Crock Pot Goulash: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Dream

Welcome, fellow food lovers, to the heart of comfort cuisine! Few dishes evoke the warmth, richness, and nostalgic embrace quite like a perfectly cooked goulash. And when that goulash is made in a crock pot, it transforms from a delicious meal into an effortless culinary masterpiece. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of `Crock Pot Goulash`, a hearty, soul-satisfsatisfying dish that promises to fill your home with irresistible aromas and your belly with pure happiness. Forget hours slaving over a hot stove; this recipe leverages the magic of slow cooking to deliver fall-apart tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, deeply flavored tomato sauce, all with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this `Crock Pot Goulash` recipe is designed for success, turning simple ingredients into an extraordinary family favorite. Get ready to discover why this slow cooker version of a classic Hungarian-inspired dish is about to become your new weeknight hero, your weekend potluck star, and your go-to for a truly satisfying meal. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to savor the joy of home-cooked goodness with incredible ease.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Crock Pot Goulash Recipe

There are countless reasons why this `Crock Pot Goulash` is destined to become a staple in your kitchen, earning its rightful place in your rotation of beloved comfort foods. First and foremost, it’s the epitome of convenience. Imagine waking up, spending a mere 20-30 minutes on prep, and then letting your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. By dinnertime, you’re greeted with a sensational meal that required virtually no supervision. This hands-off approach makes it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping for the week ahead, or even entertaining guests without the stress of last-minute cooking. The slow cooking process itself is a game-changer. It tenderizes the beef stew meat to an incredible degree, transforming what can sometimes be a tough cut into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The low, consistent heat allows the flavors to meld and deepen over hours, creating a rich, complex sauce that is simply unparalleled.

Beyond convenience, the flavor profile of this `Crock Pot Goulash` is truly exceptional. We’re talking about succulent beef swimming in a vibrant, savory tomato base, infused with the sweet warmth of authentic Hungarian paprika and the subtle, earthy notes of caraway seeds. The bell peppers add a beautiful pop of color and a delightful sweetness that balances the richness of the meat and tomatoes. It’s a symphony of flavors that manages to be both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s a wonderfully adaptable dish. While we serve it over wide egg noodles for that classic goulash experience, it’s equally fantastic over mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of that incredible sauce. This `easy goulash recipe` truly delivers on taste, tenderness, and time-saving, making it a win-win for any home cook looking to bring hearty, delicious meals to their table without the fuss. It’s a dish that feels special but is surprisingly simple to achieve, guaranteeing happy eaters and a well-fed family every time.

Why You Should Try This Hearty Slow Cooker Goulash

If you’re looking for compelling reasons to add this `Crock Pot Goulash` to your culinary repertoire, consider its undeniable practicality and universal appeal. This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a strategic move for efficient and delicious home cooking. One of the primary advantages of this `slow cooker goulash` is its ability to transform humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Beef stew meat, often an economical cut, becomes luxurious and fork-tender after hours of slow simmering. This makes it a budget-friendly option for feeding a family or a crowd, without compromising on flavor or satisfaction. Moreover, it’s an ideal meal for meal prepping. You can make a large batch of `Crock Pot Goulash` on a Sunday, and have delicious, ready-to-reheat dinners throughout the week. The flavors often improve with time, making leftovers even more delightful.

This recipe also shines when it comes to feeding a diverse group. Its rich, savory profile is generally a hit with both adults and children, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a comforting sauce is universally appealing. For those chilly evenings, there’s nothing quite like walking into your home to the comforting aroma of `Crock Pot Goulash` simmering away. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal that rewards you with a truly heartwarming experience. Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this `hearty beef stew` offers a taste of a beloved culinary tradition, adapted for modern, busy lifestyles. It’s a way to enjoy a classic without the extensive effort typically associated with long-simmering stews. So, whether you’re seeking a simple weeknight solution, a crowd-pleasing dish, or just an exceptionally flavorful and comforting meal, this `Crock Pot Goulash` is an absolute must-try. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor and satisfaction can come from such a straightforward process.

Ingredients and Essential Utensils for Perfect Crock Pot Goulash

Creating a truly exceptional `Crock Pot Goulash` begins with selecting the right ingredients and having the proper tools at hand. While the slow cooker does most of the work, the quality of your components and the efficiency of your setup can make all the difference. This recipe is built on a foundation of fresh, flavorful items that contribute to its rich, savory profile.

