Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Why I Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty, soul-warming meal, this Hungarian goulash recipe is just what you need! Full of tender beef, savory spices, and a rich broth, this dish is one of my all-time favorites. Whether you make it in the slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stove, the flavors are unbeatable. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never disappoints!
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
2-2.5 hrs
Serves
4–6 people
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven (for stove-top method)
- Slow cooker (for slow cooker method)
- Instant Pot (for Instant Pot method)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into cubes)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp paprika (preferably Hungarian)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Method:
Step 1: Brown the meat:
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove meat and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add spices: Stir in the paprika and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 3: Finish and serve:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream!
Slow Cooker Method:
Follow steps 1-3 from the stove-top method.
Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onions, garlic, paprika, tomato paste, broth, carrots, and potatoes into a slow cooker. Add bay leaf.
Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheese toward the end for a creamy, cheesy version. I love using mozzarella or cheddar!
- Swap the meat: If you're looking for a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or throw in some fresh jalapeños if you like it hot.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and load up on veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version!
Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 400
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
Diet & Allergen Info:
- Contains gluten (if served with bread)
- Can be made gluten-free by serving with gluten-free bread
- Contains dairy if serving with sour cream
Storage Suggestions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It tastes even better the next day! To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
FAQ
Can I use beef stew cubes for this recipe?
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, celery, or even green beans for extra texture and flavor.
Related Recipes:
If you enjoy this authentic Hungarian goulash recipe, you’ll love my German Goulash Recipe for a lighter, broth-based version or try my Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
easy for a weeknight-friendly twist!
