Crock Pot Hungarian Beef Goulash

This Crock Pot Hungarian Beef Goulash is a hearty and savory recipe, which includes beef chuck roast and Hungarian paprika. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 8 hours and 15 minutes.

Crock Pot Hungarian Beef Goulash Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
• 2 teaspoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon hot paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups sweet onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 tablespoons flour, all-purpose or gluten-free
• 2 cups red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup low sodium beef broth
• 1 cup crushed tomato
• 1 teaspoon caraway seed, plus more for garnish
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar (optional)
• 1 dry bay leaf
• Sour cream (optional for serving)

How To Make Crock Pot Hungarian Beef Goulash

1. Season the beef: Toss the beef pieces with sweet paprika, hot paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and kosher salt until evenly coated.
2. Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray. Brown the beef on all sides in two batches. Transfer the browned beef to a slow cooker.
3. Cook the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, smashed garlic, and flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes until aromatic. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Add remaining ingredients: Add the chopped bell pepper, beef broth, crushed tomato, caraway seed, and brown sugar (if using). Stir everything together and add the bay leaf.
5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours until the beef is tender.
6. Serve: Remove bay leaf. Serve hot, topped with sour cream and a sprinkle of caraway seeds if desired.

Recipe Tips

• What cut of beef works best? Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and tenderness when cooked low and slow.
• Can I make it less spicy? Skip the hot paprika and stick with sweet Hungarian paprika for a milder taste.
• How to thicken the goulash: The flour helps thicken the sauce; for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch slurry.
• Can I prep this the night before? Yes, you can season the beef and prep the vegetables ahead of time to save morning prep.
• What does caraway seed add? Caraway adds a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that’s classic in Hungarian cuisine.

What To Serve With Hungarian Goulash

This goulash pairs well with classic and comforting sides:

• Buttered egg noodles
• Mashed potatoes
• Crusty sourdough bread
• Steamed green beans
• Pickled cucumbers or cabbage

How To Store Hungarian Goulash

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze: Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Hungarian Goulash Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 406 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Protein: 51.5 g
• Fat: 13.5 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 168 mg
• Sodium: 657 mg
• Fiber: 5.5 g
• Sugar: 9 g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, pork shoulder or pork stew meat can be used, though flavor and texture may vary slightly.

What can I use instead of caraway seeds?
Try cumin seeds or leave them out if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.

Why is my goulash watery?
Make sure to use the recommended amount of flour or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function to brown the beef, then cook on high pressure for about 35 minutes with a natural release.

Is goulash the same as stew?
Not exactly. Goulash uses paprika and other spices for a distinct flavor, while stews are usually milder and often thicker.

Try More Recipes:

Try More Recipes:

• Crock Pot Beef And Bean Torta
• Crock Pot Beef Hamburger Stew
• Crock Pot Beef Tomato Basil Steak