Grandma’s Goulash
Introduction
Grandma’s Goulash is a warm and comforting dish that many people cherish. This one-pot meal combines ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce, creating a hearty dinner that the whole family will love. It’s a recipe that not only fills your belly but also brings back memories of home and family gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Grandma’s Goulash is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Finally, this dish is versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your taste and serve it for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a satisfying meal, this recipe has got you covered.
How to Make Grandma’s Goulash
Making Grandma’s Goulash is straightforward. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1½ cups beef broth or water
- 1½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat once you’re done.
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté until the onion becomes translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (including their juices), beef broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring this tasty mixture to a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened up nicely.
- Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf at the end! If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top and cover until it melts.
- Serve hot, and feel free to garnish with extra cheese or some fresh herbs if you like.
How to Serve Grandma’s Goulash
Grandma’s Goulash is best served hot right from the pot. You can serve it in bowls and top it with extra cheese or fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Grandma’s Goulash
If you have leftovers, store Grandma’s Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. When you want to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warm.
Tips to Make Grandma’s Goulash
- For a spicier version, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced bell peppers.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables, like peas or corn, for extra nutrition.
Variation
One popular variation of Grandma’s Goulash is to swap out elbow macaroni for any other pasta shape you prefer. You can also play around with the spices, adding cumin or paprika for different flavors.
FAQs
Can I make Grandma’s Goulash ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze Grandma’s Goulash?
Absolutely! You can freeze the goulash in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Is there a vegetarian version of Grandma’s Goulash?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
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