There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of grandma’s goulash. Imagine the aroma wafting through the kitchen, filling every corner with hints of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and a medley of spices that promise warmth and happiness. savory mini quiche creamy baked potato salad Each hearty bite is like a warm hug for your soul, the kind that makes you feel right at home regardless of where you are. dark chocolate nut bars.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is grandma’s goulash made of?
- Can I freeze grandma’s goulash?
- How long does grandma’s goulash last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a cherished memory. I still remember those chilly Sunday afternoons when my grandma would whip up her famous goulash. Family gathered around the table, laughter echoing through the air, and everyone eagerly waiting to dive into that bubbling pot of goodness. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even when you just need a little comfort food therapy. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience! For more inspiration, check out this easy instant pot beef stew recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grandma’s goulash is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- With layers of rich flavors, it’s a comforting dish everyone will crave
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite sides!
I remember one time my cousin tried to sneak in extra cheese while grandma wasn’t looking—let’s just say her “secret ingredient” didn’t go unnoticed!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: A pound of lean ground beef works best for a flavorful base without too much grease.
Onion: Use a medium onion for sweetness; sauté until translucent and aromatic.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; about two cloves should do the trick!
Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only taste great but also brighten up the dish.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add juicy texture; look for ones without added sugar.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional but feel free to use any pasta shape on hand.
Spices: Paprika, oregano, and salt bring everything together—don’t skip these essentials!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Aromatics: Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and then toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the onions turn golden brown—this should take about 5 minutes.
Browning the Beef: Next, add your ground beef to the pot. Break it apart using a spatula as it cooks until browned all over—this usually takes around 6-8 minutes. You’ll want that sizzle sound; it means flavor!
Add in Your Veggies: Once the beef is browned, stir in diced bell peppers. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly and release their sweet aroma.
Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in your canned tomatoes along with beef broth. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for extra flavor—no one likes leaving behind tasty morsels!
Add Pasta and Seasonings: Stir in elbow macaroni along with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes or until pasta is tender while occasionally stirring.
Finishing Touches!: Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary before serving hot! Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for an extra touch of freshness.
Now you have delicious grandma’s goulash ready to serve! Enjoy this culinary hug from yesteryears that brings everyone together around the table again! For more inspiration, check out this creamy sausage rigatoni recipe.
You Must Know
- Grandma’s goulash is a comforting dish that fills your home with delightful aromas
- The blend of spices and hearty ingredients creates a meal that warms both the stomach and the soul
- It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat first, then add veggies to soften while simmering the pasta separately for a seamless cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey, or toss in some diced bell peppers for extra crunch. Customize it to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat to preserve flavor and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, let the goulash sit overnight before serving; it only gets better!
- Use fresh herbs to brighten the dish, and don’t forget to taste as you cook!
Sometimes, I serve this dish at potlucks, and it always disappears quickly—everyone has their own variations but loves grandma’s classic recipe. sweet peach cobbler parfait.
FAQ
What is grandma’s goulash made of?
Grandma’s goulash typically includes ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and spices.
Can I freeze grandma’s goulash?
Yes! Freeze it in portions for easy meals later on.
How long does grandma’s goulash last in the fridge?
It lasts about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
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📖 Recipe Card
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Delicious Grandma’s Goulash
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 individuals 1x
Description
Experience the comforting warmth of Grandma’s goulash, a nostalgic dish that brings family together around the dinner table. This hearty one-pot meal features tender ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, each bite is a hug for your soul, evoking cherished memories and filling your home with delightful aromas.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any colors)
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add 2 tbsp olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (6-8 minutes).
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Incorporate the canned tomatoes and beef broth, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Mix in the elbow macaroni along with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg