Grandma’s Goulash

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There’s something inherently nostalgic about a steaming bowl of Grandma’s Goulash. This dish is comfort in its truest form—a humble yet hearty mix of beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, simmered to perfection. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t need embellishment because every bite tastes like home.

While goulash has Hungarian roots, this American version has become a staple in many households, often passed down through generations. With tender chunks of beef, sweet bell peppers, and just the right amount of seasoning, it balances richness and familiarity. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or brought to a potluck, it brings people together around the table.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Classic elbow macaroni is the go-to for Grandma’s Goulash. Its small, curved shape captures the sauce beautifully, allowing every spoonful to deliver maximum flavor. If you’re in a pinch, other small pasta shapes like shells or ditalini can work, but elbow macaroni holds tradition and texture best.

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Ingredients for the Grandma’s Goulash

Ground Beef
A generous portion of lean ground beef forms the base of the dish, offering both flavor and hearty protein.

Elbow Macaroni
These noodles are essential to soak up the tomatoey sauce and bring the classic texture goulash is known for.

Onions and Bell Peppers
These aromatics add sweetness, crunch, and color to balance the richness of the beef.

Garlic
A few cloves of minced garlic bring depth and warmth to the sauce.

Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes
These build the goulash’s signature savory-sweet base. The combo adds both body and bright acidity.

Beef Broth
This adds an extra layer of umami and keeps the sauce luscious and full-bodied.

Worcestershire Sauce
Just a splash deepens the flavor with a hint of tangy-sweet complexity.

Italian Seasoning and Paprika
These dried herbs and spices enhance the sauce with earthy notes and a mild kick.

Salt and Pepper
Essential to round out all the other flavors.

Fresh Parsley (optional)
Sprinkled on top for a pop of green and freshness just before serving.

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How To Make the Grandma’s Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing them until they become soft and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Mix in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni in a separate pot according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Simmer

Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy flavors of this timeless dish.

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How to Serve and Store Grandma’s Goulash

Serve Grandma’s Goulash hot in deep bowls, optionally paired with crusty bread or a side salad to round out the meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream can add extra richness.

For storing, let the goulash cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a lighter alternative and works well with the same seasonings and sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. In fact, goulash often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute with soy sauce and a touch of vinegar or skip it entirely; the flavor will still be robust.

Is this goulash spicy?

Not inherently. The paprika adds warmth, but for a spicier version, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach make great additions if you want to boost the veggie content.

Does the pasta get mushy when reheated?

If overcooked initially, yes. That’s why cooking the macaroni al dente is key to maintaining texture after reheating.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a simple yet satisfying weeknight option. Or try the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti for something rich and cheesy.

For heartier fare, the Pepperoni Pizza Casserole: A Comforting Twist on a Classic is always a hit. You could also go for the Rigatoni Bolognese: A Hearty Italian Classic when you’re craving a meaty, slow-simmered sauce.

If you’re leaning toward one-pan simplicity, the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta offers bold flavor with easy cleanup.

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you tweak the spices? Add extra veggies? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bring this dish to life.

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