Why Make This Recipe
Classic Beef Goulash is a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the belly. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The rich flavors of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices create a delicious meal that’s easy to make. Plus, it’s a one-pot recipe, which means less cleanup for you!
How to Make Classic Beef Goulash
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rice or bread for serving
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides until nicely seared.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Then, add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 90 to 120 minutes, or until the beef is tender and infused with flavors.
- Serve hot over rice or alongside bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Serve Classic Beef Goulash
Classic Beef Goulash is best served hot. You can serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside warm crusty bread. This helps soak up the rich and flavorful sauce. Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can also enhance the presentation.
How to Store Classic Beef Goulash
If you have leftovers, let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the goulash for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Classic Beef Goulash
- Use beef chuck for the best results; it becomes tender and flavorful after simmering.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a little heat.
- Include other vegetables like potatoes or peas for added nutrition and texture.
Variation
You can make a Hungarian-style goulash by adding bay leaves and a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor. If you prefer a creamier version, stirring in a bit of sour cream before serving adds a rich touch.
FAQs
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with water or vegetable broth, but beef broth gives the goulash a deeper flavor.
Can I use ground beef instead of chunks?
Yes, you can use ground beef. Just cook it in the pot until browned and then proceed with the recipe as directed.
How long does it take to make Classic Beef Goulash?
The total cooking time is about 90 to 120 minutes. This allows the beef to become tender and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
Classic Beef Goulash
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Meat
Description
A comforting one-pot beef goulash packed with rich flavors from tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rice or bread for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides until nicely seared.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Then, add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 90 to 120 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
- Serve hot over rice or alongside bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
Use beef chuck for the best results; it becomes tender and flavorful after simmering. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a little heat. You can also make a Hungarian-style goulash by adding bay leaves and a splash of white wine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
