Grandma’s Goulash is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce seasoned with garlic and herbs. This nostalgic one-pot meal brings back cozy family dinners and the smell of something delicious simmering on the stove. It’s the kind of meal that warms both the stomach and the heart, making it a timeless classic.

The beauty of Grandma’s Goulash is its simplicity and ability to feed a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or need a hearty dish for a potluck, this goulash never disappoints. Plus, it’s easy to customize with vegetables or different pasta shapes, letting you make it your own while keeping the old-fashioned charm.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Goulash

You’ll love Grandma’s Goulash because it’s a fuss-free meal packed with flavor. The ground beef is savory and juicy, the macaroni soaks up the tangy tomato sauce, and a hint of garlic and herbs ties it all together. It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and comes together in under an hour. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making leftovers a treat.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Grandma’s Goulash, you’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for browning the beef and simmering the sauce. A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, and a sharp knife makes prepping onions or garlic a breeze. A colander helps drain any excess fat from the beef, keeping the dish from becoming greasy. Each tool plays its part in ensuring a smooth cooking process and a delicious final result.

Ingredients for the Grandma’s Goulash

Ground beef: The heart of the dish, providing rich, savory flavor.
Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds the sauce perfectly.
Onions: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic: Brings aromatic, savory notes that elevate the sauce.
Canned tomatoes: Forms the robust, tangy base of the sauce.
Tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and enhances the tomato flavor.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to give that homey, old-fashioned taste.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Parsley (optional): For a fresh pop of color and brightness at the end.

How To Make the Grandma’s Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and drain excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni

While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Fold the cooked macaroni into the meat sauce. Let it cook together for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Serving and Storing Grandma’s Goulash

Serve Grandma’s Goulash hot, straight from the pot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a handful of shredded cheese for extra indulgence. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For leftovers, let the goulash cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.