Key Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Divided for searing and sautéing, olive oil provides a good base for developing initial flavors.
• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1 to 1 1/2-inch cubes: This is the star of your `Crock Pot Goulash`. Opt for chuck roast or beef stew pre-cut if available. The beauty of slow cooking is its ability to break down tougher cuts, resulting in incredibly tender, shreddable beef. You want good marbling for flavor and moisture.
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped: The aromatic foundation. Onions sweeten and soften as they cook, adding depth to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that pungent, savory backbone that complements the beef and tomatoes perfectly.
• 1 large green bell pepper, deseeded and chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter counterpoint and beautiful color to the `slow cooker goulash`.
• 1 large red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped: Sweeter than green bell peppers, the red bell pepper contributes vibrant color and a delightful sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of your `easy goulash recipe`.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich, tangy base of the goulash sauce. Crushed tomatoes provide a good balance of texture and concentrated tomato flavor.
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste: A powerhouse of concentrated tomato flavor. Tomato paste adds incredible depth, umami, and a beautiful richness to the sauce, helping it thicken slightly. Don’t skip this for a truly robust `Crock Pot Goulash`.
• 3 cups beef broth: The liquid medium that allows everything to simmer and meld. Choose a good quality, low-sodium beef broth to control the overall saltiness.
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (Hungarian paprika preferred): This is the soul of authentic goulash. Hungarian sweet paprika offers a beautiful red color and a distinct, rich, slightly sweet flavor that is crucial. Avoid generic paprika if possible; the difference is noticeable in your `hearty beef stew`.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Seasoning is key. Start with this amount and adjust at the end.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a subtle heat and balances the flavors.
• 1 bay leaf: A simple addition that imparts a subtle, herbaceous note, contributing to the overall complexity of the `Crock Pot Goulash`. Remember to remove it before serving!
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for authentic flavor): While optional, caraway seeds provide that quintessential Eastern European goulash flavor. They have a distinctive earthy, slightly aniseseed-like taste that truly elevates the dish. If you want an `authentic goulash recipe`, include these.
• 4-6 cups cooked wide egg noodles, for serving: The classic accompaniment. Their wide, flat surface is perfect for catching all that delicious sauce.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

• 6-quart or larger Crock Pot / Slow Cooker: This is the essential piece of equipment for this `Crock Pot Goulash` recipe. A 6-quart size is ideal for the quantity of ingredients, ensuring there’s enough space for even cooking without overfilling.
• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Crucial for the initial searing of the beef and sautéing of aromatics. A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even browning, which locks in flavor and creates delicious browned bits (fond) for deglazing. This step is vital for the rich taste of your `slow cooker goulash`.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring ingredients, scraping the bottom of the skillet during deglazing, and ensuring everything is well combined in the crock pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of liquids, spices, and other ingredients, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors in your `easy goulash recipe`.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing the beef, onion, garlic, and bell peppers efficiently and safely. Proper knife skills make prep work a breeze.
• Can Opener: For opening the cans of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste.
• Colander: For draining the cooked egg noodles before serving.
• Ladle: For serving generous portions of the `Crock Pot Goulash` over the noodles.
• Serving Bowls: To present your delicious `hearty beef stew`.

Having these ingredients and tools ready will streamline your cooking process and set you up for success in creating a memorable `Crock Pot Goulash` that your family will ask for again and again.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Your Perfect Crock Pot Goulash

Making this `Crock Pot Goulash` is a straightforward process, but paying attention to each step ensures maximum flavor and perfect tenderness. Follow these detailed instructions to create a truly unforgettable meal.

Step 1: Sear the Beef for Depth of Flavor

The first and arguably most crucial step in building a flavorful `Crock Pot Goulash` is searing the beef. This isn’t just about cooking the meat; it’s about developing a deep, caramelized crust that adds layers of rich, savory flavor (known as Maillard reaction) to the final dish.
* **Heat the Oil:** Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be shimmering, but not smoking, indicating it’s hot enough for a good sear.
* **Brown in Batches:** Add the beef stew meat to the hot skillet. **It is essential to work in batches.** Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature, causing the beef to steam rather than sear, which prevents that desirable browning. Leave plenty of space between the pieces of meat.
* **Sear Until Browned:** Allow each side of the beef to sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. Flip and repeat until all sides are beautifully browned. This step significantly enhances the flavor and color of your `slow cooker goulash`.
* **Transfer to Crock Pot:** Once browned, use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the seared beef directly to your 6-quart (or larger) crock pot. Set aside any browned bits remaining in the skillet – these are pure flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

With the beef seared, it’s time to build the aromatic base for your `easy goulash recipe`. This step softens the vegetables and allows their flavors to meld before slow cooking.
* **Add More Oil:** Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet where you seared the beef. The leftover browned bits will infuse the vegetables with extra flavor.
* **Cook Onion:** Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes softened and translucent. Don’t rush this; properly softened onions contribute sweetness.
* **Add Garlic and Peppers:** Stir in the minced garlic and chopped green and red bell peppers. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring, until the peppers begin to soften slightly. They don’t need to be fully cooked, as they will finish cooking in the crock pot.

