Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich, savory flavors with tender chunks of beef and vegetables. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, while the paprika and caraway seeds bring a distinct, aromatic depth. It’s easy to make, and the leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great option for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. cubed stew meat (or a chuck roast, cubed)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp. salt, divided
• ½ tsp. black pepper
• 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
• 2 medium potatoes, cut into ½ inch chunks
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into ½ inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and cut into ½ inch pieces
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 ½ tbsp. sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 tsp. marjoram
• 1 ½ tbsp. minced garlic (about 4 plump cloves)
• ¾ tsp. crushed caraway seeds
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 6 oz. can tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves

Optional Ingredients

• Fresh parsley (¼ cup, plus more for garnish)
• Sour cream (½ cup or to taste)
• Buttered egg noodles

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, toss the stew meat or chuck roast cubes with flour, salt, and pepper until fully coated.
2. Add to Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef to the slow cooker, then add the crushed tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, red and green bell peppers, onions, paprika, garlic, marjoram, and caraway seeds. (If using, add fresh parsley here as well.)
3. Add Broth and Bay Leaves: Pour the beef broth over the stew mixture and add the bay leaves.
4. Cook: Set the slow cooker to high for 6 hours or low for 9 hours. Add additional broth if needed during cooking to ensure the stew remains moist.
5. Thicken the Stew: About 30 minutes before serving, remove some of the liquid from the slow cooker into a medium bowl. Whisk in the tomato paste until smooth, then return this mixture to the slow cooker. Stir and cook for the final 30 minutes to thicken the stew.
6. Add Sour Cream (Optional): If adding sour cream, remove some stew broth in the last 5 minutes of cooking and stir in the sour cream to temper it. Avoid curdling by slowly incorporating it into the stew.
7. Serve: Serve the goulash over buttered egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (on high) or 9 hours (on low)
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Beer or Wine Option: If you like, substitute 1 cup of the broth with beer or red wine for a deeper, richer flavor. Simply reduce the amount of broth by 1 cup.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas or green beans for additional texture and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to give the stew a spicy heat.
• Vegan Version: Omit the meat and use plant-based protein, such as mushrooms or lentils, for a vegetarian version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: The stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to thin it out if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use beef stew meat or a chuck roast. If you prefer, you can also substitute pork or chicken for a different flavor profile.

2. What if I don’t have caraway seeds?

If you don’t have caraway seeds, you can substitute them with a small amount of fennel seeds or omit them altogether. The flavor will still be delicious.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add more vegetables like peas, zucchini, or parsnips to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

4. How do I make the goulash spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the goulash for some heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

5. Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?

You can use ground beef instead of stew meat, but the texture will be different. If using ground beef, cook it beforehand and add it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.

6. Can I cook this goulash on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this on the stovetop. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then add the broth and simmer for about 1-2 hours until everything is tender.

7. How can I make this goulash thicker?

To thicken the goulash, you can either cook it for a longer time to reduce the liquid, or you can mash some of the potatoes to help create a thicker consistency.

8. Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Yes, this goulash can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

9. Can I freeze this goulash?

Yes, this goulash freezes very well. Let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat.

10. What can I serve with this goulash?

This goulash is great served over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash is a warm, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. Packed with tender beef, vegetables, and the rich flavors of paprika and caraway, it’s sure to satisfy. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Serve it over buttered noodles and garnish with fresh parsley for a comforting and delicious meal!

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