Amazing German Goulash: 2 hr Flavor Bomb

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

German Goulash For Servings has been a family favorite for generations, and for good reason! This hearty and flavorful stew is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. I remember my Oma making this on chilly evenings, the aroma of paprika and slow-cooked beef filling our small kitchen, making our mouths water before we even sat down. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gathering everyone around the table. This authentic German goulash is packed with tender beef and vibrant vegetables, promising a truly satisfying experience. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This German Goulash For Servings

This isn’t just any stew; it’s an experience! Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

It’s incredibly hearty and satisfying, perfect for any occasion.
The deep, rich flavors are simply irresistible.
This is truly an easy goulash recipe that doesn’t require fancy techniques.
You can customize the vegetables to your liking.
It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal – the flavors deepen overnight!
This easy goulash recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
The aroma alone will make your house feel like a cozy home.
It’s a classic, comforting dish that always hits the spot.

Ingredients for German Goulash For Servings

Gather these essentials for a truly authentic German goulash experience. I’ve found that using good quality ingredients makes all the difference!

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – This cut becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics.
2 large onions, chopped – The base of our rich flavor, don’t skimp!
3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds that essential pungent depth.
2 bell peppers (any color), chopped – For a touch of sweetness and color.
4 medium carrots, sliced – Adds a natural sweetness and lovely texture.
3 tablespoons tomato paste – This is key for that deep, concentrated flavor and color.
2 teaspoons paprika (sweet or smoked) – The soul of any goulash! I prefer smoked for an extra layer.
1 teaspoon caraway seeds – Adds a distinctive, slightly anise-like note classic to German dishes.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – For a subtle earthy aroma.
1 bay leaf – To infuse a gentle herbal background note.
4 cups beef broth – The liquid base that makes everything meld together beautifully.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
Fresh parsley, for garnish – A bright, fresh finish.

While these are the stars for our German Goulash, thinking about serving it with a creamy sauce might also be fun. If you’re ever curious about Mexican white sauce ingredients, they often involve dairy, spices, and sometimes a thickener, which could be an interesting (though non-traditional!) pairing if you wanted to get creative with side dishes.

How to Make German Goulash For Servings

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
Step 2: Heat the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pot; you want a nice brown sear on all sides. This browning is crucial for developing the deep flavor in this beef goulash recipe. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
Step 3: Add the 2 large onions, chopped to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The fond left from the beef will add amazing flavor here.
Step 4: Stir in the 3 cloves garlic, minced and cook for just one minute more until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 5: Toss in the 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped and 4 medium carrots, sliced. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
Step 6: Add the 3 tablespoons tomato paste and stir it into the vegetables. Cook for another minute, letting the paste deepen in color and flavor.
Step 7: Sprinkle in the 2 teaspoons paprika (sweet or smoked), 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and the 1 bay leaf. Stir everything together until the spices are fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 8: Return the browned beef cubes back into the pot. Give it a good stir to coat the meat with the vegetable and spice mixture.
Step 9: Slowly pour in the 4 cups beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with your spoon to loosen any delicious browned bits. This step truly elevates your beef goulash recipe.
Step 10: Bring the entire mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly. Let it simmer gently for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 11: Once the beef is tender, taste the goulash and season generously with salt and pepper, to taste. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
Step 12: Let the German Goulash For Servings rest, covered, for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making this beef goulash recipe even more delicious.

Pro Tips for the Best German Goulash For Servings

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make this hearty stew even better. Follow these tips for a truly exceptional German Goulash For Servings:

Don’t rush the browning of the beef; it’s essential for developing deep flavor.
Use good quality sweet or smoked paprika – it’s the heart of the dish!
Low and slow simmering is key to tender, fall-apart beef.
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end – salt and pepper make all the difference.

What’s the secret to perfect German Goulash For Servings?

The secret lies in patient browning of the beef and onions, allowing them to caramelize. This builds a rich, complex base. While not traditional, some might enjoy a dollop of something like a creamy enchilada sauce on the side for a fusion twist!

