Dinner

Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Name: Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 45 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs. beef chuck roast, fat trimmed and cut into 1 inch cubes; 1 tsp. caraway seeds; 3 tbsp. paprika, preferably Hungarian; 1 tsp. sea salt; 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper; 2 medium yellow onions, diced roughly; 3 large russet potatoes, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 1 tbsp. salted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef stock; 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes

ByCharlotte Montgomery February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

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Introduction

Hungarian Goulash is a comforting stew full of rich flavors from paprika and tender chunks of beef. This classic dish combines hearty vegetables and a savory broth for a satisfying meal perfect for cooler days.

The image shows a large bowl filled with thick beef stew, with visible chunks of brown beef, orange carrots, and yellow potatoes in a rich red-brown sauce, the bowl has a detailed carved pattern and is placed on a wooden surface with some green herbs scattered around. Behind it, there is a large pot also filled with stew in similar colors, slightly out of focus. To the right of the bowl, there are slices of light brown crusty bread stacked on a wooden board and a couple of slices resting directly on the wooden surface. The overall setting is warm and rustic, with the food looking hearty and homemade. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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, tossing to combine evenly with the onions.
Step 3: Pour flour into a shallow bowl and toss the cubed chuck roast until each piece is coated.
Step 4: Transfer the coated beef cubes to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to brown slightly.
Step 5: Add beef stock, diced potatoes, carrots, canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot 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 cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Tips & Variations

For deeper flavor, use smoked paprika or add a small amount of crushed garlic when sautéing the onions.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes to reduce the liquid.
Serve with crusty bread or over buttered noodles for a traditional touch.

Storage

Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Goulash also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A large bowl filled with chunky beef stew showing three main layers: the bottom and main layer is a thick, rich brown and red stew broth with visible pieces of browned ground beef; the middle layer has orange carrot chunks and beige potato pieces mixed evenly; the top layer includes a shiny, slightly oily surface of stew with a silver spoon lifting a serving that shows the same three layers closely packed together. The bowl is sitting on a white marbled texture with slices of crusty bread nearby. In the background, a black pot filled with more stew is slightly out of focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, other tough cuts like brisket or stew meat work well. Just ensure the beef is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Is Hungarian Goulash spicy?

Traditional Hungarian Goulash is mildly spiced, focusing on the smoky and sweet flavors of paprika rather than heat. You can add chili powder or fresh peppers if you prefer a spicier dish.