There are some recipes that wrap you in a hug the moment you sit down to eat, and Grandma’s Goulash is one of those magical dishes. A tapestry of tender beef, sweet onions, bell peppers, and a savory tomato base, it’s comfort by the spoonful—each bite as warm and reassuring as the hands that once prepared it. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or craving a simple, hearty dinner, Grandma’s Goulash promises classic flavors with a side of nostalgia, reminding us that the best meals are made with love and a little family history.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things blissfully simple—each ingredient in Grandma’s Goulash plays an essential role in building up that deep, familiar flavor. From the rich base to the colorful veggies and the soft noodles, every component is a winner you already have at home.

1 lb lean ground beef: Delivers savory richness and heartiness without excessive grease, the soul of Grandma’s Goulash.
1 medium onion, chopped: Brings a gentle sweetness and aroma as it softens, upping the comfort factor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant depth that punches up overall flavor—don’t skip!
1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color): The pop of freshness and subtle crunch balances the soft pasta and beef.
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juices): Juicy tomatoes work as both sauce and flavor booster, making it perfectly saucy.
2 cups elbow macaroni or egg noodles: Classic and comforting, these noodles soak in all that delicious broth.
2 cups low-sodium beef broth: Keeps the dish moist and flavorful while letting you control the salt level.
1 tbsp Italian seasoning: Offers a blend of herbs for that familiar, homey taste.
Salt and pepper to taste: Season as you go—personalize the dish for your crew.
1 cup shredded cheese (optional): Melts into creamy pools on top, turning every bite extra swoon-worthy.

How to Make Grandma’s Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating up a splash of olive oil in your favorite large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the onions and bell peppers. Let them sizzle and soften, soaking in the heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant and just a little golden. This simple step lays the foundation for all the comforting flavors ahead.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Scoot the sautéed veggies to the edge of your pan and add the ground beef to the empty space. Grab a spatula and break the beef up, letting it brown for about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir everything together once the beef is cooked through; you want it crumbly, tender, and loaded with flavor from the onions and peppers.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Now, toss in the minced garlic and let it mingle for another aromatic minute. Pour in the diced tomatoes (juices and all). Stir to combine—those tomatoes will start forming that signature tangy, saucy goodness that makes Grandma’s Goulash sing.

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and uncooked pasta, giving everything a loving stir. Turn the heat down, slap a lid on the skillet, and let it all bubble gently for about 10 to 12 minutes. This is where the kitchen smells incredible—and the noodles soak up every drop of flavor.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Uncover the pan, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you’re dreaming of a cheesy, luscious top, now’s the time to shower that shredded cheese over everything. It melts in seconds, creating a truly irresistible finish to your Grandma’s Goulash. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy vibes!

How to Serve Grandma’s Goulash

Garnishes

The finishing touches are where you can make Grandma’s Goulash shine. A scatter of chopped parsley, a few extra shreds of cheese, or even a sprinkle of cracked black pepper bring more color and flavor to the table. Little touches like these make each bowl feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair your goulash with crusty bread for mopping up every last bit, or add a crisp green salad to lighten and brighten the meal. Roasted veggies or steamed green beans work beautifully alongside Grandma’s Goulash and turn dinner into a wholesome, well-rounded spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Switch things up by ladling Grandma’s Goulash into mugs for casual, cozy nights, or serve over a bed of mashed potatoes for a stick-to-your-ribs feast. For gatherings, try spooning into ramekins and broiling with extra cheese until bubbly for an upgraded, party-ready dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Grandma’s Goulash keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator, making it a fantastic meal-prep hero. Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days—if you can resist sneaking forkfuls in between meals!

Freezing

To freeze, ladle completely cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave a little space for expansion. Stored properly, Grandma’s Goulash can bring you comfort for up to 3 months—just label and date for convenience.

Reheating

When it’s time to reheat, you have options! For quick lunches, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through. If feeding the family, warm gently in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it looks a little thick. Finish with fresh cheese and herbs for that just-cooked feel.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic, leaner swap for ground beef in Grandma’s Goulash. The flavors will be slightly lighter but just as delicious—just watch the cooking time so it doesn’t get dry.

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?

No problem! Egg noodles, rotini, penne, or even broken spaghetti work perfectly in Grandma’s Goulash. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as some pastas may cook faster or slower.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can! Substitute the ground beef for lentils, plant-based crumbles, or even more veggies. Swap the beef broth for vegetable broth, and you’ve got a hearty, satisfying vegetarian Grandma’s Goulash.

Is it OK to make this ahead of time?

Definitely. In fact, the flavors deepen and blend as it sits, making Grandma’s Goulash even more comforting the next day. Just be sure to store it properly and add a splash more broth when reheating if needed.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning or a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers. Hot sauce served on the side is always a welcome addition for spice seekers!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about bringing a classic like Grandma’s Goulash to your table—it’s easy, comforting, and brimming with love. I hope you try it for yourself, share with your favorite people, and let it become a warm tradition in your own kitchen!

Grandma’s Goulash Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 18 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and hearty recipe for Grandma’s Goulash, featuring tender ground beef, savory vegetables, and pasta in a flavorful broth.

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft, about 5 minutes.
Brown Ground Beef: Push veggies aside and brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula for about 6-8 minutes.
Add Flavors: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Mix in canned diced tomatoes with their juices.
Cook Pasta: Pour in beef broth and add uncooked pasta, stirring well. Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
Season and Serve: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Add shredded cheese on top if desired before serving.