Hearty, smoky, and rich with spice—this stew is pure Eastern European comfort.

Few dishes define Eastern European comfort food like Hungarian Goulash. This rustic beef stew, simmered with sweet paprika, onions, and tender chunks of meat, is a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you serve it with noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, this traditional Hungarian beef goulash recipe is a cold-weather staple that’s both satisfying and steeped in culinary tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Big flavor from simple ingredients
• Slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness
• Naturally gluten-free
• Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp oil or lard
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional but traditional)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium potato, cubed
• 4 cups beef broth or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sour cream or fresh parsley for topping

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pot. Sauté onions over medium heat until soft and golden.
2. Add garlic and paprika (off heat for a moment to avoid burning), then stir in tomato paste.
3. Return to heat and add beef cubes, stirring to coat.
4. Pour in broth, add caraway seeds (if using), and bring to a boil.
5. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, until beef is tender.
6. Add potatoes and bell pepper, cook for another 20–30 minutes until vegetables are soft.
7. Adjust seasoning, serve hot with your favorite side.

Pro Tips & Substitutions

• Use good-quality Hungarian sweet paprika—don’t substitute with generic brands
• Add a splash of red wine for depth
• Make it in a slow cooker: 6–8 hours on low
• Want a thicker stew? Let it simmer uncovered at the end

Storage & Reheating

• Tastes even better the next day
• Store up to 4 days in the fridge
• Freezes well in airtight containers
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth

Serving Suggestions

• Traditionally served with egg noodles or spaetzle
• Also great over mashed potatoes, rice, or with crusty bread
• Top with sour cream and fresh parsley for brightness

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 30g
• Sodium: 580mg

Note: Values may vary based on meat and broth used.

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