Magical Grandma’s Goulash Recipe for Cozy Comfort

There’s something magical about grandma’s goulash. The moment you walk into the kitchen, the aroma hits you like a warm hug on a chilly day, enveloping you with the promise of comfort and satisfaction. Picture this: tender pasta swimming in a rich tomato sauce, mingling with juicy ground beef and vibrant bell peppers, all topped with a sprinkle of cheese that melts just right. It’s like a cozy blanket for your stomach, calling you to enjoy every hearty bite.

I still remember those family gatherings when grandma would whip up her famous goulash, her laughter echoing through the room as she stirred the pot. Everyone would gather around the table, sharing stories and savoring each mouthful. It was more than just a meal; it was an event—a celebration of love, family, and all things delicious. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a casual Sunday dinner, grandma’s goulash is always the star of the show.

It never fails to impress my family when I bring out grandma’s goulash during special occasions; their smiles are priceless.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a hearty texture without excess grease.
• Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for goulash; it holds onto sauces beautifully.
• Onion: Finely chop one large onion to add savory depth to your goulash.
• Bell Peppers: Use red and green bell peppers for sweetness and color.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic kick that’s hard to resist.
• Tomato Sauce: Choose your favorite brand; it’s the base for that rich flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and freshness; opt for fire-roasted if you like extra flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates that melty goodness everyone loves.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall taste—homemade mixes work wonders.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; 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

Start with Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and golden brown.

Add Ground Beef: Incorporate the ground beef into the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over while enjoying that mouthwatering aroma.

Toss in Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers along with salt and pepper. Stir frequently until they soften slightly; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

Add Tomato Products and Seasonings: Pour in both tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Sprinkle Italian seasoning over everything while mixing thoroughly until combined.

Add Pasta and Simmer Away!: Stir in elbow macaroni along with enough water to cover everything by about an inch. Bring to a boil then reduce heat, letting it simmer until pasta is tender—about 10-12 minutes should do.

Finish with Cheese Topping!: Once cooked through, remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover the pot briefly until cheese melts into gooey perfection—your goulash is ready to serve!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef to develop flavor, then add onions and garlic for a fragrant base before mixing in the rest of the ingredients.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add bell peppers for extra crunch. Experiment with different spices to make it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of rainy Sundays spent with my grandma. Her goulash was legendary, and every bite took me back to those warm kitchen moments.

FAQ

What is grandma’s goulash typically made of?

Grandma’s goulash usually features ground beef, macaroni, tomatoes, and spices.

Can I make grandma’s goulash vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles for a veggie version.

How do I prevent my pasta from becoming mushy in goulash?

Cook your pasta al dente before mixing it into the goulash for better texture.

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Grandma’s Goulash

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Grandma’s goulash is a heartwarming, one-pot dish that combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a medley of colorful vegetables in a rich tomato sauce. This nostalgic recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will warm your soul. With easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 15 oz tomato sauce
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Add ground beef to the pot; break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned.
3. Stir in diced bell peppers along with salt and pepper; cook for about 3-5 minutes until softened.
4. Mix in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes; add Italian seasoning and stir well.
5. Add elbow macaroni with enough water to cover by an inch; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
7. Remove from heat, sprinkle cheddar on top, cover briefly until melted, then serve.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-Pot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg