Grandma’s Goulash

Published: May 1, 2025

by Sarah Connor

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There’s something magical about a steaming pot of Grandma’s Goulash that fills the air with nostalgia. The rich aroma of seasoned beef mingling with sweet bell peppers and tomatoes creates an irresistible invitation to gather around the dinner table. savory BBQ beef tacos This dish is not merely a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is comfort food that warms your soul. For more inspiration, check out this Corned Beef and Cabbage recipe recipe.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make it together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
Can I freeze leftover goulash?
How can I make Grandma’s Goulash spicier?
📖 Recipe Card

Picture this: you arrive home after a long day, and the tantalizing scent wafts through the house like a friendly ghost urging you toward the kitchen. The moment you take that first bite, the flavors dance on your tongue—savory, slightly sweet, and utterly satisfying. crispy homemade Greek fries Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, Grandma’s Goulash promises to steal the show and make your taste buds sing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This hearty goulash is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile bursts with savory goodness from the beef and spices
Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, this dish looks great on any table
It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or even a comforting lunch leftover

I remember the first time I made Grandma’s Goulash for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took their first bite. delicious one pot taco rice They couldn’t believe something so delicious was also so simple to make!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease but still packed with flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are ideal for that aromatic kick that lifts the entire dish.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green peppers adds color and sweetness; choose firm ones.
Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for juiciness; San Marzano tomatoes work wonders here.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni or any small pasta shape holds sauce beautifully; cook until al dente.
Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control salt levels while enhancing flavor complexity.
Spices: Paprika, oregano, and bay leaves create a savory depth; adjust according to taste.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking process to build flavor layers.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping your onion and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince your garlic cloves; this will ensure maximum flavor release during cooking.

Sautéing Time!: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula until it resembles crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add Veggies Galore!: Toss in your chopped onion and bell peppers into the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté until onions turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Flavor Explosion!: Stir in minced garlic along with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let everything mingle for about 1 minute until aromatic—a sure sign it’s time for more ingredients.

The Tomato Tango!: Pour in canned tomatoes along with their juices and beef broth. Stir well to combine all those tasty bits stuck at the bottom of the pan—it’s pure gold!

Pasta Perfection!: Add your uncooked pasta directly into the skillet mixture. Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes or until pasta is tender while occasionally stirring.

Now you’ve crafted a delightful bowl of Grandma’s Goulash! It’s time to serve up generous portions topped with fresh parsley or grated cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every hearty spoonful while cherishing those warm memories surrounding this beloved dish! For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Spaghetti recipe.

You Must Know

Grandma’s Goulash is not just comfort food; it’s a hug in a bowl
The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone wonder what’s cooking
This dish is hearty, easy to make, and a family favorite that brings smiles at every meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef in a large pot. Then, sauté the onions and garlic before adding the rest of the ingredients. This sequence ensures maximum flavor infusion and prevents your goulash from turning into a soggy mess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also spice things up with paprika or cayenne for an extra kick. Personalizing your goulash makes it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through while stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Start with high-quality beef for richer flavor
Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as needed
If using pasta, cook it al dente separately to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings where my grandmother would serve her famous goulash, leaving everyone asking for seconds—until we realized there was no room left!

FAQ

What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?

You can substitute any pasta shape you have on hand for Grandma’s Goulash. hearty smoked sausage pasta.

Can I freeze leftover goulash?

Yes, you can freeze goulash for up to three months in an airtight container.

How can I make Grandma’s Goulash spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an exciting spicy twist!

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