Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe: A Comforting Classic with a Twist
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and minimal prep, Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash is the answer! This recipe combines tender beef, paprika, and savory vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s the perfect comfort food for cold evenings or when you’re craving something that tastes like home. Whether you’re familiar with traditional Hungarian goulash or you’re trying it for the first time, this slow-cooked version is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes This Hungarian Goulash Special?
Hungarian goulash is a stew-like dish that traditionally features tender cuts of beef, onions, garlic, paprika, and sometimes tomatoes or potatoes. In this version, we use the magic of the slow cooker to achieve a dish that’s even easier to make, allowing all the flavors to meld and intensify.
Here’s what makes this recipe a must-try:
- Paprika-rich flavor – A hallmark of Hungarian goulash, paprika adds depth, warmth, and a subtle smokiness to the dish.
- Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef – The slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes incredibly tender, soaking up all the spices and juices.
- Hands-off cooking – Once you’ve added all the ingredients to the slow cooker, it does all the work for you. No constant stirring or checking required!
- Perfect for meal prep – This dish stores well and actually tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for leftovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the best results, make sure to use beef chuck roast or stew meat, as these cuts are perfect for slow cooking and will give you that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
For the Goulash:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes or use stew meat)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika (preferably)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
- 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional, but they add a great flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for creaminess and richness, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash:
Step 1: Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)
While this step is optional, browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor and adds a delicious caramelization. Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium-high heat, and brown the beef chunks in batches for about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the slow cooker along with the browned beef. Sprinkle in the paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to evenly coat the beef and onions with the spices.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Vegetables
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Add the carrots, potatoes (if using), and bay leaf. Stir to combine, then cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. The beef should be fork-tender and easy to shred.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Once the goulash is done cooking, remove the bay leaf and discard it. If you’d like to add a creamy touch, stir in sour cream just before serving for a rich, velvety texture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with a side of bread or over egg noodles to soak up all the delicious sauce.