There’s something magical about a warm bowl of goulash, isn’t there? It wraps you in its embrace like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The rich aroma of tender beef simmering with spices and vegetables fills the air, tantalizing your senses and making your taste buds dance. Each spoonful is a delightful experience, with hearty flavors melting together to create a symphony of comfort.
I remember the first time I had goulash at my grandmother’s house; it was a family gathering, and let me tell you, it drew everyone in like moths to a flame. The laughter, the chatter, and that bubbling pot of goodness made for an unforgettable evening. Trust me, when you serve this goulash recipe at your next dinner party, expect compliments and requests for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This goulash recipe is incredibly simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that even picky eaters will adore
- With its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, it’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or over pasta or rice
I once made this goulash recipe for friends who were skeptical about trying new dishes. They left my house raving about how they couldn’t wait to make it themselves.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Beef Chuck Roast: Cut into bite-sized pieces; this cut becomes tender and flavorful during cooking.
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Onion: Use one large onion; it adds sweetness when sautéed until golden brown.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch; minced just before adding brings out the best flavor.
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Bell Peppers: Red or green peppers work well; they add color and sweetness to the dish.
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Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes save time; they provide acidity which balances the richness of the beef.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; it enriches the overall flavor profile.
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Paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika adds depth; I personally love smoked paprika for an extra kick!
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Bay Leaves: These enhance flavor as the goulash simmers; remember to remove them before serving.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s natural flavor.
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Pasta or Rice (optional): Serve under the goulash if desired; they soak up all those amazing juices perfectly!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Start by preparing your ingredients: Gather all your chopped veggies and diced beef. It’s always easier when everything is ready to go!
Sautéing Aromatics: Heat some oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent—about 5 minutes is perfect.
Browning the Beef: Increase heat slightly and add beef chunks in batches for even browning. Sear until browned on all sides—this step locks in flavors!
Add Vegetables & Spices: Toss in bell peppers along with paprika, salt, and pepper; stir frequently until veggies soften, releasing their natural sweetness—about 4 minutes should do.
Creamy Tomato Base: Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; stir well while scraping up any browned bits at the bottom—those bits are pure flavor gold!
Simmering Magic Happens!: Bring everything to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low. Add bay leaves and cover; let it simmer for about 1-1.5 hours until beef is fork-tender.
Serve hot straight from the pot or over pasta/rice if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy your delightful creation with crusty bread or a side salad.
Now you’ve got yourself a comforting bowl of goulash that’s sure to impress anyone who dares to taste!
You Must Know
- This delightful goulash recipe is a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights
- The rich aroma of spices and tender meat will warm your heart
- Plus, you can easily tweak it based on your pantry staples, making it an all-time favorite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat to lock in flavors, then add veggies and spices before simmering. This sequence ensures rich flavors develop fully and your goulash becomes a comforting masterpiece.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or even try adding some pasta for a twist. Customize the seasoning to match your taste buds for a personal touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, let your goulash simmer for at least an hour; it enhances depth
- Using fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the dish beautifully
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; every palate is unique!
Cooking this goulash reminds me of family dinners where laughter filled the room and every bite was met with smiles. Those moments are what cooking is all about!

FAQ
What is the best meat to use for goulash recipe?
Choose beef chuck or pork shoulder for tender, flavorful results that melt in your mouth.
Can I make goulash recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute meat with hearty vegetables or beans for a delicious vegetarian version.
How long does goulash last in the fridge?
Properly stored, this tasty dish lasts up to three days in the refrigerator without losing flavor.
Warm and Hearty Goulash Recipe
Indulge in the comforting embrace of goulash, a dish that combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Each bowl is a delightful experience, filled with rich flavors that meld together beautifully. Serve it over pasta or rice for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red or green), chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta or rice for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all chopped veggies and diced beef to streamline your cooking process.
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Increase heat slightly; add beef chunks in batches, browning on all sides to lock in flavors.
- Add bell peppers, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir for about 4 minutes until softened.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; scrape up any browned bits from the bottom for added flavor.
- Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low. Add bay leaves, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until beef is fork-tender.
- Serve hot over pasta or rice if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg


