Easy Grandma’s Goulash Simple and Hearty Dish

by
To make Easy Grandma's Goulash, gather these key items: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, chopped (choose your favorite color) - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) - 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended) - 1 cup elbow macaroni - 1 tsp smoked paprika - 1 tsp Italian seasoning - Salt and black pepper to taste These main ingredients create a warm and filling dish. The ground beef provides protein, while the pasta makes it hearty. Diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. Beef broth enhances the taste and ties everything together. You can adjust the recipe to fit your taste. Here are some ideas: - Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. - Add vegetables like zucchini or corn. - Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber. - Toss in some frozen peas for color. - Spice it up with red pepper flakes. These options let you make the dish your own, bringing in new flavors or textures. Finishing touches can elevate your goulash. Consider these toppings: - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) A sprinkle of cheese makes it creamy and rich. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can serve the goulash in deep bowls and pair it with crusty bread for a cozy meal. This simple dish is perfect for sharing! For the full recipe, check out the details above. To start, gather all your ingredients. This makes cooking smooth and easy. You will need: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, chopped - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) - 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended) - 1 cup elbow macaroni - 1 tsp smoked paprika - 1 tsp Italian seasoning - Salt and black pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) Next, finely chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic. This will help them cook fast. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven on medium. Add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain any excess grease. Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir until the onion is soft and fragrant. Add the chopped bell pepper next. Cook for 3 more minutes. This softens the pepper and adds flavor. Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir well to mix every ingredient. Season the mix with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Turn up the heat to high. Bring it to a gentle boil. After boiling, lower the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. This keeps the macaroni from sticking. If you want a cheesy touch, add the shredded cheese in the last few minutes. Cover the pot to let the cheese melt. Once done, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. To get the best texture, stir often. This stops the macaroni from sticking and helps it cook evenly. If the goulash seems too thick, add more beef broth. If you prefer a saucier dish, add more diced tomatoes. Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Enjoy this cozy meal! For a full recipe, see the full recipe section. To make goulash really pop, start with browning the beef. This adds rich flavor. Use a heavy pot for even cooking. When you add garlic and onion, stir them until they smell sweet. This step builds a solid base for your dish. Don't rush it. Let the bell pepper cook until soft. This brings out its natural sweetness. Smoked paprika is a game-changer. It adds depth and a nice smoky note. One common mistake is overcooking the macaroni. Cook it just right and add it in the last stages. If you add it too early, it can turn mushy. Another mistake is not seasoning enough. Always taste your dish and adjust salt and pepper. Lastly, don’t skip the cheese if you love it! It adds creaminess and ties all the flavors together. Serve your goulash in deep bowls for a warm feel. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple side salad can also brighten the meal. If you want a drink, consider a light red wine. It's a perfect match for goulash. For a cozy night, serve it with a warm dessert like apple pie. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips! {{image_4}} If you want a vegetarian version of goulash, you can skip the meat. Use mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also add cooked lentils for protein. Both options give great flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying. For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken. They are leaner than beef and still tasty. You can also use tofu for a protein boost. Crumble it into the pot for a nice texture. Another option is to add chickpeas or black beans. They add fiber and are filling. Feel free to mix in extra vegetables. Carrots and zucchini work well in this dish. You can also add corn for sweetness. Experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick. If you love cheese, try adding cream cheese for a richer sauce. These creative additions will make your goulash unique and fun. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips! To store your goulash, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three to four days. This is great for quick meals later in the week. You can also freeze goulash for longer storage. Divide it into portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Goulash can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. When it's time to eat, reheat goulash on the stove. Use a medium heat and stir often. You can add a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Make sure it's hot all the way through before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal! For the full recipe, check out Grandma's Comforting Goulash. Goulash comes from Hungary. It started as a simple stew for herdsmen. Over time, it grew popular in other countries. Each place added its twist. In the U.S., we often make it with ground beef and pasta. Grandma's goulash reflects this mix of cultures. It's a warm dish that many love. Yes, you can make goulash ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day! Just let it cool before storing it in the fridge. Use a tight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to eat, heat it on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry. To spice up your goulash, add red pepper flakes. You can also try cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Start with a little and taste as you go. If you like a smoky flavor, add more smoked paprika. This way, you can find the right heat for your taste. This blog post covered everything you need for Grandma's goulash. We explored key ingredients, from the main staples to tasty toppings. You learned step-by-step how to prepare and cook the dish. Tips and tricks showed you how to avoid mistakes and enhance flavor. We discussed tasty variations, storage tips, and reheating methods. In the end, goulash is a flexible dish. You can make it your own and enjoy it again and again.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re craving a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, look no further than Easy Grandma’s Goulash. This simple and hearty recipe combines flavors and textures your family will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize! In this post, I’ll share the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make the best goulash possible. Let’s dive into the comfort of this classic dish!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Easy Grandma’s Goulash