Can I make German Goulash For Servings ahead of time?

Absolutely! This German Goulash For Servings actually tastes even better the next day. Prepare it completely, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Gently reheat on the stovetop.

How do I avoid common mistakes with German Goulash For Servings?

A common pitfall is not browning the beef properly, leading to a less flavorful stew. Another is overcrowding the pot when sautéing vegetables, which steams them instead of softening. Always simmer gently, never boil vigorously.

Best Ways to Serve German Goulash For Servings

This rich and hearty German Goulash For Servings is wonderfully versatile! My absolute favorite way to serve it is with a side of fluffy spaetzle – those little German dumplings are the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Crusty bread is also a fantastic choice for dipping. For something a bit different, you could even try serving it over creamy mashed potatoes. While not traditional, if you’re exploring creative pairings and wondering ‘what to use Mexican white sauce for,’ a small drizzle on the side could add an unexpected creamy, zesty element to your plate, though I usually stick to classic German accompaniments!

Nutrition Facts for German Goulash For Servings

When I make this German Goulash For Servings, I like to know what I’m getting nutritionally. Here’s a breakdown per serving, keeping in mind this is a hearty dish:

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
Fat: About 20g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: Around 35g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat German Goulash For Servings

One of the best things about this German Goulash For Servings is how well it stores and reheats, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, let the goulash cool completely on the counter. This is super important to prevent condensation, which can make it watery. Once cooled, portion it into airtight containers. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this hearty stew freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure your containers are freezer-safe!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. For refrigerated portions, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. You can also reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop, but it will take a bit longer and require more stirring. While this is a beef dish, thinking about storage for something like a creamy chicken sauce recipe is similar – always cool completely before sealing!

Frequently Asked Questions About German Goulash For Servings

Can I freeze German Goulash For Servings?

Yes, absolutely! This German Goulash For Servings freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thawing it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating is the best method.

What are the best sides for German Goulash For Servings?

Classic pairings include spaetzle, egg noodles, or crusty bread for dipping. Mashed potatoes are also a fantastic choice. Some people even enjoy it with a side of rice. If you’re looking for something completely different, and perhaps wondering ‘how to make Mexican white sauce,’ you could experiment with a small serving of that on the side, though it’s not traditional!

How can I make my German Goulash For Servings spicier?

To add some heat, you can incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika. Diced chili peppers can also be sautéed with the onions and bell peppers. For a different kind of spice, you might consider experimenting with how to make Mexican white sauce with added jalapeños, for a creamy, spicy kick, though this strays from the authentic German flavor profile.

Is German Goulash For Servings the same as Hungarian Goulash?

While they share a common ancestor and many ingredients, there are subtle differences. Traditional Hungarian goulash often uses more paprika and can be thinner, sometimes served more like a soup. This German Goulash For Servings is typically heartier, thicker, and often includes vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, making it a robust stew. Think of it as a delicious evolution!

Variations of German Goulash For Servings You Can Try

While this classic German Goulash For Servings is perfect as is, I love getting creative in the kitchen! Here are a few ways you can switch things up to make it your own:

Vegetarian Goulash: Swap the beef for hearty mushrooms (like portobello or cremini), extra root vegetables, or firm tofu. The base spices remain the same, creating a delicious meat-free version.
Slow Cooker Goulash: For an even more hands-off approach, brown the beef and sauté the aromatics on the stove first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
Spicy Kick Goulash: If you love a bit of heat, try this! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the paprika, or even a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the onions and bell peppers. For a creamy, spicy element, you could even consider a drizzle of a ‘spicy white sauce Mexican’ style sauce on top right before serving – it’s unconventional but can be delicious!
Smoked Paprika Focus: Really lean into the smoky flavor by using exclusively smoked paprika and perhaps adding a bit of smoked bacon or pancetta when you start sautéing the onions.