Grandma’s Goulash Hearty Beef (Print)

A nostalgic one-pot meal with beef, tomato sauce, and macaroni, perfect for family suppers and meal prep.

# Ingredients:

→ For the Goulash

01 - 450 grams ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, finely diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
05 - 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
06 - 2 cups beef broth
07 - 1.5 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
08 - 1 teaspoon paprika
09 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 - Salt, to taste
11 - Black pepper, to taste
12 - 1 bay leaf (optional)

→ For Serving (Optional)

13 - 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
14 - Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until thoroughly browned. Drain any excess grease.
02 - Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring, until the onion is softened and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
03 - Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Incorporate the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using, add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
04 - Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
05 - Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover again and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and tender.
06 - Remove and discard the bay leaf (if used). Taste the goulash and adjust seasonings as needed. If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted for a creamy texture.
07 - Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve the goulash warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have
  • Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day
  • Kid approved and adult satisfying comfort food
  • Budget friendly way to feed a crowd
02 -
  • This goulash doubles easily for larger crowds without adjusting cooking times
  • The dish thickens considerably as it cools so adjust liquid if needed
  • American goulash differs significantly from traditional Hungarian goulash
  • Perfect for hiding extra vegetables for picky eaters
  • Leftovers taste even better as flavors continue to meld overnight
03 -
  • For the richest flavor, use a cast iron Dutch oven which distributes heat evenly and helps develop a subtle fond on the bottom of the pot.
  • Always taste before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
  • Remember that flavors intensify overnight, so if making ahead, you might want to slightly under-season initially.
  • The pasta will continue absorbing liquid as it sits, so serve promptly or add extra broth when reheating leftovers.

Back