Some meals make the house smell amazing while they cook, and slow cooker beef goulash is one of them. The rich aroma of tender beef, paprika, tomatoes, and garlic slowly blends, creating a dish that feels as good as it tastes.
This goulash is warm, comforting, and easy to make. A slow cooker does all the work, breaking down the beef until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. The sauce thickens naturally, coating every piece in deep, smoky flavors.
If you want something that’s filling without needing much effort, this recipe is a great choice. It’s simple, rich, and made for busy days.
Why This Slow Cooker Goulash Works So Well
This dish brings together bold flavors while keeping everything simple. A slow cooker allows the beef to soak up the seasoning, making every bite flavorful and tender.
- Low and slow cooking makes the beef incredibly soft. The longer it simmers, the more it absorbs the flavors of tomatoes, garlic, and paprika.
- The sauce thickens naturally as it cooks. There’s no need for extra steps—just let the ingredients work together over time.
- A great meal for feeding a group. The portions are generous, and leftovers taste even better the next day.
This goulash is the kind of dish that’s easy to throw together, yet it always feels like a home-cooked meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Beef Goulash
Each ingredient plays a role in building deep flavors. This recipe keeps things traditional while using simple pantry staples.
- Beef Chuck or Stew Meat – A well-marbled cut works best for slow cooking, becoming fork-tender after hours of simmering.
- Paprika (Sweet and Smoked) – A mix of both types adds depth and warmth without overpowering the dish.
- Tomatoes and Tomato Paste – These create a rich, slightly tangy sauce that coats the beef beautifully.
- Garlic and Onion – Essential aromatics that bring out the best in every other ingredient.
- Beef Broth – Adds richness to the sauce, keeping everything moist and flavorful.
- Bell Peppers – Give the dish a slight sweetness and extra texture.
- Caraway Seeds – A small amount brings out an earthy note that balances the smokiness of the paprika.
Using fresh ingredients enhances the overall taste, making the slow-cooked sauce even better.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Goulash
Once everything is in the slow cooker, this dish takes care of itself. A few small steps before cooking make a difference in the final flavor.
- Sear the Beef First – Browning the beef in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker helps build a deeper, richer flavor.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic – Cooking them lightly before adding them in brings out their natural sweetness.
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients – Stir the tomatoes, broth, paprika, and tomato paste together so everything blends evenly.
- Slow Cook on Low for 6-8 Hours – This allows the beef to soften while the sauce thickens. If short on time, cook on high for 4-5 hours.
- Stir in Bell Peppers at the End – Adding them in the last hour keeps them from getting too soft.
- Serve Hot with Noodles or Potatoes – A warm starch soaks up the sauce and makes the meal even heartier.
Taking these small extra steps makes the dish even more flavorful without adding much effort.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Goulash
Goulash is rich and comforting, so side dishes should balance the flavors without overpowering them. A few fresh, starchy, or light sides make a great pairing.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Buttered Egg Noodles | A classic pairing that absorbs the sauce beautifully. |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Creamy and rich, making each bite even more comforting. |
| Steamed Green Beans | A fresh contrast that balances the deep flavors of the goulash. |
| Crusty Bread | Perfect for soaking up extra sauce. |
| Cucumber Salad | Light and tangy, adding a crisp, refreshing bite. |
| Roasted Carrots | Slight sweetness enhances the smoky paprika flavors. |
| Sauerkraut | A bold, tangy side that brings out the richness of the beef. |
A well-chosen side dish makes the meal feel even more complete without much extra work.
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Storage, Reheating, and Freezing
This goulash tastes even better the next day. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers something to look forward to.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container – Stays fresh for up to 4 days.
- Reheat Gently on the Stovetop – Use low heat and stir occasionally to keep the beef tender.
- Avoid Microwaving on High – This can make the beef dry. Heat in short bursts, stirring between each.
- Freeze for Up to 3 Months – Store in a freezer-safe bag or container. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
With the right storage, this goulash is just as good—if not better—after sitting for a while.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Beef Goulash
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, beef chuck works best, but stew meat or short ribs also work well. Just make sure to cook them long enough to break down properly.
2. Do I have to sear the beef first?
No, but it adds a richer flavor. If skipping this step, expect a slightly lighter taste in the final dish.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish stores well, so making it a day before serving lets the flavors deepen even more.
4. What can I use instead of caraway seeds?
Fennel seeds or cumin can give a similar warm, earthy touch.
5. Is goulash supposed to be spicy?
Not traditionally, but if you like heat, adding a pinch of chili flakes works well without overpowering the dish.
Goulash is a simple, comforting dish that adapts well to personal tastes. A few adjustments make it your own while keeping the core flavors intact.
Slow Cooker Beef Goulash
Equipment
- Slow Cooker For slow simmering the goulash
- Large skillet For searing the beef before slow cooking
- Mixing Bowl For combining sauce ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 medium bell peppers sliced, any color
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes on all sides until browned, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds, stirring until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a light simmer, then pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until beef is tender.
- One hour before serving, add sliced bell peppers and stir gently.
- Serve hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
- Make it spicier by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
Sherry Eiler
Friday 7th of March 2025
Love how simple yet delicious this dish is.
Frank Byrd
Friday 7th of March 2025
Simple, tasty, and easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!