Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe

Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe is a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This easy-to-make meal brings families together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this goulash is a favorite among kids and adults alike. Whether you are serving it at home or taking it to a potluck, Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making it a hit for everyone at the dinner table.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Filling and Satisfying: A hearty combination of protein, carbs, and cheese ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precision in ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

The Easy Goulash Recipe is hot, savory, and incredibly filling – and there’s nothing in it that the average kid wouldn’t be happy to eat.

For the Base

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 2 15oz cans diced tomatoes
• 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 15oz can tomato sauce

For Flavoring

• 1 TB dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 large bay leaves

For Pasta and Cheese

• 2 cups dry elbow noodles
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

How to Make Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating your large pot over medium-high heat.
1. Add the ground beef to the pot.
2. Sprinkle with seasoned salt.
3. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once the meat is browned:
1. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic.
2. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Next, it’s time to build your sauce:
1. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, tomato sauce, dried parsley, dried oregano, and bay leaves.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate Noodles

Bring everything to a gentle boil:
1. Once boiling, stir in dry elbow noodles.
2. Reduce heat to low; cover with a lid and simmer for about 20 minutes until noodles are tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

After the noodles are cooked:
1. Remove bay leaves from the pot.
2. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted throughout.
3. Season with kosher salt and pepper according to taste.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful dish! Enjoy every bite of Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe with family or friends!

How to Serve Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe

Serving Grandma’s Easy Goulash is a delightful experience, as it brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to suit different occasions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add fresh basil leaves to enhance the flavor profile.

Paired with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy contrast.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.

As a Leftover Delight

• Next-Day Lunch: Reheat portions for an easy, hearty lunch option that retains its deliciousness.
• Freezer Meal: Store leftovers in an airtight container for a quick meal later.

How to Perfect Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe

Perfecting Grandma’s Easy Goulash requires attention to detail and some thoughtful tips. These simple strategies will elevate your dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings to taste; adding more salt or pepper can enhance flavors.
• Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes Variety: Experiment with different types of diced tomatoes, like fire-roasted, for added depth.
• Al Dente Noodles: Cook elbow noodles just until al dente before mixing them in; they will absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
• Extra Cheese: For a cheesy twist, consider mixing in extra shredded sharp cheddar into the goulash before serving.
• Slow Cooker Option: For convenience, use a slow cooker; it allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.

Best Side Dishes for Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe

Complementing your goulash with the right side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options that pair well with this warm dish.

1. Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens adds freshness and crunch to balance the richness of goulash.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious side that complements the savory flavors.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast and adds texture to your plate.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for dipping into the goulash sauce while providing a comforting touch.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the meaty sauce.
6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf can soak up the flavors of goulash while offering a delightful base.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your goulash turns out perfectly.

• Bold seasoning choices: Not adjusting the seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or herbs.
• Bold cooking time miscalculations: Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy. Follow the package instructions and add them to the pot at the right time.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using incorrect substitutes might change the flavor profile. Stick to the recommended ingredients for the best results.
• Bold skipping browning meat: Failing to brown the ground beef properly can result in less flavor. Take time to brown it well before adding other ingredients.
• Bold ignoring simmer time: Rushing through the simmering stage can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Allow enough time for all ingredients to meld together.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer goulash to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add goulash to a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe take to prepare?

This recipe takes approximately 50 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Can I customize Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition or swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Is Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! This goulash is hearty and flavorful, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Easy Goulash Recipe is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether by adding vegetables or changing up proteins. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a classic meal that’s perfect for any occasion!