Name: Grandma's Classic Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1½ cups crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 3 cups beef broth; 1½ tsp sweet paprika; ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 bay leaf; Optional: 1 cup elbow macaroni, ½ cup frozen peas, chopped fresh parsley

Few dishes evoke the warmth of family gatherings and the coziness of home like Grandma’s Classic Goulash. This rich, hearty stew brings together tender ground beef, vibrant root vegetables, and robust tomato flavor, all simmered slowly to create a comforting one-pot meal. Each spoonful is packed with nostalgic flavor, reminiscent of the love and care passed down through generations.

This goulash is not just a meal—it’s a memory in a bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to guests with crusty bread, it delivers the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s filling, satisfying, and easy to make in big batches, which makes it perfect for families or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Classic Goulash Recipe

Timeless Flavor: Inspired by traditional Hungarian-American recipes, this goulash is rich, earthy, and deliciously savory.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor—just the way grandma liked it.
Customizable: Use what you have on hand—beef, turkey, or even a meat substitute. It welcomes your personal twist.
Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients combine to make a deeply satisfying dish.
Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for leftovers or make-ahead meals.
Kid-Approved: The mild flavors and soft textures make it a favorite across all ages.
Nutritious & Hearty: With protein, vegetables, and fiber, it’s a balanced meal in one bowl.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Grandma’s Classic Goulash Recipe

Crafting a soul-warming pot of Grandma’s Classic Goulash doesn’t require a fancy kitchen setup, but having the right tools can make all the difference in flavor, texture, and ease. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each item matters.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: The heart of this recipe. It ensures even heat distribution, allowing the ingredients to simmer slowly and develop rich depth.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, and for gently breaking up ground beef during browning.
Chef’s Knife: Precision slicing of onions, carrots, potatoes, and garlic is crucial. A sharp chef’s knife makes prep efficient and clean.
Cutting Board: Opt for a sturdy, non-slip board to keep prep safe and stable.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Consistency is key for flavor, so measure your spices and liquids accurately.
Colander: If using canned beans or pasta (optional additions), a good rinse keeps the broth from getting cloudy.
Ladle: For neat serving straight from the pot into bowls.

Preparation Tips

Mise en Place is Key: Chop all vegetables before turning on the stove. It keeps the cooking process smooth and stress-free.
Use Medium Heat for Browning: Searing the ground beef at a steady medium heat brings out a caramelized flavor without drying it out.
Deglaze with Broth or Tomatoes: After browning the meat, pour a splash of broth or crushed tomatoes into the pan and scrape the bottom. This releases flavor-packed browned bits known as “fond”.
Simmer Slowly: Once everything is in the pot, let it simmer gently. Low and slow builds deep, layered flavor.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually. A little salt, paprika, or pepper at a time ensures you don’t overdo it.
Add Pasta or Beans Late: If including either, stir them in during the last 10–15 minutes to avoid mushiness.
Fresh Herbs Last: If using parsley or fresh basil, add just before serving for brightness and color.

Ingredients for This Grandma’s Classic Goulash Recipe

This recipe brings together humble pantry staples and fresh vegetables to create a hearty, flavorful goulash your family will request again and again. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic dish:

Protein & Base:

1½ lbs ground beef – the foundation of the dish; choose 80/20 for balanced flavor and tenderness.
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing vegetables and beef.
1 large yellow onion, diced – adds natural sweetness and depth.
3 garlic cloves, minced – enhances savory notes.

Vegetables:

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced – for sweetness and color.
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced – adds body and makes it more filling.
1 green bell pepper, diced – brings mild bitterness and crunch.
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) – juicy and tangy, essential for the sauce.
1½ cups crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce – creates a rich, thick broth.

Seasonings & Liquids:

3 cups beef broth – deepens the flavor and provides the simmering base.
1½ teaspoons sweet paprika – the signature spice that gives goulash its character.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika – optional, for a smoky undertone.
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf – simmered in for subtle aromatic depth.

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup elbow macaroni or small pasta – for a heartier version (add toward the end).
½ cup frozen peas – for color and slight sweetness.
Chopped fresh parsley – for garnish.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This base layer builds the foundation of flavor for your goulash.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink—about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary, but leave a small amount for flavor.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper. Stir well to coat with the beef mixture. Let them cook for 5 minutes to begin softening and absorbing the beef flavors.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce), and beef broth. Stir thoroughly to combine. Add the sweet paprika, smoked paprika (if using), oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Develop Flavor

Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let the goulash simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Optional Add-Ins

If you’re adding pasta or peas, do so in the last 10–12 minutes of cooking. Ensure pasta is cooked al dente and peas are warmed through. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste the goulash and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or paprika as needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh finish.

