Beef Goulash: A Heartwarming Hungarian Classic

As the cool breeze sweeps through your kitchen, the rich aroma of spices envelops you like a warm hug. You can already picture the vibrant colors of a bubbling pot of Beef Goulash, the stew thickening and deepening in flavor with every simmer. This comforting dinner isn’t just a meal; it’s a cherished memory on your family table, evoking scenes of laughter, togetherness, and the vibrant heart of Hungarian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Goulash is more than just food; it’s a delightful experience filled with warmth and connection. Here’s why this homemade recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

Quick Family Meal: Packed with flavor yet easy to prepare—this dish can be ready to serve in under an hour.
Comforting and Cozy: Perfect for chilly evenings, its rich, hearty texture provides a sense of comfort that feels like a warm embrace.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vegetables and protein, it’s an indulgent treat that’s still a healthy option for the family.
Versatile: Perfect for weeknights or festive gatherings, this dish adapts well to various occasions, easily delighting guests and family alike.
Bonds Generations: Sharing this rich stew will spark stories and laughter, creating lasting memories around the table.

Ingredients with Notes

To make this flavorful Beef Goulash, you’ll need:

2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing, but you can use any oil you prefer.
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes: This gives the dish that melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can substitute with beef stew meat if needed.
1 large onion, chopped: Fresh onions offer a robust base flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth; don’t skimp on fresh garlic.
2 tablespoons sweet paprika: The star of this dish, creating that signature warmth.
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional): For an authentic touch that adds unique flavor.
1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds sweetness and fresh texture.
2 tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes): For juiciness and acidity; canned works in a pinch.
4 cups beef broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought will suffice.
2 medium carrots, sliced: Sweet and earthy, balancing the savory beef.
1-2 potatoes, peeled and cubed: They add heartiness to the stew; feel free to swap with sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

This recipe is wonderfully efficient, allowing you to gather around your table enjoying a meal that tastes like it simmered all day.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the onions and sauté until they soften and become translucent, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Push the onions aside and add the beef cubes in batches to brown. Ensure you don’t crowd the pot; browned meat is critical for depth of flavor.
Add Garlic and Spices: After browning the meat, stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
Incorporate Veggies: Add the chopped bell pepper, diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes. Toss them in to blend with that savory mixture.
Pour in the Broth: Add the beef broth, mixing all the ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer and then reduce the heat to low.
Simmer to Perfection: Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll witness the sauce thickening and infusing the meat and veggies with those incredible flavors.
Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you want to brighten up the dish, consider stirring in a splash of vinegar or fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

Tips and Variations

Healthy Swaps: Use low-sodium broth for a lighter option, and add extra vegetables like green beans or peas for more nutrients.
Seasonal Twists: In autumn, consider adding pumpkin chunks for a seasonal flavor.
Flavor Upgrades: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for complexity or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess when serving.

Serving Ideas

Serve your Beef Goulash warm over a bed of fluffy egg noodles or with crusty bread to soak up the savory broth. Pair this comforting dish with a side salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance out the hearty flavors. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends during festive occasions, filling the room with those inviting aromas.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers are a blessing! Store any uneaten goulash in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture.

Chef’s Pro Tips

Rest the Meat: Allow the meat to come to room temperature before browning for more even cooking.
Layering Flavors: Don’t overlook browning your meat well; it contributes to the overall complexity of flavors.
Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Add fresh parsley or dill just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Taste as You Go: Always adjust flavors towards the end of cooking; seasonings can become muted as they simmer.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, replace the beef with hearty veggies like mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
What can I use instead of beef chuck? Beef stew meat or even pork can be used for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I add wine? A splash of red wine can enhance the flavor, just let it simmer for a few minutes before adding broth.
How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick!

Conclusion

As you savor each bite of this warm and hearty Beef Goulash, allow yourself to revel in the tradition and love that fills this dish. It’s the kind of comforting dinner that brings families together and sparks laughter around the table. I encourage you to gather your loved ones, share this delightful recipe, and create your own moments worth savoring. Enjoy the happiness it brings, one spoonful at a time!

Contents

1 Beef Goulash

Beef Goulash

This comforting Hungarian dish of Beef Goulash is rich, hearty, and filled with spices and vegetables, creating a memorable family meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Hungarian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

For the Goulash

2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing, but you can use any oil you prefer.
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes This gives the dish that melt-in-your-mouth texture. You can substitute with beef stew meat if needed.
1 large onion chopped Fresh onions offer a robust base flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth; don’t skimp on fresh garlic.
2 tablespoons sweet paprika The star of this dish, creating that signature warmth.
1 teaspoon caraway seeds Optional for an authentic touch that adds unique flavor.
1 bell pepper chopped Adds sweetness and fresh texture.
2 tomatoes diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes) For juiciness and acidity; canned works in a pinch.
4 cups beef broth Homemade is best, but store-bought will suffice.
2 medium carrots, sliced Sweet and earthy, balancing the savory beef.
1-2 pieces potatoes, peeled and cubed They add heartiness to the stew; feel free to swap with sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the onions and sauté until they soften and become translucent, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes.
Push the onions aside and add the beef cubes in batches to brown. Ensure you don’t crowd the pot; browned meat is critical for depth of flavor.
After browning the meat, stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
Add the chopped bell pepper, diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes. Toss them in to blend with that savory mixture.
Add the beef broth, mixing all the ingredients. Bring to a gentle simmer and then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll witness the sauce thickening and infusing the meat and veggies with those incredible flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you want to brighten up the dish, consider stirring in a splash of vinegar or fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

Notes

Keyword Beef Goulash, Comfort Food, Family Recipe, Healthy Dinner, Hungarian Cuisine

Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 contact@dailypan.com • Pinterest