Easy Crockpot Beef Goulash
Warm up with Easy Crockpot Beef Goulash, a hearty, flavorful stew packed with tender beef, paprika, and vibrant vegetables. This fuss-free, slow-cooked dish delivers Hungarian-inspired comfort, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep with rich, savory goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Crockpot Beef Goulash is a soul-warming dish that brings the robust, smoky flavors of Hungarian cuisine to your table with minimal effort. The slow cooker transforms tough beef into tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites, infused with paprika and hearty vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep, this budget-friendly recipe is versatile and customizable to suit various tastes or dietary needs. Its comforting aroma and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser, offering a taste of tradition that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Brown the Beef: Sear beef chunks before slow cooking to lock in flavor and enhance richness.
- Use Quality Paprika: Hungarian sweet paprika delivers authentic flavor; smoked paprika adds depth.
- Adjust Thickness: If too thick, add more broth; if too thin, mix in a cornstarch slurry.
- Chop Veggies Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure consistent cooking and a balanced texture.
- Taste and Season: Adjust salt and paprika at the end, as flavors intensify during cooking.
- Prep Ahead: Assemble ingredients in the crockpot insert and refrigerate overnight for a quick start.
Easy Crockpot Beef Goulash
Easy Crockpot Beef Goulash, a hearty, savory stew perfect for cozy, flavorful weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Prep the Beef: Trim fat from beef and cut into 1-inch cubes; season with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet, sear beef over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes; transfer to a 6-quart crockpot.
- Chop the Veggies: Dice onion, slice carrots, and cube potatoes for a hearty, colorful mix.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes until soft; add to crockpot.
- Add Paprika: Sprinkle paprika over beef and veggies, stirring to coat for bold flavor.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir tomato paste into the crockpot, mixing well to deepen the sauce.
- Pour in Broth: Add beef broth and bay leaf (if using), stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until beef is tender.
- Check and Adjust: Remove bay leaf; if needed, thicken with a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
- Serve with Flair: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and enjoy this warm, comforting goulash!
Notes
- Browning beef enhances flavor but can be skipped; raw beef cooks well in the crockpot.
- For a richer sauce, deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine before adding to the crockpot.
- Leftovers deepen in flavor, making this ideal for next-day meals.
- Serve with crusty bread, egg noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients Notes
- Beef Chuck: Chuck roast is ideal for tenderness; stew meat or brisket can substitute.
- Paprika: Hungarian sweet paprika is key for authentic flavor; smoked or hot paprika adds variety.
- Onion: Yellow onion provides a savory base; red onion offers a milder flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds bold aroma; garlic powder is a quick alternative.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture; parsnips can substitute for a twist.
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape; russets work but may break down.
- Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato paste deepens flavor; canned diced tomatoes can supplement.
- Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth controls saltiness; chicken broth works in a pinch.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Swap: Use pork, lamb, or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version, adjusting cook time.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Include bell peppers, green beans, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add hot paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes for a spicier goulash.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure broth and tomato paste are gluten-free; the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: Swap potatoes for cauliflower or turnips to reduce carbs.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in sour cream or yogurt at the end for a creamy version.
- Grain Addition: Serve over egg noodles or rice for a heartier meal.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth when reheating to restore consistency and prevent drying.
- Meal Prep: Portion with rice or noodles for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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