Delightful Grandma’s Goulash: A Hearty Family Favorite

There’s something magical about the aroma of grandma’s goulash wafting through the house, isn’t there? Picture a bubbling pot on the stove, tender beef mingling with vibrant peppers and fragrant spices, creating a symphony of flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. Each bowl serves up warmth and nostalgia, evoking memories of family gatherings where everyone fought for seconds.

Now imagine sitting down with a steaming bowl of this hearty dish, ready to dive into layers of taste and texture that feel like a warm hug. As you take that first bite, the savory richness envelops your senses, making it impossible not to smile. comfort food classic It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra love in your life.

I still remember the first time I made grandma’s goulash for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites. For more inspiration, check out this creamy sausage rigatoni recipe.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: A classic choice; aim for 80/20 for flavor without being too greasy. For more inspiration, check out this easy instant pot beef stew recipe.

• Onion: Chop finely for sweetness; it adds depth to the overall flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they pack a punch that enhances every bite.

• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red and green for color and sweetness; they brighten up the dish.

• Diced Tomatoes: Canned or fresh, they provide moisture and acidity to balance flavors.

• Tomato Sauce: This adds richness; I prefer using low-sodium varieties to manage salt levels.

• Pasta (Macaroni): Choose small shapes like elbow macaroni that hold onto the sauce beautifully.

• Beef Broth: It infuses more flavor; homemade is great but store-bought works just fine.

• Spices (Paprika, Oregano): These elevate the overall taste; smoked paprika is my secret weapon here.

• Salt and Pepper: To taste; always season as you go for balanced flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers into small pieces. This creates a flavorful base while ensuring even cooking.

Sauté the Base Flavors: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil before adding ground beef. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula.

Add Aromatics and Veggies: Toss in chopped onions and garlic when meat is nearly done. Sauté until onions become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.

Mix in Bell Peppers and Tomatoes: Stir in diced bell peppers along with canned tomatoes. Let them mingle on low heat until everything is heated through.

Combine Broth and Seasonings: Pour in beef broth along with tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine those beautiful flavors.

Add Pasta and Simmer Away!: Finally, stir in macaroni and allow everything to simmer on low heat until pasta is tender—usually around 10-12 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally!

Serve hot with some crusty bread or sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an extra touch of love! Enjoy every comforting bite of grandma’s goulash—it’s like getting wrapped in your favorite blanket on a chilly day! herb cheese bread. sweet banana bread dessert.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef, then add onions and peppers before stirring in tomatoes and pasta. This sequence allows flavors to develop beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. Spice it up with paprika or Italian herbs for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

You know, I once made this dish for my family, and they all started reminiscing about their childhoods while devouring it. It was like a time machine in a pot!

FAQ

Can I make grandma’s goulash vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace meat with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein.

What can I serve with grandma’s goulash?

Serve with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.

How can I freeze grandma’s goulash?

Cool completely, then transfer to freezer bags, removing air before sealing tightly.

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Grandma’s Goulash

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• Author: Doorecipes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Grandma’s goulash—a comforting, one-pot dish that blends tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and rich tomatoes with elbow macaroni. This nostalgic recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for chilly evenings when you crave a hearty meal that warms your soul. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete dinner that brings family together.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup bell peppers (mix of red and green), diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce (low-sodium)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and brown the ground beef.
3. Once browned, stir in the onions and garlic; sauté until translucent.
4. Add the bell peppers and diced tomatoes; cook on low heat until heated through.
5. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce; season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Mix in the elbow macaroni; simmer on low for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For a healthier option, substitute ground beef with turkey or lentils for a vegetarian version. Spice it up by adding additional herbs or your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.