Name: Grandma's Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cups beef broth; 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 bay leaf (optional); 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of Grandma’s Goulash. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with rich aromas, bringing back childhood memories of family dinners around the table. This classic American-style goulash is a one-pot wonder, combining tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce with just the right blend of spices.

What I love most about this dish is its simplicity—minimal ingredients, easy prep, and a flavor that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this goulash is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, so you can tweak it to fit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Goulash

One-Pot Meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples without breaking the bank.
Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping.
Full of Comforting Flavors: The perfect balance of savory, slightly tangy, and hearty.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it great for busy nights.

What Type of Pasta Works Best for Goulash?

The classic choice for Grandma’s Goulash is elbow macaroni. Its small, curved shape holds onto the rich tomato sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. However, if you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand, you can use other small pasta varieties like shells, rotini, or penne. Just make sure to pick a pasta that holds its shape well and doesn’t turn mushy when simmered in the sauce.

If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you can also swap in whole wheat pasta or even gluten-free pasta, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about goulash is how flexible it is. Whether you need to make dietary adjustments or just work with what’s in your pantry, here are some easy swaps:

Ground Beef → Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great while still providing a hearty texture.
Tomato Sauce → Crushed Tomatoes or Marinara: If you don’t have tomato sauce, a can of crushed tomatoes or even a jar of marinara will do the trick.
Beef Broth → Chicken or Vegetable Broth: If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute chicken or vegetable broth for a slightly different but still delicious depth of flavor.
Diced Tomatoes → Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: If you want a bit of a smoky kick, swap in fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
Regular Macaroni → Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Cheddar Cheese (Optional) → Parmesan or Mozzarella: Some people love a cheesy goulash! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses.

With so many ways to customize it, Grandma’s Goulash can be made to fit your tastes while still keeping its comforting, nostalgic essence.

Ingredients for Grandma’s Goulash

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating that nostalgic, hearty flavor we all love. Here’s what you’ll need and why it’s essential:

Ground Beef – The foundation of the dish, adding rich, meaty flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Onion – Adds depth and sweetness to the dish as it cooks down with the beef.
Garlic – A must-have for that extra layer of savory goodness.
Elbow Macaroni – The classic pasta choice that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
Diced Tomatoes – Provides chunks of juicy tomato throughout the goulash, enhancing texture and taste.
Tomato Sauce – Creates the rich, tangy base that brings all the ingredients together.
Beef Broth – Adds depth and helps cook the pasta right in the sauce, infusing it with even more flavor.
Paprika – A subtle smokiness and warmth that gives goulash its signature taste.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds complexity and a touch of earthiness.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Bay Leaf (Optional) – Infuses a mild, aromatic depth if you let the goulash simmer for a bit longer.
Cheese (Optional) – Some love a sprinkle of cheddar or Parmesan on top for extra creaminess.

These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a meal that’s comforting, satisfying, and full of homemade goodness.

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once the beef is nearly cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using a bay leaf, add it now to enhance the flavor as it simmers. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook the Pasta

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Then, stir in the elbow macaroni, making sure it’s fully submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for another 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like a richer flavor, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken. Remove the bay leaf if you used one.

For an extra touch, sprinkle with grated cheese or fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Grandma’s Goulash!

How Long to Cook Grandma’s Goulash

This dish comes together surprisingly quickly, making it perfect for busy nights. Here’s a rough breakdown of the cooking times:

Browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics: 5-7 minutes
Simmering the sauce: 10-15 minutes
Cooking the pasta in the sauce: 12-15 minutes

In total, you’re looking at about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. If you have extra time, you can let the sauce simmer longer before adding the pasta to develop an even richer flavor.

Tips for Perfect Grandma’s Goulash

Use a Large Pot: Since this is a one-pot meal, a Dutch oven or deep skillet works best to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
Drain the Beef If Needed: If your ground beef has excess grease, drain it after browning to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The pasta continues to absorb liquid even after cooking, so remove it from heat when it’s just tender to avoid mushiness.
Simmer for More Flavor: If you have time, let the sauce simmer for a bit longer before adding the pasta. It enhances the depth of flavor.
Adjust the Thickness: If the goulash is too thick, add a little more broth. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Make it Cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the end for a creamier version.
Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings before serving! A little extra salt or paprika can make all the difference.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Grandma’s Goulash is a simple recipe, a few common mistakes can impact the final dish. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the Pasta: Since the pasta cooks in the sauce, it can absorb too much liquid if left on the stove too long. Keep an eye on it and remove from heat once tender.
Not Draining Excess Grease: If your ground beef has a high-fat content, drain the excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
Forgetting to Stir the Pasta: Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking together or to the bottom of the pot.
Not Letting the Flavors Develop: While the dish can be made quickly, letting it simmer a little longer before adding the pasta enhances the depth of flavor.
Using the Wrong Pasta: Larger pasta shapes take longer to cook and don’t absorb the sauce as well. Stick to elbow macaroni or similarly small pasta.
Not Adjusting the Seasoning: Every batch may need a little tweaking—taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices before serving.

What to Serve With Grandma’s Goulash?

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. Here are some great options:

1. Crusty Bread

A warm slice of French bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

2. Side Salad

Balance the richness with a fresh green salad, like a classic Caesar or garden salad with a light vinaigrette.

3. Grated Cheese

Sprinkle some Parmesan, cheddar, or mozzarella over your goulash for a cheesy touch.

4. Steamed Vegetables

Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.

5. Coleslaw

A simple, tangy coleslaw can cut through the heartiness of the dish, offering a nice contrast in flavors.

6. Mashed Potatoes

For an extra comforting meal, serve your goulash over a scoop of buttery mashed potatoes.

7. Red Wine or Iced Tea

If you want a drink pairing, a bold red wine (like Zinfandel) complements the rich flavors, or a glass of iced tea keeps things light and refreshing.

8. Pickles or Sauerkraut

A side of pickles or sauerkraut adds a tangy contrast that pairs well with the hearty sauce.

With these serving ideas, you can turn a simple bowl of goulash into a well-rounded meal!

Storage Instructions

Grandma’s Goulash stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it taste even better the next day!
Freezer: For longer storage, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.

Estimated Nutrition

While exact numbers vary based on ingredient brands and portions, here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: ~350-400 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~12g
Fiber: ~4g
Sodium: ~600mg

If you want a lighter version, you can use lean ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, or reduced-sodium tomato products. Either way, this dish is a satisfying, balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fiber!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make goulash ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use rotini, penne, or small shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

3. Can I make this with a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage works well in place of ground beef. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based crumbles.

4. What if my goulash is too thick?

If your goulash is too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

5. How can I make it spicier?

For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

6. Should I add cheese?

Cheese is optional, but many people love topping their goulash with cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella for extra richness.

7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots make great additions for added nutrition and flavor.

8. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes! Just make sure you have a large enough pot, and you may need to slightly adjust the cooking time to ensure even heating.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with nostalgic flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a surefire hit. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with family and friends! Enjoy every warm and cozy bite.