To make Easy Grandma’s Goulash, gather these key items:

– 1 lb ground beef

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 bell pepper, chopped (choose your favorite color)

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

– 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)

– 1 cup elbow macaroni

– 1 tsp smoked paprika

– 1 tsp Italian seasoning

– Salt and black pepper to taste

These main ingredients create a warm and filling dish. The ground beef provides protein, while the pasta makes it hearty. Diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. Beef broth enhances the taste and ties everything together.

Additional Ingredients for Customization

You can adjust the recipe to fit your taste. Here are some ideas:

– Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken.

– Add vegetables like zucchini or corn.

– Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.

– Toss in some frozen peas for color.

– Spice it up with red pepper flakes.

These options let you make the dish your own, bringing in new flavors or textures.

Recommended Toppings and Garnishes

Finishing touches can elevate your goulash. Consider these toppings:

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

A sprinkle of cheese makes it creamy and rich. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can serve the goulash in deep bowls and pair it with crusty bread for a cozy meal. This simple dish is perfect for sharing! For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

To start, gather all your ingredients. This makes cooking smooth and easy. You will need:

– 1 lb ground beef

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 bell pepper, chopped

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

– 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)

– 1 cup elbow macaroni

– 1 tsp smoked paprika

– 1 tsp Italian seasoning

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Next, finely chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic. This will help them cook fast.

Cooking Process

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven on medium. Add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain any excess grease.

Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Add the chopped bell pepper next. Cook for 3 more minutes. This softens the pepper and adds flavor.

Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir well to mix every ingredient.

Season the mix with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Turn up the heat to high. Bring it to a gentle boil.

After boiling, lower the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. This keeps the macaroni from sticking.

If you want a cheesy touch, add the shredded cheese in the last few minutes. Cover the pot to let the cheese melt.

Once done, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. This helps the flavors mix well.

Tips for Achieving Perfect Texture

To get the best texture, stir often. This stops the macaroni from sticking and helps it cook evenly. If the goulash seems too thick, add more beef broth.

If you prefer a saucier dish, add more diced tomatoes. Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Enjoy this cozy meal! For a full recipe, see the full recipe section.

Tips & Tricks

Best Cooking Techniques for Flavor Enhancement

To make goulash really pop, start with browning the beef. This adds rich flavor. Use a heavy pot for even cooking. When you add garlic and onion, stir them until they smell sweet. This step builds a solid base for your dish. Don’t rush it. Let the bell pepper cook until soft. This brings out its natural sweetness. Smoked paprika is a game-changer. It adds depth and a nice smoky note.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the macaroni. Cook it just right and add it in the last stages. If you add it too early, it can turn mushy. Another mistake is not seasoning enough. Always taste your dish and adjust salt and pepper. Lastly, don’t skip the cheese if you love it! It adds creaminess and ties all the flavors together.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve your goulash in deep bowls for a warm feel. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple side salad can also brighten the meal. If you want a drink, consider a light red wine. It’s a perfect match for goulash. For a cozy night, serve it with a warm dessert like apple pie. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips!

