Comforting Grandma’s Goulash Recipe for Cozy Nights

Imagine walking into a warm kitchen, where the air is thick with the aroma of simmering tomatoes, tender beef, and fragrant spices. That’s what grandma’s goulash recipe brings to life—a hearty dish that wraps you in comfort like your favorite blanket on a chilly evening. It’s a culinary hug that promises satisfaction with every bite, making it an absolute must for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.

Now, let me take you back to my childhood when we would gather around the table, eagerly waiting for that magical moment when grandma would ladle out her famous goulash. The anticipation was palpable as we breathed in the mingling scents of paprika and garlic. This dish has a way of bringing everyone together, making it perfect for potlucks or simply enjoying on a rainy day.

I remember once serving this at a family reunion; my cousin couldn’t stop raving about it and asked for seconds—no wait, thirds!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty yet not overly greasy.

• Onions: Sweet onions are best; chop them finely for a perfect blend of flavor.

• Bell Peppers: Use colorful bell peppers for visual appeal and a touch of sweetness.

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth; don’t skip this crucial flavor booster.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with herbs for extra flavor.

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is classic here; it absorbs sauce perfectly and adds texture.

• Spices: Paprika and Italian seasoning are essential; they elevate the dish’s overall flavor profile.

• Broth or Water: Use beef broth if possible to deepen the flavor further.

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

Let’s Make it together

Sautéing Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant. Toss in minced garlic and continue cooking just until fragrant.

Browning the Beef: Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Break up any large chunks while stirring frequently so that it’s evenly cooked through.

Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in chopped bell peppers along with paprika and Italian seasoning. Cook for about five minutes until the peppers soften slightly.

Combine Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in canned tomatoes along with their juices and broth or water. Mix well, bringing everything together into a flavorful symphony.

Add Pasta**: Stir in elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes until pasta is cooked al dente.

Final Touches**: Once done, remove from heat and let sit briefly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra pop of color.

This grandma’s goulash recipe combines rich flavors with comforting textures that are sure to please everyone at your table!

You Must Know

• Grandma’s goulash recipe is a comfort classic that warms your soul
• This hearty dish combines pasta, meat, and a savory tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate
• Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it brings everyone together

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef before adding onions and peppers. While that’s simmering, cook the pasta separately to prevent mushiness and combine everything at the end for optimal flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option. Spice it up with hot sauce or add veggies like zucchini and mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

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

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Use high-quality tomatoes for deeper flavor; canned San Marzano tomatoes work wonders
• Always taste as you go—seasoning can make or break this dish
• Don’t skip the cheese topping; it adds richness that everyone loves!

There was that one chilly evening when I served grandma’s goulash recipe to my friends, and their faces lit up with joy. They begged me for the recipe, claiming it tasted just like home!

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in grandma’s goulash recipe?

You can use ground turkey, sausage, or even plant-based meat alternatives for added flavor.

How long does grandma’s goulash last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze leftovers from grandma’s goulash recipe?

Absolutely! It freezes well; just ensure it’s cooled before placing it in freezer-safe containers.

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Grandma’s Goulash Recipe

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Warm your heart with Grandma’s goulash, a delightful blend of ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, delivering satisfying flavors that evoke cherished memories. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes with herbs
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 3 cups beef broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any large chunks.
3. Stir in the chopped bell peppers, paprika, and Italian seasoning; cook for about five minutes.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices and the beef broth. Mix well.
5. Stir in the elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until pasta is al dente.
6. Remove from heat and let sit briefly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg