If you’re craving a bowl of pure comfort that tastes like a warm hug from your childhood, Grandma’s Goulash is just the dish. This recipe brings together juicy ground beef, tender noodles, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato base, all simmered together the classic way. Whether you grew up with this on the family table or you’re just discovering its magic, the blend of flavors in Grandma’s Goulash makes it an irresistible, all-in-one meal tailor-made for weeknights or nostalgia-filled weekends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Grandma’s Goulash is how each humble ingredient shines without any fuss. Every component lends something unique, from hearty texture to colorful pops and bursts of savoriness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Lean ground beef: The foundation of hearty flavor and protein; use 80/20 or leaner for best results.
Medium onion, chopped: Adds sweet, aromatic depth to every bite and softens beautifully when sautéed.
Garlic, minced: Three cloves give the dish that unmistakable robust fragrance and zing.
Bell peppers, diced: Use any color for a rainbow of sweetness and a pleasing crunch.
Can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), with juices: Brings tangy richness and just the right sauce consistency.
Elbow macaroni or egg noodles (2 cups): Both work; they soak up flavors and give the dish its crowd-pleasing heartiness.
Beef broth (2 cups, low-sodium): Deepens the savory base and lets the noodles cook up plump and flavorful.
Italian seasoning (1 tbsp): A simple way to add a bouquet of herby warmth.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all the flavors in the pot.
Shredded cheese (1 cup, optional): Melts creamy and gooey on top for a final luscious touch—try cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend.

How to Make Grandma’s Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and bell peppers, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant—about five minutes. This step builds a savory, sweet base that’s downright irresistible and sets the tone for the delicious layers to come.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Push the sautéed veggies to the side of the pan and add the ground beef. With a spatula, break up the meat as it cooks, letting it brown fully and soak up all those aromatic flavors. Cook for about six to eight minutes, until there’s no pink left and you have a tasty, crumbly mixture.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Stir in the minced garlic for just one minute—enough to unleash its bold, appetizing aroma. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes with all their juices. The garlic toasts lightly, and the tomatoes, rich and tangy, merge perfectly with the beef and vegetables for a sauce that’s both hearty and bright.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

It’s time for the magic. Pour in the beef broth and add your uncooked macaroni or egg noodles right into the skillet. Stir everything together, pop a lid on, and let it simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes. The noodles will soak up the beefy, tomatoey broth and become perfectly tender, marrying all the flavors into true Grandma’s Goulash goodness.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finally, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Give it all a good stir. If you’re feeling indulgent, scatter a cup of shredded cheese over the top just before serving, letting it melt into a golden, gooey finish. Scoop generous helpings into bowls—you’ve just made the kind of goulash that only Grandma could dream up.

How to Serve Grandma’s Goulash

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives brightens up Grandma’s Goulash and adds a final burst of color. For a cozy touch, try a dollop of sour cream or an extra handful of cheese on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with crusty buttered bread or a crisp green salad for balance. Steamed green beans or roasted vegetables also make wonderful companions that sop up every last bit of that savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family dinner, serve Grandma’s Goulash straight from the skillet at the center of the table. If you’re entertaining, try individual ramekins topped with cheese, then popped under the broiler for a bubbly crust. Leftovers also make an excellent filling for stuffed bell peppers or hollowed-out rolls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your Grandma’s Goulash completely before storing in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic meal-prep option or easy weeknight reheat.

Freezing

This goulash freezes like a dream. Just let it cool, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results—perfect for busy nights or surprise visitors.

Reheating

Warm leftovers on the stove over medium-low, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen if it’s thickened up. You can also microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through for even heating. The flavors often deepen and meld even more after a day or two!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! While classic Grandma’s Goulash stars ground beef, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner twist. Just note that the flavor will be a bit lighter, so you might want to adjust the seasonings to taste.

What’s the best pasta for Grandma’s Goulash?

Elbow macaroni is the traditional pick for that classic look and bite, but egg noodles hold up beautifully as well. You can also experiment with penne or rotini for extra texture—just keep an eye on the cooking time so they don’t overcook.

Can I make Grandma’s Goulash gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your broth and cheese are gluten-free too. Cook the pasta to just tender so it holds up well during reheating.

How can I make this goulash spicier?

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when you stir in the garlic and tomatoes. You can also top with sliced jalapeños or serve with your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Is this meal kid-friendly?

Very much so—Grandma’s Goulash is beloved by kids for its cheesy, tomatoey noodles. If picky eaters aren’t fans of bell peppers, you can dice them small or swap in veggies they prefer. The result is always a cozy, crowd-pleasing bowl.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t just another easy dinner—it’s a piece of nostalgia, a flavor-packed one-pot wonder, and proof that simple ingredients can make memorable meals. If you haven’t yet, give Grandma’s Goulash a try this week and taste for yourself why it’s been cherished for generations!