Step 3: Deglaze the Skillet (Optional, but Recommended)

This step is a chef’s secret for maximizing flavor and creating a richer sauce for your `Crock Pot Goulash`.
* **Scrape the Pan:** If you see browned bits (fond) stuck to the bottom of your skillet, pour in about 1/4 cup of the beef broth. Immediately scrape the bottom of the pan vigorously with a wooden spoon. The liquid will loosen all those flavorful browned bits, dissolving them into a concentrated broth. This process is called deglazing.
* **Transfer Contents:** Pour the entire contents of the skillet, including the sautéed vegetables and any deglazing liquid, into the crock pot with the browned beef.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Now, it’s time to bring all the components of your `hearty beef stew` together in the slow cooker.
* **Add Tomatoes and Broth:** Add the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, the 6-ounce can of tomato paste, and the remaining beef broth (2 3/4 cups, if you used 1/4 cup for deglazing) to the crock pot.
* **Season Generously:** Stir in the 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika (Hungarian paprika if possible!), 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the bay leaf.
* **Consider Caraway Seeds:** If you’re aiming for that authentic Hungarian touch, add 1/2 teaspoon of caraway seeds now. They’ll infuse the goulash with their unique flavor during the long cook time.
* **Gently Stir:** Stir all the ingredients gently but thoroughly to ensure they are well combined. Make sure the beef is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

This is where the `Crock Pot Goulash` magic truly happens.
* **Cover and Cook:** Securely place the lid on your crock pot.
* **Choose Your Setting:**
* **LOW setting:** Cook for 6 to 8 hours. This longer, slower cook time is ideal for maximum tenderness and flavor development.
* **HIGH setting:** Cook for 3 to 4 hours. This is a good option if you’re shorter on time, but ensure the beef still reaches desired tenderness.
* **Check for Tenderness:** The goulash is ready when the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. It should offer no resistance.

Step 6: Final Touches and Seasoning Adjustment

A quick check and adjustment before serving will ensure your `Crock Pot Goulash` is perfectly seasoned.
* **Remove Bay Leaf:** Carefully locate and discard the bay leaf. It has imparted its flavor and is no longer needed.
* **Taste and Adjust:** Give the goulash a good stir and taste it. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a pinch more paprika, depending on your preference.

Step 7: Prepare Noodles for Serving

Timing is everything when serving the `Crock Pot Goulash`.
* **Cook Noodles:** About 20-30 minutes before you plan to serve, prepare 4-6 cups of wide egg noodles according to the package directions.
* **Drain Thoroughly:** Once cooked to al dente, drain the noodles thoroughly. You don’t want watery noodles diluting your rich goulash sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

The moment you’ve been waiting for!
* **Ladle and Serve:** Ladle generous portions of the hot `Crock Pot Goulash` directly over the cooked egg noodles. The noodles will soak up the delicious sauce.
* **Immediate Enjoyment:** Serve immediately and revel in the comforting flavors of your homemade `Crock Pot Goulash`.

This step-by-step guide ensures that even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality `Crock Pot Goulash` with ease. Each stage is designed to build flavor and ensure a tender, delicious outcome every time.

Tips, Tricks, and Delicious Variations for Your Crock Pot Goulash

While our classic `Crock Pot Goulash` recipe is a masterpiece in itself, there are many ways to customize it, troubleshoot common issues, and explore new flavors. This section will help you make the most of your slow cooker goulash and adapt it to various dietary needs or taste preferences.

Ingredient Alternatives & Swaps:

