Description
Smoked Paprika Goulash for the Slow Cooker
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for traditional flavor)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes (for serving)
Directions
Place the beef cubes in the slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Add diced onion, garlic, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and caraway seeds (if using). Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors are well blended.
Serve the goulash over egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Top with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7-8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Beef: Pat the 2 lbs of beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels. This helps with browning and texture. Place them directly into the slow cooker insert.
2. Season the Base: Sprinkle the beef with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and the 3 tbsp of smoked paprika. Toss the beef in the cooker to coat evenly.
3. Add Aromatics & Liquids: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), 2 cups beef broth, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tsp caraway seeds (if using). Stir everything thoroughly to combine and ensure the tomato paste is dissolved.
4. Cook: Place the lid securely on the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours. The goulash is ready when the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
5. Final Touch: Once cooked, give the goulash a gentle stir. For a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water and stir it into the hot goulash, letting it cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This rich goulash pairs perfectly with starchy sides to soak up the flavorful sauce. Serve it over a bed of:
- Cooked egg noodles or wide pappardelle pasta.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery spaetzle.
- Soft polenta or a slice of crusty bread.
- For a lighter option, try it with steamed dumplings or a simple side of roasted root vegetables.
Always finish with a dollop of cool sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to balance the smokiness.
How-to Summary
Season beef with paprika, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker. Add all remaining ingredients (onion, garlic, tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire, caraway). Stir well. Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours until beef is tender. Serve over noodles or potatoes with sour cream and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, stew meat or brisket work well. Avoid very lean cuts, as the fat in chuck adds flavor and tenderness during slow cooking.
What’s the difference between smoked and sweet paprika? Smoked paprika provides a deep, smoky flavor essential to this dish. Sweet paprika is milder and not smoked. Using sweet paprika will result in a less complex, more traditional Hungarian flavor.
Can I make this goulash on the stovetop? Absolutely. Brown the beef first in a Dutch oven, then add other ingredients. Simmer covered on low heat for 2-3 hours until tender.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes, bell peppers or carrots are excellent additions. Add them at the beginning for softer vegetables or in the last hour of cooking to retain more texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Lean Beef: Chuck roast is ideal. Lean cuts like sirloin can become tough and dry during long cooking.
- Substituting Paprika: Do not substitute smoked paprika with chili powder or cayenne. The flavor profile will be completely different.
- Overcrowding with Vegetables: Adding too many watery vegetables (like zucchini) can make the sauce thin and dilute the flavor.
- Skipping the Sour Cream: The cool, creamy sour cream is a classic garnish that balances the dish’s richness and smokiness.
Conclusion
This Smoked Paprika Goulash is the ultimate set-and-forget comfort meal. The slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful, tender beef stew with a signature smoky warmth. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich, hearty results over your favorite starch for a truly satisfying dinner.