The Best Homemade Easy Goulash Recipe

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This goulash recipe is packed with flavor and comfort, making it the perfect meal for cozy nights or family gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up with simple ingredients you probably already have.

Rich and Hearty – Tender beef, savory tomatoes, and warm spices create a deeply satisfying dish.
One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy this delicious meal with loved ones.
Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to make it your own.

Recipe

Goulash is a hearty and flavorful dish that originated in Hungary but has become popular worldwide. This classic comfort food features tender beef, savory spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all simmered to perfection. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp paprika (preferably Hungarian)
1 tsp caraway seeds
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 bay leaf
2 cups beef broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 bell peppers, diced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed
1 cup water (if needed)

Instructions

Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Onions & Garlic: In the same pot, add onions and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add Spices: Mix in paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
Deglaze & Simmer: Pour in beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Return the beef to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
Add Vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes. If the mixture is too thick, add water. Cover and simmer for another 30-40 minutes until the beef and vegetables are tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Remove the bay leaf and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra depth, use smoked paprika.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board

Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Cuisine

Hungarian

Serving

6-8 servings

Nutrition

The homemade goulash recipe provides a hearty meal rich in essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.

What To Serve With It

I love serving my homemade goulash with crusty bread, like a warm baguette or garlic bread, to soak up all the rich flavors. A fresh side salad with crisp greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice balance to the hearty dish. These pairings make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the star of the table.

Bread Pairings

When I’m digging into a bowl of hearty goulash, I always crave something warm and fresh to soak up that rich, savory sauce. Crusty bread is my go-to—like a warm baguette or sourdough loaf, torn into chunks for dipping. Sometimes, I’ll toast slices of rye or pumpernickel for a deeper flavor that complements the spices. Dinner rolls or garlic bread are great too, especially if I’m feeding a crowd. For a lighter option, I’ll grab a soft ciabatta or focaccia. Honestly, any bread works as long as it’s fresh and ready to mop up every delicious drop.

Side Salad Options

A crisp, revitalizing side salad can balance the rich flavors of goulash perfectly. I love tossing together a simple cucumber and tomato salad with red onion, fresh dill, and a tangy vinaigrette—it cuts through the heartiness of the dish. A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and homemade croutons works, too, if you’re craving something creamy. For a lighter option, try mixed greens with sliced apples, walnuts, and a honey-mustard dressing. The sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the savory goulash. Whatever you choose, keep it fresh and simple—it’ll make every bite of that comforting stew even better.