Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Introduction
Hungarian Goulash is a hearty and comforting stew that showcases tender beef, rich paprika, and fresh vegetables. This classic dish offers deep, warming flavors perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.

Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. salted butter
- 2 medium yellow onions, diced roughly
- 1 tsp. caraway seeds
- 3 tbsp. paprika, preferably Hungarian
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 lbs. beef chuck roast, fat trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
- 3 large russet potatoes, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 tsp. sea salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and sauté until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 2: Add caraway seeds and paprika, stirring to combine well with the onions.
- Step 3: Pour flour into a shallow bowl and toss the cubed chuck roast until evenly coated.
- Step 4: Transfer the coated beef cubes to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes to brown the meat.
- Step 5: Add beef stock, diced potatoes, carrots, canned tomatoes, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.
- Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Step 7: Let the goulash simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and fully cooked.
Tips & Variations
- For richer flavor, use homemade beef stock or add a splash of red wine during simmering.
- Try adding a diced bell pepper or a dash of hot paprika if you like a bit of heat.
- Serve with crusty bread or over buttered noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Storage
Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can substitute beef chuck with brisket or round roast, but adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat becomes tender.
Is Hungarian Goulash spicy?
Traditional Hungarian Goulash is mildly spiced with paprika, but you can add more hot paprika or chili flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
PrintHungarian Goulash Recipe
Hungarian Goulash is a classic, hearty stew featuring tender beef chuck roast simmered with aromatic onions, caraway seeds, and rich paprika. Combined with potatoes, carrots, and diced tomatoes, this comforting dish delivers deep, robust flavors and makes for a perfect warming meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 lbs. beef chuck roast, fat trimmed and cut into 1 inch cubes
- 2 medium yellow onions, diced roughly
- 3 large russet potatoes, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 tsp. caraway seeds
- 3 tbsp. paprika, preferably Hungarian
- 1 tsp. sea salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. salted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Saute onions: Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until tender and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add spices: Stir in the caraway seeds and paprika with the onions to release their flavors and combine well.
- Coat the beef: Pour the flour into a shallow bowl and toss the cubed beef chuck roast in it until well coated, helping to thicken the stew later.
- Brown the beef: Transfer the coated beef cubes to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flour-coated meat to brown slightly for richer flavor.
- Add liquids and vegetables: Pour in the beef stock and add diced potatoes, carrots, canned diced tomatoes, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the goulash simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.
Notes
- Use Hungarian sweet paprika for authentic flavor.
- Trim excess fat from beef chuck to prevent greasy stew.
- Adjust seasoning by adding more salt or paprika to taste after simmering.
- Serve with crusty bread or egg noodles for a complete meal.
- Slow simmering ensures tender beef and rich flavor development.
Keywords: Hungarian Goulash, Beef Stew, Paprika, Comfort Food, Traditional Hungarian Recipe

