Name: Grandma’s Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2–3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked); 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional); 2 cups beef broth or water; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1/2 cup diced bell peppers; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese; Fresh chopped parsley

Warm, hearty, and packed with rich, comforting flavors, Grandma’s Goulash is the kind of dish that wraps you in a hug with every spoonful. With tender macaroni, juicy ground beef, and a savory tomato base infused with herbs and garlic, this classic American goulash has stood the test of time. It’s the ultimate one-pot wonder that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings at home.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—affordable ingredients, minimal prep, and that soul-satisfying flavor you can count on. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or lazy Sundays when all you want is something warm and filling without much fuss. Whether you grew up with it or it’s your first time trying it, Grandma’s Goulash is sure to become a staple in your comfort food collection.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Goulash

One-pot meal: Less cleanup, more flavor.
Quick & budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and comes together fast.
Kid-approved: A hit with picky eaters thanks to the soft pasta and mild sauce.
Customizable: Add veggies, spice it up, or use different pasta shapes.
Nostalgic taste: Brings back the classic flavors of home-cooked family meals.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Grandma’s Goulash

Before diving into the magic of Grandma’s Goulash, having the right tools and setting up your workspace makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. This dish doesn’t require anything fancy—just solid kitchen basics that most home cooks already have.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Large Dutch Oven or Deep Skillet
This is the heart of your goulash operation. A Dutch oven distributes heat evenly and holds all the ingredients comfortably, perfect for simmering the beef and sauce together with the pasta.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Great for stirring the beef and scraping up those flavorful browned bits without scratching your cookware.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
Essential for prepping your onions, garlic, and any additional veggies you want to toss in.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precision is key for balancing the tomato base and seasoning.
Colander
If you choose to cook the pasta separately or want to drain excess grease from the beef, a colander comes in handy.
Ladle or Serving Spoon
Because scooping up this saucy goodness should be a satisfying experience all on its own.

Preparation Tips

Getting a few things prepped before the cooking begins will save you time and effort later on.

Chop Ahead: Dice your onions, garlic, and other vegetables before turning on the stove so you can focus on the cooking flow.
Room-Temperature Meat: Let your ground beef sit out for 10–15 minutes before cooking. It browns more evenly this way.
Salt in Layers: Season your meat, veggies, and sauce separately. This builds flavor depth without relying too heavily on one component.
Simmer Gently: Once everything’s combined, let it simmer low and slow for richer flavor and a thicker sauce.
Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): For a firmer texture, cook macaroni on the side and mix it in at the end to avoid overcooking.

Ingredients for This Grandma’s Goulash

The charm of Grandma’s Goulash is how it transforms basic pantry staples into a meal that feels like a warm embrace. Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this beloved dish:

Main Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef – Lean or regular, depending on your preference (drain excess fat if using regular).
1 medium yellow onion, diced – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
2–3 garlic cloves, minced – Brings that essential aromatic backbone.
1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked) – The classic pasta choice for goulash, sturdy and comforting.
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes – For texture and balanced acidity.
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – Creates the rich, savory base.
2 tablespoons tomato paste – Optional, for an extra concentrated tomato flavor.
2 cups beef broth or water – Adds body and helps everything simmer into harmony.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A balanced herb blend that boosts overall flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika – Sweet and smoky, a nostalgic flavor booster.
Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust based on your broth and personal preference.
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – For sautéing the onion and garlic.

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup bell peppers (diced) – Adds color and a mild sweetness.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – If you like a touch of heat.
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella – Sprinkle on top before serving for cheesy comfort.
Fresh parsley (chopped) – A fresh garnish that brightens the whole dish.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened and slightly translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with your spoon or spatula. Continue cooking until it’s fully browned and no longer pink—about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid a greasy texture.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste (if using), Italian seasoning, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for 5–10 minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Pasta

Pour in the beef broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a light boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and stir well. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot loosely, and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 5: Final Taste and Texture Check

Give everything a good stir, taste the goulash, and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water. If you like a cheesy finish, stir in some shredded cheddar or sprinkle it on top just before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once done, turn off the heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy every cozy, nostalgic bite of Grandma’s Goulash!

