There’s just something incredibly comforting about grandmas goulash. I remember cozy evenings at my grandmother’s kitchen table, the warm aroma of beef, tomatoes, and spices filling the air, wrapping around us like a big hug. It’s a dish that brings back memories of laughter, love, and full bellies. This hearty meal is as simple as it is satisfying, combining ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce that makes every bite feel like home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a family favorite that stands the test of time!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef (this is the star of the dish, bringing that rich flavor)
- 1 onion, chopped (for that aromatic base and a touch of sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (the heart of our sauce, rich and tangy)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (adds texture and a fresh pop)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (perfectly sized for scooping up all that goodness)
- 2 cups beef broth (for depth and to keep everything cozy)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (just a hint of herbs to elevate the flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (season to your liking for the best flavor)
How to Prepare Grandmas Goulash
Step 1 – Brown the Ground Beef
First things first, let’s get that ground beef sizzling! Grab a large pot and set it over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in the 1 lb of ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want to brown it nicely, which takes about 5–7 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink and has that beautiful, rich color.
Step 2 – Sauté Onion and Garlic
Now that our beef is browned, it’s time to add in the flavor! Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 3–5 minutes, until the onion turns soft and translucent. The smell at this point will have you dreaming of cozy dinners! Just make sure to stir it occasionally so the garlic doesn’t burn—yikes, burnt garlic is a no-go!
Step 3 – Combine Ingredients
Let’s bring everything together! Pour in the 15 oz can of tomato sauce, the 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes, and 2 cups of beef broth. Don’t forget to sprinkle in that tsp of Italian seasoning! Give it all a good stir to combine. Now, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully!
Step 4 – Cook the Pasta
Time for the elbow macaroni to shine! Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni to the pot and stir it in. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still has a nice bite to it. Make sure to give it a stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom. You want that perfect al dente texture that’ll soak up all that hearty sauce!
Step 5 – Season and Serve
Finally, let’s finish it off! Season your goulash with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this is where you can really adjust it to your liking! Once everything is combined and heated through, serve it hot and enjoy the comforting vibes. I like to ladle it into bowls and maybe sprinkle a little extra Italian seasoning on top for a final touch. Nothing says love like a warm, hearty dish of goulash!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! It’s always good to know what’s going into our delicious bowl of grandmas goulash. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 20g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. But overall, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that won’t break the calorie bank. Enjoy every hearty bite knowing you’re treating yourself right!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your grandmas goulash turns out perfectly every time? Here are some of my top tips to help you nail it!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the elbow macaroni while it cooks. You want it al dente, which means just firm enough to have a little bite. If you overcook it, it’ll get mushy and won’t hold up in the sauce.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Always taste your goulash before serving! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and onions. They add so much flavor compared to dried or powdered versions. Trust me, the difference is worth it!
- Let It Sit: If you have the time, let the goulash sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld even more, making every bite even tastier.
- Make It a Meal: Serve your goulash with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to round out the meal. It’s a great way to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce!
- Reheating Tips: If you have leftovers, when reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to keep the goulash from drying out. It’ll taste just as good the next day!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up a comforting, delicious batch of grandmas goulash that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Variations of Grandmas Goulash
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are so many delicious ways to put your own spin on grandmas goulash! Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Ground Turkey Swap: For a leaner version, try using ground turkey instead of beef. It’s just as tasty and will cut down on the fat!
- Add Some Veggies: Sneak in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for a boost of nutrients and a pop of color. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic for extra flavor!
- Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It’ll bring a whole new level of excitement to the dish!
- Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love cheese? Stir in some shredded cheese right before serving, or sprinkle it on top for a gooey, melty finish.
- Different Pasta: Switch it up with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even whole wheat or gluten-free options. Each type will give your goulash a unique bite!
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or even a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
- Make it a Casserole: For a fun twist, transfer your goulash to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a delightful casserole version!
With these variations, you can keep your grandmas goulash fresh and exciting every time you make it. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own—after all, cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing love through food!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in about 40 minutes!
- Comforting Flavors: This dish brings together savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta that feels like a warm hug.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a meal that even the pickiest eaters will love, making it perfect for family dinners.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your delicious goulash with loved ones!
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients, it’s a meal that’s easy on your wallet without skimping on flavor.
- Leftover Magic: It tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or leftovers.
- Customizable: With endless variations, you can tweak it to fit your family’s tastes or dietary needs!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from that delicious pot of grandmas goulash? You’re in luck because this dish stores beautifully! Here’s how to keep it fresh for your next meal.
- Storing Leftovers: Once your goulash has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. I love using glass containers because they don’t stain and keep everything nice and fresh! It’ll stay good in the fridge for about 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? You can freeze grandmas goulash for up to 2–3 months! Just make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container, as it may expand when frozen. Label it with the date so you don’t forget when you made it!
Now, let’s talk reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, here’s what I recommend:
- Microwave: Portion out the amount you want and pop it in the microwave. Heat it on medium power, stirring every minute until it’s heated through. If it looks a bit dry, just add a splash of beef broth or water to bring it back to life!
- Stovetop: For the best flavor, reheat it on the stovetop in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a little liquid if needed to keep it from drying out. This method will give you that fresh-cooked taste!
- Oven: If you’ve frozen it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, place it in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting flavors of grandmas goulash again and again. Enjoy every delicious bite!
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Grandmas Goulash: 7 Comforting Ways to Relish This Classic
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and comforting dish made with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- 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: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: grandmas goulash, beef goulash, comfort food