Grandma’s goulash fills the kitchen with a warm, savory aroma that beckons you to the table. Each bite reveals a delightful mix of tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it an instant comfort food favorite. quick meatball pasta bake.
This dish is not just food; it’s a memory-maker. Picture cozy family gatherings where laughter mixes with the scent of spices simmering on the stove. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or any time you need a hug in a bowl.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grandma’s goulash is simple to make, ensuring even novice cooks can create this delicious meal
- The flavor profile combines savory beef and tangy tomatoes for an irresistible taste
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for family dinners
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your pantry staples or dietary needs
I remember my cousin declaring this dish was “better than a hug” after polishing off two bowls at our last family reunion.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease and more flavorful bites. hearty chili con carne.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for the best flavor. sweet and sour chicken dish. zucchini chicken noodle casserole.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic depth; minced finely for even distribution.
- Bell Peppers: Choose any color bell peppers for sweetness and crunch; diced into small pieces.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes work well here; they provide acidity and moisture to the dish.
- Tomato Sauce: A key component that binds everything together; opt for no-salt-added varieties if desired.
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning and paprika add warmth; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or mozzarella tops it off nicely; who doesn’t love melted cheese?
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 as it cooks. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy beef wraps recipe.
Add the Veggies: Toss in the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté until they soften, around five minutes, releasing their sweet aromas into the air.
Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic and seasonings. Cook until fragrant, about one minute, allowing those flavors to dance together beautifully.
Combine Tomatoes and Sauce: Pour in diced tomatoes along with tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients, creating a luscious base.
Add Pasta and Simmer: Mix in uncooked pasta with enough water or broth to cover everything by an inch. Bring it to a boil before reducing heat to simmer until pasta is tender.
Top with Cheese and Serve!: Once cooked through, sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover for a few minutes until melted. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy creating grandma’s goulash! You’ll find that each step not only builds flavor but also brings back cherished memories of family gatherings around the dinner table.
You Must Know
- Grandma’s goulash is comfort food at its finest, combining rich flavors and textures
- The aroma wafts through the house, making everyone eager for dinner
- This dish is perfect for gatherings and can easily feed a crowd while making your kitchen feel like home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat first to lock in flavor, then sauté the vegetables before adding liquids. This sequence ensures all ingredients meld beautifully together, creating that nostalgia-filled taste we crave.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add some diced bell peppers for an extra crunch. Experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for a little kick and personalize it to your family’s liking!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover goulash in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, use low heat on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance grandma’s goulash, consider using homemade stock instead of water; it adds depth
- Be cautious not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente
- Always taste and adjust seasoning towards the end for optimal flavor balance
The first time I made grandma’s goulash for my friends, they declared it ‘life-changing.’ Who knew such comfort could come from a bubbling pot on the stove?
FAQ
What type of meat works best for grandma’s goulash?
Ground beef is traditional, but turkey or even lentils work well too. For more inspiration, check out this hearty lentil stew recipe.
Can I freeze grandma’s goulash?
Yes, just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
How do I make my goulash thicker?
Add more pasta or a cornstarch slurry while cooking for that perfect consistency.
Grandma’s Goulash
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Grandma’s goulash is a heartwarming dish that combines tender ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, savory sauce. This comforting meal not only fills your belly but also warms your soul, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With just a few simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or favorite pasta)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
- Add the diced onion and bell peppers; sauté for about five minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika; cook for one minute until fragrant.
- Mix in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce; stir well to combine.
- Add uncooked pasta and enough water (or broth) to cover everything by an inch. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer until pasta is tender (about 10-12 minutes).
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover for a few minutes until melted, then serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
