Description
This Irresistible Grandma’s Goulash is a comforting one-pot meal perfect for cozy nights. Featuring lean ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, savory diced tomatoes, and a blend of Italian seasoning, this hearty dish is both flavorful and simple to prepare in under 35 minutes. Rich yet easy, it’s a classic family favorite spiced to perfection and optionally topped with melted shredded cheese for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
Base and Seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes (preferably with herbs)
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or egg noodles
Optional Topping
- Shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced bell peppers, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Brown Ground Beef: Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet. Add the lean ground beef and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, mixing everything together.
- Add Broth and Pasta, Simmer: Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth and add the uncooked elbow macaroni or egg noodles. Stir well to combine all ingredients and prevent the pasta from clumping. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Season and Optionally Top: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and allow it to melt before serving.
- Serve Warm: Serve the goulash hot, enjoying the rich, comforting flavors of this classic homemade dish.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish less greasy and healthier.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- You can customize the type of pasta; egg noodles provide a more traditional texture.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a slight spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
