Name: Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 20 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 1 kg beef chuck, cut in 3.5cm cubes; 1 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 brown onions, cut into 1cm squares; 5 garlic cloves, finely minced; 2 capsicum/bell peppers (1 red + 1 yellow), cut into 2 cm squares; 2 tomatoes, cut into 8 wedges then halved; 2 carrots, peeled, cut lengthwise into quarters then into 1cm pieces; 2 potatoes, cut into 1.2cm cubes; 1/4 cup Hungarian-style paprika; 1 tsp caraway seeds, optional; 1 bay leaf; 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley, optional garnish; 1 litre beef stock/broth, low-sodium

If you’re craving a cozy, hearty meal that wraps you in warmth and rich flavors, this Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe is just what you need. It’s a time-honored dish packed with paprika, tender beef, and fresh veggies, perfect for sharing or savoring solo on a chilly day.

Hungarian Beef Goulash - A large white pot filled with rich brown stew that has a thick, glossy texture. Floating in the stew are several chunks of dark brown meat and medium-sized pieces of carrots, light orange in color. There are small bits of green herbs sprinkled on top, adding contrast, and a bronze ladle is scooping up some stew, showing the mix of meat, carrots, and sauce in detail. The stew looks hearty and well-cooked, set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Every time I make this Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe, I get flooded with memories of big family dinners and the satisfying aroma filling the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate, and I can’t wait to share why it’s so special.

Deep, authentic flavor: The secret is in the Hungarian-style paprika and slow simmering, which build layers of complexity you just don’t get with quick stews.
Perfectly tender beef: The slow cooking method ensures the chuck turns meltingly soft without falling apart too soon.
Vibrant veggies: Bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots, and potatoes add color, texture, and wholesome goodness that keep each bite interesting.
Versatile and approachable: Whether you use the oven, stove, or slow cooker, this recipe adapts to your kitchen style and schedule.

Hungarian Beef Goulash - A large white pot filled with rich, dark red stew showing chunks of tender brown beef, orange and yellow diced vegetables, and small pieces of red pepper, all mixed in a thick sauce. A golden spoon rests inside the pot, partially submerged in the stew. Two pieces of crusty bread with a golden-brown top are placed near the pot. Bright red and orange autumn leaves decorate the background, which is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe blends simple, fresh ingredients that work beautifully together. Each element plays a role in building that classic balance of smoky, sweet, and hearty flavors.

Hungarian Beef Goulash - Flat lay of fresh beef chuck cubes with rich deep red color and marbled fat, bright red and vibrant yellow bell peppers cut into neat squares, plump red tomato wedges showing juicy flesh, peeled orange carrots sliced lengthwise revealing smooth surfaces, creamy white potatoes in clean cubes, glossy brown onions diced into small squares, scattered rustic caraway seeds with textured brown appearance, and a fresh sprig of bright green parsley with delicate leaves, all arranged naturally with some overlapping and space in between to highlight textures and colors, placed on white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Beef chuck: The marbling and connective tissue break down slowly, giving you tender, juicy meat and a rich stew base.
Cooking salt & black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Extra virgin olive oil & unsalted butter: Combining these fats helps brown the onion and beef beautifully and adds richness.
Brown onions: They caramelize slightly, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the paprika’s earthiness.
Garlic cloves: Adds that punch of savory aroma we all love in stews.
Red and yellow bell peppers: Offer crunch, sweetness, and color for that classic goulash look and taste.
Tomatoes: Help thicken the stew and introduce a hint of acidity to balance the richness.
Hungarian-style paprika: The hero spice here — smoky, rich, and smooth, it’s essential for authenticity.
Caraway seeds (optional): These bring subtle hints of anise and warmth if you want to go traditional.
Bay leaf: Infuses a gentle herbal note that deepens the flavor profile.
Beef stock/broth: Low sodium means you control the salt and can develop a pure, hearty base.
Carrots and potatoes: Add earthiness, heartiness, and soak up the delicious sauce.
Fresh parsley (optional garnish): Brightens the finished dish and adds a fresh herbal pop.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe based on what’s in my pantry or how much time I have. Feel free to make it your own — that’s part of the fun with stews like this.

Smoky twist: Sometimes, I add a bit of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor, but be cautious to keep it balanced so it doesn’t overpower the dish.
Slow cooker version: When I’m busy, I throw everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic all day — the beef turns out just as tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Vegetarian adaptation: I’ve tried swapping beef for mushrooms and adding smoked tofu for a hearty, plant-based alternate that's surprisingly satisfying.
Heat factor: Though traditional goulash isn’t spicy, if you like things hot, a pinch of chili flakes works wonders.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe

Step 1: Get that beef seasoned and ready

Start by tossing your beef cubes with half of the salt and pepper. This simple seasoning helps the meat develop flavor as it browns later. I prefer using beef chuck here — it’s just the right cut for melting tenderness without getting mushy.