Notes

Customize the Meat: Ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based alternatives can easily be substituted for beef.
Broth Boost: For an even richer flavor, consider using a combination of beef broth and a splash of red wine.
Texture Preference: If you like your goulash soupier, increase the broth by an additional cup. For thicker, stew-like consistency, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
Pasta Tip: If adding pasta, cook it separately and mix it in before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy in leftovers.
Spice Control: If making it kid-friendly, keep the paprika sweet and omit smoked or spicy versions.
Freezer Friendly: Let the goulash cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. It reheats beautifully.
Make Ahead: This dish actually tastes better the next day once the flavors have fully melded.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Vegetables: Simmering too long at high heat can turn carrots and potatoes to mush. Stick to low, slow heat and check with a fork.
Skipping the Browning Step: Browning the meat adds caramelization and depth. Don’t rush it or skip it.
Adding All Ingredients at Once: Layering flavors step by step ensures better depth—don’t toss everything into the pot too early.
Over-salting Too Soon: Broth and tomatoes may already have salt; taste before adding more.
Not Stirring Occasionally: Letting the bottom stick can create burnt spots. Stir occasionally during the simmer.
Using Watery Tomatoes: If your diced tomatoes are very watery, drain them slightly or simmer longer uncovered.
Forgetting the Bay Leaf: It might seem minor, but it adds aromatic warmth. Just don’t forget to remove it before serving.
Rushing the Simmer Time: Flavors develop over time—avoid cutting the simmer short.

What to Serve With Grandma’s Classic Goulash?

Goulash is a wonderfully hearty dish on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the entire meal. Whether you’re aiming for comfort, contrast, or tradition, these complementary sides will round out your table beautifully.

8 Recommendations

Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast
Perfect for soaking up every drop of that rich tomato-based broth. A rustic sourdough or crunchy garlic bread makes the ideal partner.
Cucumber Salad (Uborkasaláta)
A Hungarian classic—sliced cucumbers with vinegar, sugar, and a touch of sour cream. Its refreshing acidity contrasts beautifully with the warm, savory goulash.
Buttered Egg Noodles
Especially if you opt to skip pasta in the goulash itself, serving it over a bed of noodles adds heartiness and a silky texture.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Their slightly bitter bite pairs well with the goulash’s richness, and they bring a crispy texture to the plate.
Steamed Green Beans with Lemon Zest
Simple and bright, green beans help lighten the meal without stealing the spotlight.
Sour Cream & Chives
A small dollop of sour cream on top of your bowl can add tang and creaminess, while chives give a fresh bite.
Pickled Vegetables
A side of tangy pickled beets, onions, or mixed veggies provides a flavorful punch and cuts through the stew’s richness.
Simple Green Salad
Tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, it adds color, crunch, and brightness to your plate—a great balance to the cozy main dish.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures that Grandma’s Classic Goulash stays just as delicious the next day—or even weeks later. Here’s how to store, reheat, and freeze it like a pro:

Refrigeration:

Storage Time: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Storage Method: Allow the goulash to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much after chilling.

Freezing:

Best For: Long-term storage or meal prep.
Freeze Time: Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Method: Portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label with the date.
Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Tip:

If you’ve added pasta, consider freezing the goulash without it, as pasta tends to become mushy after freezing. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Please note that values may vary slightly based on exact ingredient brands and quantities used, especially with optional add-ins like pasta or peas.

Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: ~370 kcal
Protein: ~24g
Carbohydrates: ~28g
Fat: ~18g
Saturated Fat: ~6g
Cholesterol: ~70mg
Fiber: ~5g
Sugars: ~6g
Sodium: ~640mg
Vitamin A: 80% DV
Vitamin C: 45% DV
Iron: 20% DV
Calcium: 6% DV

This hearty goulash is high in protein and packed with vitamins from the vegetables, making it both comforting and nourishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Grandma’s Classic Goulash in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. It’s an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or entertaining.

2. What kind of beef works best?

Ground beef with 80/20 fat content is ideal—it offers great flavor without being overly greasy. Leaner blends can work, but you might sacrifice some richness.

3. Can I make this goulash gluten-free?

Yes! Skip the pasta or use gluten-free noodles. Also, double-check that your beef broth and canned goods are certified gluten-free.

4. Is it okay to use other meats or a vegetarian option?

Definitely. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles all work well. The key is browning for flavor, regardless of the protein.

5. What’s the difference between Hungarian goulash and American goulash?

Hungarian goulash is often a soup or stew with chunks of beef, heavy on paprika. American-style, like this one, uses ground beef, tomatoes, and often includes pasta.

6. Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add pasta near the end, or cook it separately.

7. How do I thicken or thin the goulash?

To thicken, simmer uncovered to reduce liquid. To thin, add more broth or tomato sauce until you reach your desired consistency.

8. What herbs can I use instead of dried oregano and basil?

Fresh parsley, thyme, or marjoram can substitute beautifully. Just double the amount if using fresh instead of dried.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Classic Goulash is more than just a dish—it’s a hug in a bowl. It captures the essence of traditional comfort food with every spoonful, bringing together rich flavors, tender veggies, and hearty meat in a single pot. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or craving nostalgia, this goulash is a reliable go-to.