Beef Goulash {Slow Cooker or Oven Recipe}

This Beef Goulash is a rich, hearty dish full of tender beef, warm spices, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Whether I make it in the slow cooker or pop it in the oven, the result is always comforting and deeply satisfying. It’s one of those recipes that fills the kitchen with amazing aromas and makes me excited for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple this recipe is to prepare, with minimal prep and loads of flavor. It’s a true one-pot wonder that doesn’t require browning the meat or fussing over the stove. The beef becomes incredibly tender and the smoked paprika gives the dish a deep, savory warmth. Whether I’m making it for a weekday meal or serving it to guests, it always hits the spot. I also like how easy it is to customize and pair with different sides.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

To slow cook:

• Diced beef (about 700 g or 1.5 lb)

• Onion, peeled and chopped

• Garlic, peeled and crushed (4 cloves)

• Tinned tomatoes (400 g / 14.5 oz)

• Tomato puree

• Beef stock cubes (2, undiluted)

• Paprika

• Sweet smoked paprika

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

To finish:

• Red bell peppers, deseeded and thinly sliced (2)

Directions

To slow cook:

1. I add all the slow cook ingredients to the slow cooker.

2. I cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours or on LOW for 6–8 hours.

3. About 45–60 minutes before serving, I stir in the sliced peppers and continue cooking on HIGH until they’re tender but not mushy.

To oven cook:

1. I place all the ingredients into a lidded ovenproof pan.

2. I bake at 160°C fan / 180°C / Gas Mark 4 / 320°F for 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on the size of the beef cubes.

3. After one hour, I give it a stir and check the liquid level, adding a splash of water if the sauce looks too dry.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time takes just 5 minutes, and cook time is around 4–5 hours in the slow cooker or 1.5–2.5 hours in the oven. It’s ideal for a hands-off dinner I can start early and enjoy later.

Variations

• Add Caraway Seeds: I like to add a teaspoon of caraway seeds for a more traditional Hungarian touch.

• Make it Spicier: I sometimes add a pinch of chili flakes or hot paprika for heat.

• Use Different Peppers: I swap in yellow or green bell peppers depending on what I have on hand.

• More Veggies: I occasionally toss in carrots or mushrooms if I want to bulk it up.

• Creamy Finish: A swirl of sour cream added just before serving adds richness and a nice contrast to the paprika.

Storage/Reheating

I let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each. It also freezes well—I portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Do I need to brown the beef before cooking?

No browning is necessary. I just toss everything into the slow cooker or oven dish, and it cooks beautifully without the extra step.

Can I cook this in advance?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. The flavors develop even more overnight, and it reheats wonderfully.

What cuts of beef are best for goulash?

I use stewing steak or casserole beef—any cut that becomes tender with long, slow cooking works great.

Can I add potatoes or pasta?

I don’t add them directly into the stew, but I love serving it over mashed potatoes, rice, or cooked orzo.

What’s the difference between regular paprika and sweet smoked paprika?

Regular paprika is milder and less smoky, while sweet smoked paprika gives the dish a deep, woodsy flavor I find essential in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Beef Goulash is one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s easy to throw together, full of flavor, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether I use the slow cooker or the oven, it always delivers that rich, tender, savory goodness I crave—especially on a cold evening. Serve it with something starchy to soak up the sauce, and it becomes an instant family favorite.

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