Step 2: Caramelize the onions just right

In a heavy, ovenproof Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 minutes until their edges turn a lovely golden color. This step builds a natural sweetness that balances the paprika’s earthiness perfectly.

Step 3: Brown the beef without rushing

Add the beef to your Dutch oven and stir it around for about 2 minutes. Don’t worry if it doesn’t get a deep brown crust — we just want the outside to lose its raw redness. This quick sear helps seal in the juices for tender results later.

Step 4: Build flavor with veggies and spices

Stir in the garlic, diced red and yellow peppers, and tomatoes. Cook for another 3 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and start breaking down, thickening the stew base. Then add the Hungarian paprika, caraway seeds if you’re using them, and a bay leaf. Stir everything for about 30 seconds — the paprika can burn quickly, so keep the heat moderate.

Step 5: Slow cook with stock for tender perfection

Pour in the beef stock and stir to combine. Bring the pot just to a simmer, then cover it with a tight-fitting lid. Transfer to a 180°C (350°F) oven and let it cook for 1.5 hours. This slow, low heat is key to transforming the chuck into tender, flavorful goodness without drying the meat out.

Step 6: Add potatoes and carrots to finish

After the initial slow cook, the beef will be tender but still holding shape. Stir in the chopped carrots and potatoes, cover again, and put the stew back in the oven for 30 more minutes. The vegetables soften just right, and the beef reaches that perfect “fall-apart” level. If you want it even more tender, just pop it back in the oven for 10-minute increments.

Step 7: Serve it up with fresh parsley

Ladle your Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew into comforting bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, bright finish. I love dipping rustic bread into the sauce – it’s the ultimate cozy meal.

Top Tip

From my many times making this Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe, I’ve found a few simple tricks that really elevate it. Trust me, these little tweaks save you stress and up your flavor game.

Don’t rush the browning: Take your time on the onions and beef; that caramelization adds a ton of flavor you won’t get otherwise.
Choose your paprika wisely: Hungarian-style paprika is smooth and rich, different from your run-of-the-mill ones – it’s worth hunting down for this dish.
Low and slow for tenderness: Avoid high heat during simmering; this recipe shines when cooked gently in the oven or a slow cooker.
Test doneness with the beef: Aim for tender but not mushy after step 5; you want it to keep some shape before the vegetable stage.

How to Serve Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe

Hungarian Beef Goulash - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I always finish with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley — it adds a little sunshine and herbal lift. Sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, but that’s totally optional. You could also sprinkle a little extra paprika for color.

Side Dishes

This goulash is hearty enough to stand on its own, but I love serving it with crusty bread or a fresh, tangy cucumber salad to balance the rich flavors. For a classic touch, buttered egg noodles are also fantastic partners.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe in bread bowls. It’s such a beautiful, rustic presentation and perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce. You could also layer it over creamy polenta for a comforting twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and it keeps beautifully for 4 to 5 days. The flavors really deepen, so the next day’s goulash tastes even better than fresh.

Freezing

This stew freezes flawlessly. I portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you thaw and reheat, it’s almost indistinguishable from freshly made.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of beef stock or water can help loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different cut of beef for this Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe?

Absolutely! Beef chuck is ideal for tenderness, but osso bucco, beef cheeks, or brisket also work well. Just watch cooking times if your cut is leaner or more delicate.

What’s the best way to ensure the beef stays tender?

Low and slow is the secret. Cook at a low temperature in the oven or slow cooker, and avoid rushing the browning and simmering stages. Check the beef after 1.5 hours and add more cooking time if needed.

Can I make this Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe spicy?

Traditional goulash isn’t spicy, but you can definitely add chili flakes or hot paprika if you like some heat. Just add small amounts so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.

What’s the difference between Hungarian paprika and regular paprika in this recipe?

Hungarian paprika is smoother and less sweet than ordinary paprika, with a distinct earthiness that’s essential for authentic goulash flavor. Using the wrong type can change the dish’s character significantly.

Final Thoughts

This Hungarian Beef Goulash Stew Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that’s stood the test of time for good reason. It’s not just the flavors; it’s the memories of slow-cooked family dinners and the simple joy of warm food after a cold day. I genuinely hope you make it soon, share it generously, and maybe even make a few happy memories of your own.