Grandma’s goulash is a cherished comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any meal. This one-pot dish combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and colorful vegetables in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, Grandma’s goulash offers a delightful array of flavors that remind us of home cooking. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this all-in-one meal that cooks everything in one pot.
- Customizable Ingredients: Tailor the recipe by swapping out ground beef for turkey or plant-based options based on your preferences.
- Kid-Friendly Flavor: The savory taste and cheesy topping appeal to both kids and adults, making it a family favorite.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, this dish keeps everyone satisfied and full.
Tools and Preparation
To make Grandma’s goulash efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Gathering these tools beforehand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A sturdy pot helps cook everything evenly while providing enough space for all the ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in the dish.
Ingredients
For the Goulash Base
- 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
For the Sauce
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Grandma’s Goulash
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the pot; break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers
Stir in diced bell peppers along with salt and pepper; cook for about 3–5 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Mix in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes; add Italian seasoning and stir well.
Step 5: Incorporate Elbow Macaroni
Add elbow macaroni with enough water to cover by an inch; bring to a boil.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender.
Step 7: Top with Cheese
Remove from heat, sprinkle cheddar on top, cover briefly until melted, then serve.
This comforting dish serves six people and takes only 45 minutes from start to finish. Enjoy every bite of this delicious Grandma’s goulash!
How to Serve Grandma’s Goulash
Serving Grandma’s goulash is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or garnishes to enhance its flavors and presentation.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the tomato sauce.
Add a Side Salad
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Pair it with a Caesar salad for a classic combination that balances the richness of the goulash.
Accompanying Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up every last bit of goulash.
Cheese Topping
- Additional Cheddar: Offer extra shredded cheddar cheese on the side for guests to add more cheese as they like.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
How to Perfect Grandma’s Goulash
To ensure your Grandma’s goulash turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or turkey to keep it flavorful yet healthy.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on the macaroni; it should be al dente after simmering.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
- Let it Rest: Allow the goulash to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors together.
- Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Best Side Dishes for Grandma’s Goulash
Complement your Grandma’s goulash with these delicious side dishes that round out your meal perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, this is perfect for dipping!
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrients.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm goulash.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful burst of flavor when served alongside.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a hearty pairing with this one-pot dish.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the savory notes of goulash beautifully.
- Stuffed Peppers: For something more substantial, stuffed peppers can echo the flavors found in goulash itself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grandma’s goulash, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Flavor Failures: Not seasoning adequately can lead to blandness. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook for a richer flavor.
- Overcooking Pasta: Adding elbow macaroni too soon may cause it to become mushy. Follow the recipe timing closely for perfect pasta texture.
- Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Relying solely on canned vegetables can lessen taste. Incorporate fresh or frozen options to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Neglecting Cheese: Forgetting to add cheese at the end means missing out on creaminess. Sprinkle it on just before serving for that melty goodness.
- Ignoring Leftovers: Tossing out leftovers reduces meal opportunities. Store them properly to enjoy this dish again later.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing Grandma’s Goulash
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Grandma’s Goulash
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Grandma’s goulash special?
Grandma’s goulash is special because it combines nostalgic flavors with simple ingredients, creating a comforting meal that brings families together.
Can I customize Grandma’s goulash?
Yes! You can swap ground beef for turkey or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option. Adding different spices like paprika can enhance the flavor profile.
How long does it take to make Grandma’s goulash?
This delicious dish takes about 45 minutes in total, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Is Grandma’s goulash healthy?
While it contains hearty ingredients, you can make it healthier by using lean meat and adding more vegetables. It’s all about balance!
Can I prepare Grandma’s goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when ready to serve!
Final Thoughts
Grandma’s goulash is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that evokes warmth and comfort. Its versatility allows you to tailor ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night at home or hosting friends, give this heartwarming dish a try—it’s sure to delight everyone around the table!
Grandma’s Goulash
Grandma’s Goulash is a beloved one-pot dish that effortlessly blends comforting flavors and nostalgic memories. This hearty meal features tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and an array of colorful vegetables simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe not only warms the heart but also fills the belly with its satisfying combination of protein and carbs. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious dinner on even the busiest weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon; cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers along with salt and pepper; cook for about 3–5 minutes until softened.
- Mix in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, adding Italian seasoning; stir well.
- Add elbow macaroni with enough water to cover by an inch; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, cover briefly until melted, then serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
