Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that has become a staple in my home. This recipe features tender beef simmered with traditional Hungarian spices, vegetables, and a rich paprika-infused broth. The magic happens in the slow cooker, where all the flavors meld beautifully over hours, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Served over buttered egg noodles, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe
This dish is a true weeknight hero for many reasons. First, it showcases a classic Hungarian goulash recipe that is both delicious and filling. The use of a slow cooker means you can throw everything in and let it work its magic, making it an easy Hungarian goulash in slow cooker. The tender beef and rich flavors will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a family-friendly slow cooker meal that can be enjoyed by all ages. Lastly, it’s a gluten-free comfort food option that fits perfectly into various diets.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Gather these items:
- 2 lbs. cubed stew meat, or a chuck roast cubed
- ¼ cup all purpose flour
- 2 tsp. salt, divided
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
- 2 medium potatoes, cut into ½ inch chunks
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 red pepper, seeded and cut into ½ inch pieces
- 1 green pepper, seeded and cut into ½ inch pieces
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 3½ Tbsp. sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 tsp. marjoram
- 1½ Tbsp. minced garlic (about 4 plump cloves)
- ¾ tsp. crushed caraway seeds
- 4 cups low sodium beef broth
- 6 oz. can tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ cup fresh parsley plus more for garnish
- ½ cup sour cream or to taste
- Buttered egg noodles, for serving
- Optional: 1 cup beer or red wine (replace 1 cup beef broth with this)
How to Make Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Place the cubed roast pieces in a large bowl. Toss them with the all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of salt, and black pepper until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Step 2: Transfer the coated beef to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, red and green peppers, chopped onions, sweet Hungarian paprika, minced garlic, marjoram, crushed caraway seeds, and fresh parsley if using.
- Step 3: Pour the low sodium beef broth over the mixture in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaves. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on high for 6 hours or on low for 9 hours. Check occasionally and add additional broth if the mixture appears too thick or dry.
- Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, ladle some of the cooking liquid into a medium bowl. Whisk in the tomato paste until smooth, then return it to the slow cooker.
- Step 6: If using sour cream, remove a small amount of broth from the slow cooker during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Slowly whisk the sour cream into the broth, then stir the mixture back into the slow cooker.
- Step 7: Serve the Hungarian Goulash hot over buttered egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra dollop of sour cream if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Keep these in mind:
- Check the thickness of the goulash and adjust broth as needed.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or beer to the broth.
- Using a chuck roast will yield tender results.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the rich broth.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Top with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream for a traditional touch.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. This goulash is also perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen even more after a day in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe
What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe?
The secret lies in the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Using quality beef and authentic Hungarian spices makes all the difference.
Can I make Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe?
Avoid overcooking the beef by sticking to the recommended cooking times and checking the consistency of the goulash periodically. Adjust broth as needed.
Variations of Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe You Can Try
Here are some variations to consider:
- Add different vegetables like peas or mushrooms for more depth.
- Substitute beef with pork for a different flavor profile.
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth and flour alternatives are certified gluten-free.
For more delicious slow cooker recipes, check out Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs and Gnocchi or Creamy Broccoli Casserole. You can also explore Healthy Crockpot Recipes for more nutritious options.
For more information on the health benefits of paprika, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe: A Comforting Delight
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender beef simmered with traditional Hungarian spices, vegetables, and a rich paprika-infused broth.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. cubed stew meat, or a chuck roast cubed
- ¼ cup all purpose flour
- 2 tsp. salt, divided
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
- 2 medium potatoes, cut into ½ inch chunks
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 red pepper, seeded and cut into ½ inch pieces
- 1 green pepper, seeded and cut into ½ inch pieces
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 3½ Tbsp. sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 tsp. marjoram
- 1½ Tbsp. minced garlic (about 4 plump cloves)
- ¾ tsp. crushed caraway seeds
- 4 cups low sodium beef broth
- 6 oz. can tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ cup fresh parsley plus more for garnish
- ½ cup sour cream or to taste
- Buttered egg noodles, for serving
- Optional: 1 cup beer or red wine (replace 1 cup beef broth with this)
Instructions
- Place the cubed roast pieces in a large bowl. Toss them with the all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of salt, and black pepper until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Transfer the coated beef to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, red and green peppers, chopped onions, sweet Hungarian paprika, minced garlic, marjoram, crushed caraway seeds, and fresh parsley if using.
- Pour the low sodium beef broth over the mixture in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaves. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on high for 6 hours or on low for 9 hours. Check occasionally and add additional broth if the mixture appears too thick or dry.
- About 30 minutes before serving, ladle some of the cooking liquid into a medium bowl. Whisk in the tomato paste until smooth, then return it to the slow cooker.
- If using sour cream, remove a small amount of broth from the slow cooker during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Slowly whisk the sour cream into the broth, then stir the mixture back into the slow cooker.
- Serve the Hungarian Goulash hot over buttered egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra dollop of sour cream if desired.
Notes
- Check the thickness of the goulash and adjust broth as needed.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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