Grandma’s goulash is more than just a meal; it’s a dish steeped in tradition, evoking the warmth and comfort of home. Every time the aroma of this hearty stew fills the kitchen, it’s as if Grandma herself is there, stirring the pot with love, ready to serve up a bowl of memories.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef – The heart of the dish, this adds a rich, savory base.
- 1 large onion, chopped – It gives a sweet, aromatic flavor as it caramelizes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that deep, unmistakable warmth.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced – Adds a slight crunch and a hint of bitterness.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni – The pasta, which absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – A smooth and tangy base that brings the dish together.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds texture and a burst of juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – A dash of umami that deepens the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – The spice that ties it all together, with a touch of warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – To add a creamy, melted finish on top.
Directions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the meat’s natural flavors. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Sauté these ingredients until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant. The bell pepper should soften slightly but still retain some crunch.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the browned beef to the skillet, and stir in the tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the paprika, allowing it to bloom in the sauce for a moment. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing the heat if necessary, and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, comforting sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: While the goulash simmers, cook the elbow macaroni in a separate pot according to the package instructions, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, and set it aside.
- Bring It All Together: Stir the cooked macaroni into the goulash, making sure every piece of pasta is coated in the savory sauce. At this point, you can either serve it as is or transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the goulash into bowls, serving it piping hot. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce can add a final touch of flavor, but the dish is perfect as is, with each bite offering a taste of nostalgia.
A Taste of Tradition:
Grandma’s goulash is a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, a symbol of family gatherings and hearty, home-cooked meals. It’s a dish that’s simple yet deeply satisfying, with every spoonful delivering a mix of tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce. The optional cheddar cheese topping adds a creamy finish, making it even more irresistible.
This goulash is more than just food; it’s a connection to the past, a comforting reminder of the love and care that went into every meal Grandma made. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or simply craving something warm and familiar, Grandma’s goulash is sure to fill your home with the same warmth and love that it did years ago.