• **Meat Variations:** While beef stew meat is traditional for `Crock Pot Goulash`, you can experiment with other cuts or proteins.
  • **Pork:** Pork shoulder or country-style ribs can be used for a slightly different flavor profile. Adjust cooking time as needed, though they generally tenderize similarly.
  • **Chicken:** For a lighter goulash, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will cook much faster (around 2-3 hours on low), so add them later in the cooking process or reduce total cook time.
  • **Ground Meat:** For a quicker, more Americanized goulash (often called “American Goulash”), you can brown 2 pounds of ground beef or ground turkey and skip the long sear. This changes the texture but can still be delicious and fast.
• **Vegetable Enhancements:**
  • **Carrots and Celery:** Add 1 cup of chopped carrots and 1 cup of chopped celery along with the onions and bell peppers for a classic mirepoix base and added nutrients.
  • **Mushrooms:** Sliced cremini or button mushrooms can be added during the last hour of cooking for an earthy depth.
  • **Potatoes:** For a one-pot meal, add diced potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold) during the last 2-3 hours of cooking on low. This turns your `slow cooker goulash` into a heartier stew.
• **Broth Options:** While beef broth is standard, vegetable broth can be used for a lighter or vegetarian version (see below). Red wine (about 1/2 cup, reducing the beef broth by the same amount) can add an extra layer of richness to the sauce.
• **Spice Adjustments:**
  • **Smoked Paprika:** For a smoky depth, substitute half of the sweet paprika with smoked paprika.
  • **Spicy Kick:** A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle heat if you prefer a spicier `easy goulash recipe`.
• **Serving Alternatives:** Beyond wide egg noodles, consider serving your `Crock Pot Goulash` with:
  • **Mashed Potatoes:** A classic, creamy pairing that’s perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
  • **Rice:** White or brown rice offers a different texture base.
  • **Polenta:** Creamy polenta is a sophisticated and delicious alternative.
  • **Crusty Bread:** Essential for dipping and getting every last drop of the savory sauce.

Specific Dietary Versions:

• **Vegetarian Goulash:** Omit the beef. Sauté a generous amount of sliced mushrooms (cremini or portobello), diced zucchini, and even some chickpeas or lentils (added later) with the onions and peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You’ll still get a rich, flavorful `vegetarian goulash`.
• **Gluten-Free Goulash:** The base of this `Crock Pot Goulash` is naturally gluten-free. Ensure your beef broth is gluten-free. For serving, use gluten-free pasta (like rice or corn-based noodles) or serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
• **Dairy-Free Goulash:** This recipe is naturally dairy-free! No adjustments needed.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• **Don’t Skip the Sear:** This is arguably the most important step for flavor development. Skipping it results in a less rich and less flavorful `slow cooker goulash`. Browning creates deep savory notes that simmering alone cannot achieve.
• **Avoid Overcrowding the Skillet:** When searing beef, give the meat space. Crowding cools the pan and steams the meat, preventing a good crust from forming. Work in batches if necessary.
• **Don’t Lift the Lid Too Often:** Every time you lift the lid of your `Crock Pot` during cooking, you release heat and moisture, extending the cooking time by approximately 20-30 minutes. Resist the urge to peek frequently!
• **Adjust Seasoning at the End:** Salt and pepper amounts can vary based on the saltiness of your broth and personal preference. Always taste and adjust *after* the goulash has finished cooking, as flavors concentrate during slow cooking.
• **Don’t Overcook Vegetables (Initial Sauté):** The initial sauté is just to soften them. They will continue to cook and tenderize in the crock pot. You don’t want them mushy before they even hit the slow cooker.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your `Crock Pot Goulash` turns out perfectly every time, providing a comforting and delicious meal for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this `hearty beef stew` truly your own! For more comforting recipes, explore our collection at Ovia Recipes.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Your Crock Pot Goulash

Beyond its incredible taste and comforting warmth, this `Crock Pot Goulash` offers a variety of nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome addition to your family’s meal plan. While precise values can vary based on specific brands and portion sizes, we can highlight the general nutritional contributions of its key ingredients.

Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate per serving, without noodles):

• **Calories:** A single serving of `Crock Pot Goulash` (without the added noodles) is a substantial meal, typically providing a moderate to high calorie count, ideal for a main course.
• **Protein:** The beef stew meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. Each serving contributes significantly to your daily protein needs.
• **Fats:** The fats primarily come from the beef and olive oil. Beef provides both saturated and unsaturated fats, contributing to satiety and energy. Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats.
• **Carbohydrates:** The primary source of carbohydrates in the goulash itself comes from the vegetables and tomato products. When served with egg noodles, the carbohydrate content increases, providing a good source of energy.
• **Fiber:** Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, important for digestive health and blood sugar regulation.

