s goulash

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook them alongside the meat until softened—about five minutes—stirring occasionally so nothing sticks.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let those flavors mingle together for about two minutes while stirring continuously.

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add elbow macaroni directly into the mixture. Reduce heat to low and cover; let it simmer until pasta is tender—this usually takes about ten minutes.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

Once everything is cooked through and creamy goodness fills your skillet, give it a good stir. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese on top for that extra touch! Transfer to plates and enjoy your bowl of hearty grandma’s goulash!

This dish embodies comfort food at its finest—it’s where nostalgia meets culinary delight!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot, then sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the peppers and tomatoes before mixing in the pasta for a seamless cooking experience. Finish by letting it simmer to meld those delicious flavors together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even plant-based protein. Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and spice it up with hot sauce or your favorite herbs to make grandma’s goulash uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it from drying out.

Sometimes when I make grandma’s goulash, my friends drop by unexpectedly, drawn by that irresistible aroma wafting through my kitchen. Their delight is always priceless when they dig into that first hearty bite!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for grandma’s goulash?

To make grandma’s goulash, you will need ground beef, onions, bell peppers, garlic, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, elbow macaroni, and a mix of spices. Common spices include paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also add cheese for extra flavor. This simple recipe uses everyday ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. The combination of these ingredients creates a comforting meal that is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

How long does it take to cook grandma’s goulash?

Cooking grandma’s goulash typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. First, brown the ground beef along with the onions and garlic in a large pot. Then, add the remaining ingredients and let everything simmer together for around 20 minutes. The elbow macaroni cooks quickly, usually within 8 to 10 minutes. This makes it an easy and quick meal option when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.

Can I make grandma’s goulash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare grandma’s goulash ahead of time! It stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Simply cook it as directed and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warm. You can also freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with grandma’s goulash?

Grandma’s goulash pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the sauce. A simple green salad adds freshness and balances the hearty dish. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These options enhance your meal while keeping it wholesome and satisfying.

Conclusion for grandma’s goulash:

In summary, grandma’s goulash is a delightful dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and flavorful spices into one hearty meal. It is simple to prepare and perfect for feeding families or groups with its generous portions. The versatility allows for ingredient swaps based on personal preference or dietary needs. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated as leftovers, this comforting recipe remains a cherished staple in many households. Try making this delicious dish today to experience its warm flavors!

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Grandma’s Goulash

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Grandma’s goulash is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender ground beef, colorful vegetables, and hearty elbow macaroni simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This nostalgic dish is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, delivering warmth and flavor with minimal effort. Easy to prepare and packed with deliciousness, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for an unforgettable cozy dinner experience.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked; drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil; add elbow macaroni directly into the mixture.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.
6. Stir well before serving hot with crusty bread or cheese on top.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based protein for a healthier option. Add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For added spice, incorporate hot sauce or red pepper flakes.