Oh, Grandma’s goulash—just the thought of it brings back a wave of warmth and nostalgia! I remember running into her cozy kitchen, the rich aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices wrapping around me like a comforting hug. This hearty dish was a staple at family gatherings, where we’d gather around the table, bowls brimming with that delicious mix of ground beef, pasta, and love. It’s the kind of meal that fills not just your stomach but your heart too. Trust me, once you make this goulash, you’ll want to share it with everyone you love—just like Grandma did!
Ingredients for Grandma’s Goulash
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to recreating that beloved dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Don’t worry if you don’t have all the exact brands—just aim for quality. I love using fresh garlic, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works too! And remember, feel free to get creative with any extra veggies you have lying around. Bell peppers or even a handful of corn can add a nice twist! Just chop them up and toss them in with the onions and garlic. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Grandma’s Goulash
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making Grandma’s goulash is as easy as pie and just as comforting. Here’s how to whip up this delicious dish step-by-step:
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- First things first, grab a large pot and set it over medium heat. Add your 1 pound of ground beef to the pot. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up as it cooks—no one wants big chunks of beef!
- Once the beef is browned, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. Wow, that smell is already amazing!
- Next, stir in the 15-ounce can of diced tomatoes, the 8-ounce can of tomato sauce, and your 2 cups of beef broth. Give it a good stir and bring everything to a boil. Don’t rush this part—it’s where all the flavors start to mingle.
- As soon as it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Add in your cup of elbow macaroni and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. This is where the magic happens! Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
- Finally, after 10 minutes, check if the pasta is cooked to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and there you have it—Grandma’s goulash is ready to be served hot and hearty!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make Grandma’s goulash, let’s talk about a few tips that’ll help you nail it every single time! Trust me, these little pointers can make a big difference.
- Brown the beef well: Don’t rush the browning process! Getting that nice caramelization on the beef adds so much depth to the flavor. It’s all about those little details!
- Season as you go: As you add new ingredients, don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Layering flavors is key, so taste as you cook to ensure it’s just right!
- Experiment with spices: While Italian seasoning is traditional, feel free to throw in some paprika or even a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat. Spice it up to match your taste!
- Don’t skip the simmer: Simmering is where the magic happens. Letting those flavors blend together for a bit longer can elevate your goulash to new heights!
- Make it your own: Add in any veggies you love! Zucchini, peas, or even mushrooms can sneak in for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them up and toss them in!
- Top it off: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top when serving can take your goulash to a whole new level of comfort! Think gooey, melty goodness as you dig in.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making an unforgettable goulash that might just become your new family favorite! Happy cooking!
Variations of Grandma’s Goulash
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Grandma’s goulash, let’s have some fun with it! There are so many creative ways to mix things up and give this dish your own personal touch. Here are a few ideas that I absolutely adore:
- Veggie Delight: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just toss them in with the onions and garlic for a colorful, veggie-packed twist!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. It’ll give your goulash a warm, spicy finish that’s sure to wake up your taste buds!
- Cheesy Comfort: Incorporate some shredded cheese right into the goulash while it simmers! Cheddar or mozzarella can create a creamy, gooey texture that takes comfort food to a whole new level.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley! Toss in some chopped fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of freshness that really brightens the dish.
- Worldly Flavors: Why not give it a Mexican twist? Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning. Top it off with some avocado or sour cream for a delicious fusion!
- Hearty Beans: For a heartier version, consider adding a can of kidney beans or chickpeas. They not only enhance the protein content but also add a lovely texture!
These variations can be a fun way to keep Grandma’s goulash exciting and new every time you whip it up. Get creative, and don’t hesitate to try out different combinations that suit your family’s tastes. Happy experimenting!
Nutritional Information
Let’s chat about the nutritional side of Grandma’s goulash! This dish is not just delicious but also packed with some solid nutrition. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so think of them as a helpful guide rather than strict rules. Plus, with all those hearty ingredients, you’re getting a great balance of protein and carbs to keep you satisfied! Just remember, Grandma’s goulash is all about comfort, so enjoy every delicious bite knowing it’s good for you too!
FAQ About Grandma’s Goulash
Got questions about Grandma’s goulash? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I hear, along with my handy answers to help you out:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it might cook a little faster, so watch it closely!
What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
No problem! You can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or shell pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down first—nobody likes a hot mess in the fridge!
Can I freeze Grandma’s goulash?
Yes, you can! Freeze it in portions for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
How do I reheat it?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in any veggies you love, like spinach, zucchini, or carrots. Just chop them up and add them in with the onions and garlic for an extra nutritious boost!
Is Grandma’s goulash spicy?
The classic recipe isn’t spicy, but you can definitely add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne if you want to kick up the heat a notch!
How can I make it gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, simply swap the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta. Just check the cooking time as it might differ a bit!
Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions! Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so I’m here to help you make the most delicious Grandma’s goulash possible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Grandma’s goulash! This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor. Here’s why you’ll want to make it again and again:
- Hearty and Filling: With ground beef, pasta, and veggies, this goulash is a one-pot wonder that satisfies even the hungriest of appetites.
- Comforting Flavors: The rich blend of tomatoes and spices reminds you of cozy family dinners, evoking memories of home-cooked meals.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without all the fuss.
- Customizable: Whether you want to add extra veggies, swap out proteins, or spice it up, this recipe is adaptable to your tastes!
- Leftover Friendly: It stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dish.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this hearty dish, making it a surefire hit for family dinners.
Trust me, once you make Grandma’s goulash, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, bringing comfort and joy to your table!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got a pot of Grandma’s goulash ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it up! This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can truly elevate the meal. Here are some of my favorite ideas to complement that comforting goulash:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, buttery slice of garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette brings a nice contrast to the richness of the goulash. Plus, it adds a pop of color to your table!
- Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light and healthy by serving a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They add great texture and nutrients!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the warm, savory flavors of goulash.
- Cheesy Biscuits: If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, fluffy cheesy biscuits are a fantastic choice. They’re perfect for sopping up every last bit of goulash!
- Pickles or Relish: Adding a side of pickles or a dollop of relish can introduce a zesty element that brightens up the meal.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you and your family enjoy! The key is to create a balanced plate that enhances that heartwarming experience of Grandma’s goulash. Happy feasting!
Print
Grandma’s Goulash: 5 Simple Tips for Comforting Success
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and comforting dish made with ground beef, pasta, and tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic; cook until tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni and Italian seasoning.
- Simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
- Top with shredded cheese if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: grandmas goulash, hearty goulash, comfort food