Notes

One-pot advantage: This recipe is perfect for those nights when you don’t want to wash a pile of dishes. Everything simmers together beautifully in a single pot.
Flavor depth tip: For a deeper, more savory flavor, let the sauce simmer an extra 10–15 minutes before adding the pasta. It allows the tomato and spice flavors to concentrate.
Make it your own: Grandma’s Goulash is a forgiving recipe. You can easily swap the beef for ground turkey, add mushrooms, sneak in spinach, or throw in some chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist.
Texture preference: If you like your pasta extra soft, cook it directly in the sauce. Prefer it with a bite? Boil it separately and stir in just before serving.
Cheese lovers: This dish is delicious with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan on top just before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the pasta: Macaroni can turn mushy if left simmering too long in the sauce. Keep an eye on it once added, and stir occasionally.
Not draining beef: If you’re using regular ground beef, don’t forget to drain the grease. Too much fat can make the dish overly greasy and weigh down the flavor.
Skipping the taste test: Always taste before serving. Sometimes just a pinch more salt or a dash of vinegar (or sugar) can brighten everything up.
Too much liquid: Be careful not to overdo the broth. The sauce should be hearty, not soupy. If needed, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce.
Cooking on high heat: Simmering too aggressively can dry out the beef and break down the pasta too quickly. A low, gentle simmer is best.
Forgetting seasoning layers: Adding seasoning at each stage—onion, beef, sauce—helps build depth and keeps the final dish from tasting flat.

What to Serve With Grandma’s Goulash?

Grandma’s Goulash is a full, satisfying meal on its own—but pairing it with a few well-chosen sides can really round out the experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just elevating your weeknight dinner, these sides add freshness, texture, or a bit of indulgence to balance the rich, savory base of the goulash.

8 Recommendations:

Garlic Bread
Crisp, buttery, and packed with garlicky flavor, it’s the perfect companion to mop up that delicious tomato sauce.
Garden Salad
A light salad with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing crunch that balances the warmth of the dish.
Steamed Green Beans
Simply seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of butter—green beans bring a bright, crisp contrast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These caramelized veggies offer earthy depth and a little bitterness that pairs beautifully with the rich meat sauce.
Buttered Corn on the Cob
Sweet and juicy corn offers a nostalgic, summery vibe alongside the comfort of the goulash.
Cheesy Garlic Knots
If you’re a carb lover, these soft, cheesy bites are a satisfying side that doubles down on the cozy factor.
Coleslaw
A chilled, crunchy slaw with a creamy or vinegar-based dressing brings tang and balance to every bite.
Pickled Vegetables
A jar of pickles or homemade pickled onions and carrots can cut through the richness with a zesty kick.

Storage Instructions

Grandma’s Goulash stores wonderfully, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep or leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Storing:

Refrigerator: Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze it for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay them flat for space-saving). It’ll last up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating:

Microwave: Heat in 60-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened.
Stovetop: Reheat in a covered skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of liquid if needed to prevent sticking.

Note: If frozen, allow to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

Note: Nutritional values can vary slightly depending on ingredients and any modifications.

Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 580mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

This makes for a balanced, satisfying meal with a good mix of macronutrients—especially when paired with a veggie side!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Absolutely. Small pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or penne work great. Just be mindful of cooking times—some shapes may take a bit longer to become tender.

2. Can I make Grandma’s Goulash ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this dish tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready.

3. What’s the best meat substitute for a vegetarian version?

You can use plant-based ground “meat” alternatives, or even lentils or chopped mushrooms. Just season well and cook as you would the ground beef.

4. How do I keep the pasta from overcooking?

Simmer gently and check it a minute or two before the package’s cook time. If you’re planning to reheat later, slightly undercook the pasta so it stays firm.

5. Can I make it spicier?

Definitely! Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even a diced jalapeño during the onion phase for a kick of heat.

6. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes—it’s mild, saucy, and full of familiar ingredients. For picky eaters, you can omit chunky veggies or blend the sauce for a smoother texture.

7. What if I don’t have tomato paste?

You can skip it or add a tablespoon of ketchup or extra tomato sauce. Tomato paste just deepens the flavor but isn’t essential.

8. Can I double this recipe?

Totally. Just make sure your pot is large enough to handle the volume, and adjust simmer times slightly as needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Goulash is more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic bowl of love. With its hearty ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich tomato sauce, it delivers all the warmth of a homemade classic in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers comfort, flexibility, and full-on flavor with minimal effort.

Its simplicity makes it approachable for beginners, while its comforting taste earns a spot on any seasoned cook’s regular rotation. From weeknight dinners to cozy leftovers, Grandma’s Goulash is a timeless recipe that brings joy to the table again and again.