✅️ Classic Old Fashioned Beef Goulash
A hearty, nostalgic stew that never goes out of style.
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes deliver the soul-warming satisfaction of classic beef goulash. With its deep paprika flavor, melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef, and rich tomato-based sauce, this old-world dish has stood the test of time—and for good reason.
Whether you’re revisiting a childhood favorite or discovering this dish for the first time, this recipe will bring comfort, warmth, and delicious aromas to your kitchen.
🛒 Ingredients:
Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this timeless dish:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika (the real secret!)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, but traditional)
- 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Directions:
1. Sear the Beef
Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Set the seared beef aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add the onions. Cook until softened and golden (about 6–8 minutes). Add garlic and stir for another minute.
3. Add Spices & Tomato Paste
Stir in paprika, tomato paste, caraway seeds, and marjoram. Let everything cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
4. Deglaze & Build the Base
Add beef broth and crushed tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful bits. Add the bay leaf, and return the beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer Low & Slow
Bring to a light simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Optional: For a thicker sauce, dissolve 1 tbsp flour in a bit of water and stir in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish & Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
This old-fashioned goulash pairs beautifully with:
- Buttered egg noodles
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Crusty bread for dipping
💡 Pro Tips:
- Don’t skip the paprika – Hungarian sweet paprika is essential for authentic flavor.
- Make it ahead – Goulash tastes even better the next day!
- Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and freezes beautifully.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just stew—it’s a recipe with roots, history, and heart. Whether you’re serving it on a cozy winter night or making it for a crowd, this Classic Old Fashioned Beef Goulash is pure, satisfying comfort food.
