Homemade Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Step into the warmth of Grandma’s kitchen with this nostalgic recipe for Grandma’s Goulash. A true family favorite, this hearty one-pot meal brings together tender ground beef, aromatic onions, and a flavorful medley of herbs and spices. As the savory scent wafts through the kitchen, you can almost hear the echoes of laughter and love that have seasoned this dish for generations.

Grandma’s Goulash is not just a recipe; it’s a story of tradition and comfort that transcends time. With its budget-friendly ingredients and easy cleanup, this dish is a staple for busy weeknights or when you crave a taste of home. The secret lies in the Hungarian sweet paprika, a touch of magic that elevates this simple goulash to a truly unforgettable experience. So, grab a spoon and savor the flavors that have stood the test of time in Grandma’s kitchen.

Quick Benefits

• Budget-friendly using everyday ingredients
• Ready in under 45 minutes for weeknight ease
• One-pot meal means minimal cleanup
• Versatile base for adding your favorite vegetables

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Hungarian Goulash Recipe Recipe

• Budget-friendly using everyday ingredients: Perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
• Ready in under 45 minutes for weeknight ease: Quick and easy to whip up after a long day at work.
• One-pot meal means minimal cleanup: Less time washing dishes and more time enjoying a delicious meal.
• Versatile base for adding your favorite vegetables: Customize it with your preferred veggies to amp up the nutrition.
• Kid-approved comfort food that adults equally enjoy: A family-friendly dish that brings everyone to the table.
• Perfect make-ahead meal that actually improves overnight: Ideal for meal prep or busy days when you want a ready-to-eat meal.
• Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months: Make a big batch and save some for later for a convenient meal option.
• Contains complete protein and complex carbohydrates: A balanced meal that will keep you satisfied and energized.
• Easy to double for larger families or gatherings: Scale up the recipe effortlessly for a crowd-pleasing dish.
• Paprika is the secret hero in this dish: Adds warmth and depth of flavor, making this goulash truly memorable.
• Welcomes personalization based on your family preferences: Get creative with ingredients to tailor the dish to your taste.
• American goulash differs significantly from traditional Hungarian goulash: Learn about the history and heritage behind this comforting dish.
• Tips for cooking perfection: Handy tips to ensure your goulash turns out flavorful and delicious every time.
• Adaptable for dietary preferences: Easily modify the recipe to suit vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
• Pair with complementary sides: Suggestions for side dishes to elevate your dining experience with Grandma’s Goulash.

Ingredients for Homemade Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Main Ingredients

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 400g canned diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 300ml tomato sauce
• 250g elbow macaroni
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 500ml beef broth
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 500g ground beef

Pro Tips for Homemade Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To deepen the flavors, allow the sauce to simmer before adding the pasta. This extra cooking time will help the ingredients meld together for a more robust taste.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or rotini for a fun twist on the classic recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the pasta shape you choose.

Pro Tip 3: For a healthier version, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner protein option. You can also sneak in extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value of Grandma’s Goulash.

How to Make Homemade Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Step 02

Cook ground beef in a pot until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Step 03

Combine canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth in a pot. Stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

Step 4: Step 04

Simmer the mixture, then reduce heat, cover, and cook gently for 10 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 5: Step 05

Place the elbow macaroni in the pot, stir to ensure it is covered in liquid. Cook on medium-low heat, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes until macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Step 06

Adjust seasonings if needed, then let the dish rest off the heat for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Tips

To store Grandma’s Goulash, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Due to the pasta’s absorbent nature, the consistency may thicken during storage. To rejuvenate the dish when reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water and gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

For longer storage, Grandma’s Goulash freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When freezing, ensure the dish is fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat frozen goulash, gently warm it on the stove and add additional broth if needed to reach the desired consistency. Consider freezing individual portions for convenient single servings when craving a comforting meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

When making Grandma’s Goulash, feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with penne, shells, or rotini if you prefer a different pasta shape. Just be mindful of the cook time as it may vary.

For a healthier version of this comforting dish, consider swapping the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value of the meal.

If you’re looking to make a vegetarian or vegan version of Grandma’s Goulash, simply replace the ground beef with plant-based protein or mushrooms and switch the beef broth for vegetable broth. This adaptation will retain the heartiness and flavor of the dish while catering to dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grandma’s Goulash in individual bread bowls for a cozy and comforting presentation. Simply hollow out small bread loaves, ladle the goulash into each bowl, and top with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for a rustic and delicious meal.

For a fun twist, transform Grandma’s Goulash into a hearty pasta bake. Mix the goulash with cooked pasta, layer it in a baking dish with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. This baked version adds a crispy cheese crust and new textures to the beloved classic dish.

FAQs for Homemade Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta in Grandma’s Goulash?

Absolutely! Swap elbow macaroni for penne, shells, or rotini. Check the cook time since it might differ with each type.

How can I make Grandma’s Goulash healthier?

For a healthier twist, switch out the beef for ground chicken or turkey. Toss in extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to add more nutrients.

Can I make Grandma’s Goulash vegetarian or vegan?

Of course! Use plant-based protein or mushrooms instead of beef, and swap the beef broth for vegetable broth.

Can I freeze Grandma’s Goulash for later?

Sure! Cool it fully, seal it in a tight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove and add broth if it’s too thick.

Conclusion

As you gather your ingredients to recreate Grandma’s Goulash, remember that this recipe is not just about cooking a meal; it’s about embracing a tradition, a connection to the past that warms your heart as much as it fills your belly. The beauty of Grandma’s Goulash lies not only in its simplicity and rich flavors but also in the memories and stories it carries with each serving.

So, as you simmer the beef, macaroni, and aromatic spices together, take a moment to savor the experience and the love that goes into making this classic dish. Let the comforting aroma fill your kitchen and transport you back to simpler times, to the heart of family gatherings and shared meals. Grandma’s Goulash is more than just a recipe; it’s a legacy of love and nourishment that you can now pass on to your loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful, and may it bring you the same joy and warmth that it has brought to generations before you.