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• **Beef Stew Meat:**
  • **High-Quality Protein:** Crucial for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting a healthy immune system.
  • **Iron:** Beef is a rich source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body and vital for preventing anemia and ensuring oxygen transport.
  • **B Vitamins:** Packed with B vitamins (B6, B12, Niacin, Riboflavin), which are essential for energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell formation.
  • **Zinc:** Supports immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
• **Bell Peppers (Green & Red):**
  • **Vitamin C:** Especially red bell peppers, are bursting with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production.
  • **Antioxidants:** Contain various antioxidants like beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A in the body, beneficial for vision and skin health.
  • **Fiber:** Contributes to digestive health.
• **Tomatoes (Crushed & Paste):**
  • **Lycopene:** A potent antioxidant found in tomatoes, especially concentrated when cooked, linked to heart health and potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers.
  • **Vitamin C & K:** Good sources of these essential vitamins.
  • **Potassium:** Important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.
• **Onions & Garlic:**
  • **Antioxidants:** Contain compounds that may help protect cells from damage.
  • **Immune Support:** Known for their potential immune-boosting properties.
  • **Flavor Enhancers:** Beyond nutrition, they significantly contribute to the savory depth of your `Crock Pot Goulash`.
• **Paprika:** While used in smaller quantities, paprika contributes antioxidants and capsaicin (especially in spicier varieties), which may have anti-inflammatory benefits.

This `Crock Pot Goulash` is not just a delicious and comforting meal; it’s also a nutritious one, providing essential macronutrients and a wealth of vitamins and minerals. It’s a hearty and satisfying way to nourish your body, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad for an even more complete and well-rounded meal. For more healthy and delicious ideas, check out this Mediterranean Chicken and Orzo recipe or our Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta Skillet if you’re craving another hearty pasta dish.

FAQs About Crock Pot Goulash

Conclusion: Savor the Simplicity of Crock Pot Goulash

And there you have it – the ultimate guide to creating a truly spectacular `Crock Pot Goulash` right in your own kitchen. We’ve explored every facet of this comforting dish, from the essential ingredients and tools to detailed cooking steps, versatile tips, and its impressive nutritional profile. This `easy goulash recipe` proves that you don’t need to spend hours over a hot stove to achieve a meal that tastes like it simmered all day. The magic of the slow cooker transforms simple cuts of beef and fresh vegetables into a melt-in-your-mouth, deeply flavorful `hearty beef stew` that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, or simply a deeply satisfying meal to warm you from the inside out, this `Crock Pot Goulash` delivers on all fronts. Its rich tomato base, tender beef, and vibrant bell peppers, infused with the subtle spice of paprika and caraway, create a symphony of flavors that evoke pure comfort. It’s a testament to the power of low-and-slow cooking, yielding incredible results with minimal effort.

We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of coming home to a perfectly cooked meal. Don’t forget to visit our Pinterest for more inspiring recipe ideas and stunning food photography: Ovia Recipes on Pinterest. If you’ve made this `Crock Pot Goulash` or have your own favorite slow cooker tips, we’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, experiences, and any delicious variations you’ve tried in the comments below. Your feedback helps our community grow and discover new culinary delights. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

Crock Pot Goulash

A hearty and flavorful beef goulash, slow-cooked to tender perfection in your crock pot with rich tomato sauce, sweet paprika, and bell peppers, perfect served over wide egg noodles.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Hungarian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 610 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• 6-Quart or Larger Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
• Wooden Spoon
• Large Pot (for noodles)

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds beef stew meat cut into 1 to 1 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 large yellow onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 large green bell pepper deseeded and chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper deseeded and chopped
• 1 can crushed tomatoes 28 ounce
• 1 can tomato paste 6 ounce
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika Hungarian paprika preferred
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for authentic flavor)
• 4-6 cups cooked wide egg noodles for serving

Instructions

 

Instructions

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid crowding, add the beef stew meat and sear until well browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor significantly. Transfer the browned beef to a 6-quart or larger crock pot.
• Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped green and red bell peppers, and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the peppers begin to soften.
• If there are browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, pour in a small amount of the beef broth (about 1/4 cup) and scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to loosen all the flavorful bits. Pour the contents of the skillet, including the deglazing liquid, into the crock pot with the browned beef.
• Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, the remaining beef broth, sweet paprika, salt, black pepper, bay leaf, and caraway seeds (if using) to the crock pot. Stir all the ingredients gently to ensure they are well combined and the beef is mostly submerged in the liquid.
• Cover the crock pot with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 6 to 8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3 to 4 hours. The goulash is ready when the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
• Once cooking is complete, carefully remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir the goulash and taste it. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
• About 20-30 minutes before serving, prepare the wide egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain them thoroughly once cooked.
• Ladle generous portions of the hot Crock Pot Goulash over the cooked egg noodles. Serve immediately.

Notes

For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce along with the beef broth. This goulash also freezes well; allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Keyword beef, comfort food, crock pot, easy, Goulash, hearty, slow cooker