Grandmas goulash: 5 Steps to Heartwarming Comfort

septembre 11, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s something truly magical about Grandma’s goulash. It’s one of those dishes that wraps you in a warm hug on a chilly day, filling your home with the most comforting aromas. I remember sitting at her kitchen table, the clatter of pots and pans mingling with laughter, as she stirred this hearty concoction on the stovetop. Every bite is a delightful mix of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and vibrant veggies, all simmered together in a rich tomato sauce. It’s like a cozy blanket on a plate! Trust me, this recipe not only nourishes the body but also serves up a generous helping of nostalgia. So, whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just to indulge in some comfort food, you’re going to love how simple and satisfying it is to whip up. Let’s dive in!

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Ingredients for Grandma’s Goulash

Gather these simple, hearty ingredients to create the ultimate comfort dish that your family will adore. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef (I prefer lean beef for less grease, but use what you love!)
1 onion, chopped (A medium onion adds just the right amount of sweetness)
1 bell pepper, chopped (Red, green, or yellow—whichever you have on hand)
2 cloves garlic, minced (Because garlic makes everything better!)
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (The juiciness is crucial for flavor)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (This ties everything together with its rich taste)
2 cups elbow macaroni (You can also use any pasta shape you have; it’s all good!)
2 cups beef broth (Homemade if you have it, but store-bought works just fine)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (For that extra depth of flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste (Don’t be shy with the seasoning!)

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only filling but also packed with flavor. Plus, you might find you have most of these in your pantry already! Ready to get cooking?

How to Prepare Grandma’s Goulash

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the magic of making Grandma’s goulash! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise the aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add the ground beef. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it apart, stirring occasionally. You want it to brown evenly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Trust me, this step is crucial for building that deep flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to soften and become fragrant—oh, the smell is just heavenly! This is where the magic begins, folks!

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Sauce

Now, it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Give it a good mix, and let those ingredients mingle for a minute. The juices from the tomatoes will create a beautiful base for the goulash. Wow, just wait until you see that vibrant color!

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasoning

Next up, pour in the beef broth along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don’t hold back on the seasoning—this dish thrives on flavor! Give everything a good stir, and let it come to a gentle boil. This is where the magic starts to bubble!

Step 5: Boil and Simmer

Once it’s boiling, add the elbow macaroni. Stir it in, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You want the pasta to cook through and soak up all those delicious flavors. Just keep an eye on it, giving it a stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!

Step 6: Serve the Dish

Your goulash is now ready to serve! Scoop it into bowls while it’s hot, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, top it with some shredded cheese or fresh herbs. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or just a comforting meal for yourself. Enjoy every bite of this hearty, flavorful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying those big appetites.
Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry!
Easy to make in one pot, which means less mess and more time to relax.
Customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
A family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
Quick to whip up, taking only about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a dish you’ll crave again and again!

Tips for Success

If you want to make Grandma’s goulash perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve picked up along the way. These little secrets will help you elevate your dish and make it just like Grandma used to make!

Don’t skimp on the browning: Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly; it adds a depth of flavor that really makes the dish pop!
Mix and match veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or even spinach. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!
Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the veggies.
Cook the pasta to al dente: Remember that the pasta will continue to cook in the goulash, so it’s best to undercook it slightly during the simmering step, so it doesn’t get mushy.
Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day or two in advance, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Cheese, please: Top your goulash with shredded cheese just before serving. Let it melt for a gooey, delicious finish. Yum!
Adjust the liquid: If you prefer a saucier goulash, add a bit more beef broth or tomato sauce. It’s all about your personal taste!
Store it properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave!
Experiment with herbs: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving can brighten the dish and add a lovely touch.
Don’t rush the simmer: Letting it simmer for the full time allows all those flavors to develop fully, creating that comforting taste we all love!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Grandma’s goulash, making it a dish that brings joy and comfort to your table every time!

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into the deliciousness, let’s chat about the nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a typical breakdown for one serving of Grandma’s goulash:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 20g

This hearty dish not only fills you up but also provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a satisfying meal. So, dig in and enjoy the comfort of Grandma’s goulash, knowing it’s nourishing as well as delicious!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Grandma’s goulash? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries I’ve come across, along with my best tips and tricks to make this dish even more delightful:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great in this recipe if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they might cook a bit faster.

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
No worries! You can substitute it with any pasta shape you have on hand—penne, rotini, or even shells work perfectly. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta instructions!

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in veggies like zucchini, corn, or spinach. Just remember to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly and blend nicely into the dish.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s just as tasty the next day!

Can I freeze Grandma’s goulash?
Yes! This goulash freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with goulash?
I love serving it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. You can also add some crusty bread for dipping—so good!

Is there a vegetarian version of this goulash?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You’ll still get that hearty, comforting vibe!

Can I make it spicy?
For sure! If you like a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you sauté the vegetables. It’ll add a nice heat to the dish!

Hopefully, these answers help you on your journey to creating the perfect Grandma’s goulash. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a pot of Grandma’s goulash, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it to really make the meal shine! Here are some of my favorite ideas that complement this hearty dish beautifully:

Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, crusty slice of garlic bread for dipping into that delicious sauce. It’s like a match made in heaven!
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and brightens up the meal.
Crusty Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are perfect for scooping up any leftover goulash. Plus, they add a cozy touch to the table!
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice contrast to the warm, savory goulash. It’s refreshing and adds a bit of crunch!
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots on the side add color and nutrients, making your plate feel balanced.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you want to go all out, serve some creamy mashed potatoes topped with cheese. It’s a comfort food dream!
Pickles or Sweet Relish: A side of pickles adds a nice tanginess, cutting through the richness of the goulash. It’s a little unexpected, but so good!

Mix and match these sides to create the perfect spread for your family or friends. Trust me, with these serving suggestions, your goulash dinner will be a hit every time!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.