Description
Step into the cozy warmth of nostalgic kitchens with Grandma’s Goulash, a timeless comfort food that fills the home with irresistible aromas and flavors. This cherished recipe combines simple ingredients with effortless preparation to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. With its savory blend of ground beef, tender macaroni noodles, and rich tomato broth, this goulash promises to delight taste buds and evoke fond memories with every comforting spoonful.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup sweet onions, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1 ½ tsp celery salt
1 ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 cups macaroni noodles, uncooked
2 ½ cups tomato juice
2 cups water
2 beef bouillon cubes
Dash of pepper
Green onions, sliced (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onions are tender.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in water to create a flavorful broth. Pour the broth into the skillet, stirring well to incorporate.
- Next, add the tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, and a dash of pepper to the skillet. Stir the mixture thoroughly and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Allow the goulash to simmer for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- After 20 minutes, add the uncooked macaroni noodles to the skillet. Cover once again and continue to simmer the goulash on medium-low heat for an additional 20 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir the mixture frequently to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- Once the noodles are cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from heat. If desired, garnish the goulash with sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Grandma’s Goulash hot, spooned generously into bowls for a comforting meal that’s sure to warm both body and soul.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: When serving Grandma’s Goulash, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For added indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over each serving for an extra layer of richness. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings with friends.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Grandma’s Goulash is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and satisfying meal anytime hunger strikes.
- Freezing Instructions: To extend the shelf life of your goulash, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
- Flavor Enhancement: The flavors of Grandma’s Goulash tend to deepen and develop over time, making it even more delicious as leftovers. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of beef broth or tomato juice when reheating to revive the rich taste of the dish.
- Customization Options: Feel free to customize Grandma’s Goulash to suit your taste preferences. You can add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition. Additionally, you can adjust the seasoning levels to your liking by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs such as thyme or oregano.