Variations

Vegetarian Goulash Options

If you want a vegetarian version of goulash, you can skip the meat. Use mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also add cooked lentils for protein. Both options give great flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying.

Alternative Protein Sources

For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken. They are leaner than beef and still tasty. You can also use tofu for a protein boost. Crumble it into the pot for a nice texture. Another option is to add chickpeas or black beans. They add fiber and are filling.

Creative Ingredient Additions

Feel free to mix in extra vegetables. Carrots and zucchini work well in this dish. You can also add corn for sweetness. Experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick. If you love cheese, try adding cream cheese for a richer sauce. These creative additions will make your goulash unique and fun. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers Effectively

To store your goulash, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three to four days. This is great for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing Tips for Easy Meal Prep

You can also freeze goulash for longer storage. Divide it into portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Goulash can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Guidelines

When it’s time to eat, reheat goulash on the stove. Use a medium heat and stir often. You can add a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Make sure it’s hot all the way through before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal!

For the full recipe, check out Grandma’s Comforting Goulash.

FAQs

What is the origin of Goulash?

Goulash comes from Hungary. It started as a simple stew for herdsmen. Over time, it grew popular in other countries. Each place added its twist. In the U.S., we often make it with ground beef and pasta. Grandma’s goulash reflects this mix of cultures. It’s a warm dish that many love.

Can I make goulash in advance?

Yes, you can make goulash ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day! Just let it cool before storing it in the fridge. Use a tight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to eat, heat it on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

How to make goulash spicier?

To spice up your goulash, add red pepper flakes. You can also try cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Start with a little and taste as you go. If you like a smoky flavor, add more smoked paprika. This way, you can find the right heat for your taste.

This blog post covered everything you need for Grandma’s goulash. We explored key ingredients, from the main staples to tasty toppings. You learned step-by-step how to prepare and cook the dish. Tips and tricks showed you how to avoid mistakes and enhance flavor. We discussed tasty variations, storage tips, and reheating methods.

In the end, goulash is a flexible dish. You can make it your own and enjoy it again and again.

