Name: Hungarian Goulash (Beef Stew‑Soup)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola); 1 kg / 2 lb beef chuck, cut into 3cm / 1.2″ cubes; 2 onions, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 tbsp sweet paprika powder (Hungarian if possible); 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional); 1 1/2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 1/4 cups (310 ml) beef broth; 1 1/4 cups (310 ml) water; 2 bay leaves; 2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped into chunks

Why You’ll Love Hungarian Goulash (Beef Stew‑Soup) Recipe

This Hungarian Goulash recipe delivers:

Bold, authentic paprika‑rich flavor that defines classic Hungarian cuisine
Tender, melt‑in‑your‑mouth beef after slow cooking
A one‑pot meal that’s comforting and satisfying on cold evenings

Ingredients

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

beef chuck, cut into cubes
salt and black pepper
extra virgin olive oil
unsalted butter
brown onions
garlic cloves
capsicum / bell peppers
tomatoes
Hungarian‑style paprika
caraway seeds (optional)
bay leaf
beef stock or broth
carrots
potatoes
parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven (or prepare your stove or slow cooker).
Season the beef cubes with half the salt and pepper.
Heat the oil and melt the butter in a large heavy oven‑proof pot over high heat.
Cook the onions for about 6 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Add the beef and stir until the outside changes color.
Add the garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes and stir for a few minutes so the tomato begins to break down.
Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds (if using), and bay leaf.
Add the beef stock, bring to a simmer, cover, and transfer to the oven (or continue on the stove on low heat).
After about 1½ hours, add the carrots and potatoes, then continue cooking for another 30 minutes or until the beef is very tender.
Serve hot in bowls, garnished with parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves approximately 5 people
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Swap or add different vegetables like parsnip or celery root for a twist on the classic
Use smoked paprika alongside sweet Hungarian paprika for deeper flavor
Substitute other meats such as pork or chicken for a variation on the stew
Serve over buttered egg noodles (csipetke) or with mashed potatoes for a traditional accompaniment

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened. This goulash also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for Hungarian Goulash?

Use a tougher cut like beef chuck which becomes tender when slow‑cooked.

Can I make this on the stove instead of in the oven?

Yes, simmer on low heat on the stovetop with a lid for similar results.

Is paprika necessary?

Paprika is essential for authentic Hungarian flavor and color.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, but fresh tomatoes help thicken the sauce naturally.

How can I thicken the goulash?

The sauce naturally thickens during slow cooking; you can reduce the liquid further by simmering uncovered near the end.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for about 6 hours, adding the root vegetables in the last couple of hours.

What should I serve with Hungarian goulash?

Serve with crusty bread, buttered noodles, mashed potatoes, or dumplings.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, traditional Hungarian goulash is flavorful from paprika, but not spicy.

Can I add sour cream?

Yes, sour cream is optional but adds a lovely creaminess when dolloped on top before serving.

How long does leftover goulash keep?

It keeps in the refrigerator for 3–4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Hungarian Goulash is a comforting classic that brings bold paprika flavor and tender beef together in a deeply satisfying stew‑soup. It’s a perfect centerpiece for cozy dinners and makes excellent leftovers or freezer meals, inviting you to enjoy rich, hearty flavors with minimal effort.

Hungarian Goulash (Beef Stew‑Soup)