The aroma of grandma’s goulash wafts through the air, instantly whisking me back to my childhood kitchen. Picture a bubbling pot of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy macaroni swimming in a savory sauce that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Every stirring of that pot brought with it laughter and stories, reminding me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, eagerly anticipating their bowls filled to the brim with comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavors create a cozy atmosphere that everyone will love
- The colorful ingredients make for an eye-catching presentation on any dinner table
- Whether for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is a versatile crowd-pleaser
I’ll never forget the time I made grandma’s goulash for my friends, who polished off every last drop and begged for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without compromising taste; it keeps the goulash rich and hearty.
Elbow Macaroni: This classic pasta shape holds onto the sauce perfectly; feel free to substitute with whole wheat for a healthier twist.
Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Bell Peppers: Use red and green peppers for color and crunch; they add freshness and a slight sweetness to balance the dish.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work wonders here; choose ones with herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while ensuring depth in flavor; it’s essential for creating that luscious sauce.
Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning; it infuses warmth and enhances the savory notes without overpowering other flavors.
Paprika: I love using smoked paprika here; it adds depth and a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish.
Sour Cream: Stirred in at the end, it gives creaminess and tanginess that ties everything together beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Simple yet essential; adjust these according to your taste as you layer flavors throughout cooking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Before diving into cooking, chop your onions and peppers, measure out spices, and have everything ready. This makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink while breaking it apart with a spatula. The aroma will be inviting.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pot with beef. Sauté until onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes; their sweetness will complement the meat wonderfully.
Add Tomatoes & Seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes along with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes so flavors meld together beautifully.
Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but don’t rinse—this keeps them saucy!
Mix Everything Together: Combine cooked macaroni into the beef mixture along with beef broth. Stir gently until everything is well-coated and heated through. Remove from heat before adding sour cream—just fold it in slowly!
Now that you’ve crafted grandmas’ goulash masterpiece, serve yourself a generous bowl! Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for an irresistible meal. Enjoy each bite as laughter fills your home just like those cherished days gone by!
You Must Know
- Grandma’s goulash is a cozy dish that brings warmth and nostalgia
- The blend of spices, meat, and pasta creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the house
- This hearty meal is perfect for any family gathering or cold evening when comfort food is needed
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef first, then add onions and bell peppers for extra flavor before incorporating the tomatoes and pasta.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the beef for turkey or even go vegetarian with lentils. Mix in your favorite spices or veggies to make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, let the goulash simmer longer
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor profile significantly
Cooking grandma’s goulash always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingled with delicious aromas from the kitchen.
FAQ
What is grandma’s goulash made of?
Grandma’s goulash typically includes ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and various spices.
Can I make grandma’s goulash ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.
How do I thicken my grandma’s goulash?
Add a cornstarch slurry or let it simmer longer to reach your desired thickness.
Grandma’s Goulash
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Grandma’s goulash is a comforting one-pot dish that embodies nostalgia and warmth. This hearty meal features tender ground beef, colorful bell peppers, creamy elbow macaroni, and a savory tomato sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or potlucks. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home, bringing everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping onions and peppers.
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in diced tomatoes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and add beef broth; stir until heated through.
- Remove from heat and fold in sour cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
