Cold nights call for something hearty, and this Easy Hungarian Goulash delivers. It’s a one-pot wonder that simmers beef, onions, and paprika into a rich, soul-warming stew.
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You don’t need to be a chef to pull this off. I’ll guide you through every step, and you’ll have dinner on the table in about 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
The secret is quality paprika and a little patience. Let the flavors meld, and you’ll taste why this dish is a Hungarian classic.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
About the Ingredients
2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
Chuck roast is ideal for stewing; it becomes tender. Substitute with round steak if needed.
2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil
Use a neutral oil with high smoke point. Can substitute with canola or sunflower oil.
2 large yellow onions, diced
Sweet onions work too. Dice them small for even cooking.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic works in a pinch.
3 tbsp (24g) sweet Hungarian paprika
Essential for authentic flavor. Use hot paprika for a spicy kick.
1 tsp (2g) caraway seeds
Adds a subtle anise-like flavor. Skip if you don't have them.
2 cups (480ml) beef broth
Low-sodium recommended. Chicken broth can be substituted.
1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
Fire-roasted adds extra depth. Crushed tomatoes also work.
1 red bell pepper, chopped
Adds sweetness and color. Any color bell pepper is fine.
1 tsp (2g) salt, plus more to taste
Adjust based on your broth's saltiness.
1/2 tsp (1g) black pepper
Freshly ground is best.
2 cups (240g) egg noodles or spaetzle
Classic with goulash. Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Don't rush the browning
Sear the beef in batches to get a deep crust, which adds flavor.
Paprika burns easily
Add it after the onions and cook for just 30 seconds before adding liquid.
Simmer gently
A low, steady simmer keeps beef tender. Boiling makes it tough.
Pro Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Brown Beef
Pat beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C). Brown beef in batches for 4-5 minutes per batch until deeply browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic
Reduce heat to medium (300°F/150°C). Add onions and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Bloom the Paprika
Stir in paprika and caraway seeds. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This releases the oils – don't let it burn.
4. Add Liquids and Beef
Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return beef to the pot. Add bell pepper.
5. Simmer Until Tender
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low (200°F/95°C). Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes until beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally.
6. Cook the Dumplings
While stew simmers, cook egg noodles or spaetzle according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
7. Finish and Serve
Taste goulash and adjust seasoning. Serve over noodles or stir noodles directly into the pot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Delicious Variations
- Add 1 cup sliced carrots and 1 cup diced potatoes for a heartier version.
- Use chicken or pork instead of beef – adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make it creamy by stirring in 1/2 cup sour cream before serving.
How to Store Easy Hungarian Goulash with Dumplings
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Hungarian goulash?
It's a beef stew seasoned with paprika and caraway, originating from Hungary. It's often served with egg noodles or spaetzle.
Q: Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Q: What's the best paprika for goulash?
Sweet Hungarian paprika is traditional. If you can't find it, use regular paprika and add a pinch of sugar.
Q: How do I thicken goulash?
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 2 tbsp flour with 3 tbsp water to make a slurry and stir in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Try this easy goulash tonight – it's a hug in a bowl. Small steps, big impact.
Easy Hungarian Goulash with Dumplings
Easy Hungarian Goulash is a rich, paprika-infused beef stew that comes together in one pot for a cozy dinner.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp (30ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large yellow onions, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp (24g) sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 tsp (2g) caraway seeds
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp (2g) salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 2 cups (240g) egg noodles or spaetzle
📋 Instructions
- 1Season and Brown Beef — Pat beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C). Brown beef in batches for 4-5 minutes per batch until deeply browned. Remove and set aside.
- 2Sauté Onions and Garlic — Reduce heat to medium (300°F/150°C). Add onions and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3Bloom the Paprika — Stir in paprika and caraway seeds. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This releases the oils – don't let it burn.
- 4Add Liquids and Beef — Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return beef to the pot. Add bell pepper.
- 5Simmer Until Tender — Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low (200°F/95°C). Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes until beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally.
- 6Cook the Dumplings — While stew simmers, cook egg noodles or spaetzle according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- 7Finish and Serve — Taste goulash and adjust seasoning. Serve over noodles or stir noodles directly into the pot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Maya writes about sustainable living and zero-waste practices from her urban apartment. She focuses on small, actionable changes that fit busy city life.
