Easy Hungarian Goulash Recipe

This Hungarian Goulash recipe is the perfect comfort food for a cozy dinner. Made with tender beef stew meat, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, this slow-cooked dish is packed with savory spices like paprika and garlic, offering an authentic taste of Hungary. Perfectly paired with egg noodles, this hearty meal will satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a simple, one-pot meal or a dish that can be prepped in advance, this easy Hungarian goulash will become a new favorite. Slow cooker goulash allows the beef to cook to tender perfection while the spices meld together for an unforgettable flavor. Easy to make and packed with bold flavors, this recipe is a must-try for comfort food lovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 2-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups beef broth, divided
• 1 ½ tablespoons flour
• 1 ½ tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 4 cups uncooked egg noodles

Instructions:

1. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and bell pepper to your slow cooker.
2. Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the meat cubes on all sides.
4. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker and deglaze the pan with 1 ½ cups of beef broth, scraping up the flavorful brown bits from the skillet.
5. In a small bowl, combine the flour, paprika, minced garlic, tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper to form a paste.
6. Whisk this paste into the deglazed broth in the skillet, cooking for a couple of minutes until the broth thickens.
7. Pour the thickened broth over the beef in the slow cooker and add the remaining ½ cup of beef broth. Stir well to combine.
8. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours until the beef is tender and flavorful.
9. About 15 minutes before the goulash is finished, prepare the egg noodles according to package instructions.
10. Serve the hot goulash over the cooked egg noodles and enjoy!

---

Tips

• To enhance the flavor, allow the stew to sit for 30 minutes after cooking before serving. This will help the flavors meld together.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the broth.
• For a richer flavor, consider using beef chuck roast instead of stew meat.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef stew meat with plant-based meat alternatives or tofu.
• Spice It Up: Add smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to give the goulash a kick.
• Different Noodles: Feel free to swap egg noodles with any other pasta like penne, fusilli, or even mashed potatoes for a twist.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! Hungarian goulash can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Can I use other types of meat? While beef is traditional, you can also use pork or chicken, but the cooking times may vary. Pork may need about 6 hours on low, and chicken breast could cook faster.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Hungarian goulash with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hearty and comforting Hungarian goulash is perfect for a cozy meal. With tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s a dish that will warm you up from the inside out. The egg noodles add a nice touch of texture, making this a satisfying, one-pot meal your family will adore. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and cooks in a slow cooker, making it a great choice for busy days!