To make Easy Grandma's Goulash, gather these key items: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, chopped (choose your favorite color) - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) - 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended) - 1 cup elbow macaroni - 1 tsp smoked paprika - 1 tsp Italian seasoning - Salt and black pepper to taste These main ingredients create a warm and filling dish. The ground beef provides protein, while the pasta makes it hearty. Diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. Beef broth enhances the taste and ties everything together. You can adjust the recipe to fit your taste. Here are some ideas: - Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. - Add vegetables like zucchini or corn. - Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber. - Toss in some frozen peas for color. - Spice it up with red pepper flakes. These options let you make the dish your own, bringing in new flavors or textures. Finishing touches can elevate your goulash. Consider these toppings: - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) A sprinkle of cheese makes it creamy and rich. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. You can serve the goulash in deep bowls and pair it with crusty bread for a cozy meal. This simple dish is perfect for sharing! For the full recipe, check out the details above. To start, gather all your ingredients. This makes cooking smooth and easy. You will need: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, chopped - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) - 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended) - 1 cup elbow macaroni - 1 tsp smoked paprika - 1 tsp Italian seasoning - Salt and black pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) Next, finely chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic. This will help them cook fast. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven on medium. Add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Once browned, drain any excess grease. Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir until the onion is soft and fragrant. Add the chopped bell pepper next. Cook for 3 more minutes. This softens the pepper and adds flavor. Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and elbow macaroni. Stir well to mix every ingredient. Season the mix with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Turn up the heat to high. Bring it to a gentle boil. After boiling, lower the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. This keeps the macaroni from sticking. If you want a cheesy touch, add the shredded cheese in the last few minutes. Cover the pot to let the cheese melt. Once done, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. This helps the flavors mix well. To get the best texture, stir often. This stops the macaroni from sticking and helps it cook evenly. If the goulash seems too thick, add more beef broth. If you prefer a saucier dish, add more diced tomatoes. Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Enjoy this cozy meal! For a full recipe, see the full recipe section. To make goulash really pop, start with browning the beef. This adds rich flavor. Use a heavy pot for even cooking. When you add garlic and onion, stir them until they smell sweet. This step builds a solid base for your dish. Don't rush it. Let the bell pepper cook until soft. This brings out its natural sweetness. Smoked paprika is a game-changer. It adds depth and a nice smoky note. One common mistake is overcooking the macaroni. Cook it just right and add it in the last stages. If you add it too early, it can turn mushy. Another mistake is not seasoning enough. Always taste your dish and adjust salt and pepper. Lastly, don’t skip the cheese if you love it! It adds creaminess and ties all the flavors together. Serve your goulash in deep bowls for a warm feel. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A simple side salad can also brighten the meal. If you want a drink, consider a light red wine. It's a perfect match for goulash. For a cozy night, serve it with a warm dessert like apple pie. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips! {{image_4}} If you want a vegetarian version of goulash, you can skip the meat. Use mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also add cooked lentils for protein. Both options give great flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This keeps the dish rich and satisfying. For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken. They are leaner than beef and still tasty. You can also use tofu for a protein boost. Crumble it into the pot for a nice texture. Another option is to add chickpeas or black beans. They add fiber and are filling. Feel free to mix in extra vegetables. Carrots and zucchini work well in this dish. You can also add corn for sweetness. Experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick. If you love cheese, try adding cream cheese for a richer sauce. These creative additions will make your goulash unique and fun. Check out the Full Recipe for more tips! To store your goulash, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about three to four days. This is great for quick meals later in the week. You can also freeze goulash for longer storage. Divide it into portions before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Goulash can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. When it's time to eat, reheat goulash on the stove. Use a medium heat and stir often. You can add a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Make sure it's hot all the way through before serving. Enjoy your comforting meal! For the full recipe, check out Grandma's Comforting Goulash. Goulash comes from Hungary. It started as a simple stew for herdsmen. Over time, it grew popular in other countries. Each place added its twist. In the U.S., we often make it with ground beef and pasta. Grandma's goulash reflects this mix of cultures. It's a warm dish that many love. Yes, you can make goulash ahead of time. It tastes even better the next day! Just let it cool before storing it in the fridge. Use a tight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to eat, heat it on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry. To spice up your goulash, add red pepper flakes. You can also try cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Start with a little and taste as you go. If you like a smoky flavor, add more smoked paprika. This way, you can find the right heat for your taste. This blog post covered everything you need for Grandma's goulash. We explored key ingredients, from the main staples to tasty toppings. You learned step-by-step how to prepare and cook the dish. Tips and tricks showed you how to avoid mistakes and enhance flavor. We discussed tasty variations, storage tips, and reheating methods. In the end, goulash is a flexible dish. You can make it your own and enjoy it again and again.

Easy Grandma's Goulash

Warm your heart and satisfy your appetite with Grandma's comforting goulash! This easy recipe combines ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a medley of fresh ingredients for a delicious one-pot meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Discover how to create this cozy classic and make every bite a nourishing experience. Click through for the full recipe and bring comfort to your kitchen!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, chopped (choose your favorite color)

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)

1 cup elbow macaroni

1 tsp smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)

1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano for a more robust taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it's browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease if necessary.

    Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

      Incorporate the chopped bell pepper into the mixture. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, allowing the bell pepper to soften slightly.

        Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices, the beef broth, and the elbow macaroni. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.

          Season the goulash with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

            Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking.

              If you want a cheesy finish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture in the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the pot again to allow the cheese to melt.

                Once done, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes before serving, which will help the flavors meld together.

                  Serve your delicious goulash hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness if desired.

                    Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4-6

                      - Presentation Tips: For a cozy presentation, serve the goulash in deep bowls with a sprinkle of parsley on top. Pair it with crusty bread for a comforting meal!

                        WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?