As I craved something hearty and wholesome to chase away the chill of a winter evening, the thought of Authentic German Goulash popped into my mind like a long-lost friend. This savory delight features fork-tender beef slowly simmered with sweet onions in a rich, paprika-infused gravy that blankets your favorite noodles or dumplings. Beyond its comforting allure, this dish also boasts simple preparation and can be made ahead, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Each bite envelops you in warmth, offering not just a taste of Germany but a delightful embrace of home-style cooking. Ready to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and create lasting memories? Let’s dive into this traditional recipe!

Why is German Goulash so comforting?

Rich, Hearty Flavor: The combination of tender beef and sweet onions in a luscious paprika gravy creates an indulgent taste experience that warms the heart.
Simple Preparation: This dish requires minimal steps, making it an easy choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over fluffy Spätzle, dumplings, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that pleases everyone.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this goulash is sure to be a hit, bringing smiles all around.
Make-Ahead Perfection: Prepare it a day in advance to let the flavors meld, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or special occasions. If you’re looking for more comfort food ideas, check out our hearty stew recipes for more inspiration!

German Goulash Ingredients

• Embrace the flavors of home-cooked comfort.

For the Goulash

Stewing Beef – Cut into 1/2 to 1-inch chunks; it’s essential for a rich and hearty German goulash.
Oil – 1 tablespoon; used for browning the beef to lock in those delicious flavors.
Yellow Onion – 1 large, diced (about 400 g); adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Dry Red Wine – 1 cup (e.g., cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir); provides acidity and richness. If avoiding alcohol, substitute with more beef broth.
Tomato Paste – 3 tablespoons; deepens the flavor of the sauce and adds a lovely color.
Hungarian Paprika – 3 tablespoons; the key seasoning that brings warmth and sweetness—imported for authenticity is best!
Dried Marjoram – 1/2 teaspoon; introduces aromatic notes that elevate your goulash.
Salt – 1 teaspoon; enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground; adds warmth and seasoning to the goulash.
Beef Broth – 2 cups; serves as the base liquid for simmering the beef and bringing everything together.
Bay Leaf – 1; imparts a subtle depth of flavor during cooking.
Cornstarch – 2 teaspoons dissolved in 2 tablespoons water; thickens the sauce to perfection for that hearty texture.

Enjoy creating this soul-warming dish filled with love and tradition!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for German Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the stewing beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the beef chunks for about 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a rich, brown crust. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Onions
In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the onions for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and translucent. The sweet aroma of the onions will fill your kitchen, creating a warm base for the German Goulash.

Step 3: Add Garlic
Once the onions are golden, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to infuse its flavor into the mixture. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter. This step enhances the overall richness of the German Goulash.

Step 4: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in 1 cup of dry red wine and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful browned bits. Let the wine simmer for about 3-4 minutes until it reduces by half, intensifying the flavors of your goulash.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 3 tablespoons of Hungarian paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of dried marjoram, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, letting the paprika brighten the mixture and infuse its warmth into the goulash.

Step 6: Add Broth and Simmer
Return the browned beef to the skillet and pour in 2 cups of beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the goulash simmer gently for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and full of flavor.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
After the beef has become tender, dissolve 2 teaspoons of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the goulash. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve
Serve your authentic German Goulash hot over fluffy Spätzle, dumplings, or egg noodles. This hearty dish is sure to warm you from the inside out, showcasing the rich flavors that make it a beloved comfort food.

Expert Tips for German Goulash

Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality stewing beef, like chuck, ensures your German Goulash will be flavorful and tender. Avoid tough cuts!
Watch Your Spices: Hungarian paprika is key to authentic flavor; be sure to use imported paprika rather than local varieties for the best taste!
Don’t Rush Cooking: Slow simmering is crucial to develop deep flavors, so don’t skip the hour of cooking—your patience pays off in tenderness.
Adjust for Thickness: For a richer sauce, add cornstarch gradually until you achieve your preferred consistency while stirring often to prevent lumps.
Enhance with Veggies: Consider adding diced bell peppers or root vegetables to the mix for additional flavors and nutrition in your goulash.

What to Serve with Authentic German Goulash?

Savor the heartwarming experience of elevating your meal with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with this robust dish.

Fluffy Spätzle: These traditional German noodles soak up the rich gravy perfectly, providing a delightful contrast in texture. They’re simply a must-have alongside your Goulash!
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness pairs beautifully with the hearty sauce, making each bite a comforting experience of flavor and warmth.
German Red Cabbage: This tangy-sweet side adds vibrant color and a refreshing crunch, cutting through the richness of the beef goulash and balancing the meal perfectly.
Hearty Dumplings: Soft and pillowy, they are perfect for mopping up the delicious gravy, giving you a satisfying texture and flavor contrast.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad brings a refreshing element to your plate, enhancing the flavors of your comforting goulash.
Bohemian Beer: A cold, crisp lager complements the robust flavors of your German Goulash, making for a delightful pairing as you enjoy a night of comfort cooking.

Feel free to mix and match from this comforting ensemble to create your ideal spread!

German Goulash Variations Made Easy

Feel free to personalize this comforting dish with delightful twists that awaken your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter while browning the meat and skip any dairy toppings for a satisfying option.
Add Vegetables: Toss in diced bell peppers or carrots during the onion stage for a vibrant, nutritious boost.
Spicy Kick: Level up your goulash with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for an exciting heat.
Beer Twist: Substitute dark beer for red wine to craft a Bavarian-style goulash with deep, rich flavor.
Herb Upgrade: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of marjoram for a unique aromatic profile.
Noodle Change: Swap traditional Spätzle with egg noodles or potato dumplings for different textures that each bring their own charm.
Slow Cooker: Adapt this recipe for easy slow cooking; just combine all ingredients and let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low.
Easy Make-Ahead: Prepare the goulash a day in advance to let the flavors mingle, making it an excellent option for busy evenings!

For more incredible comfort food recipes, check out our hearty stew ideas; there’s something to suit every craving!

Make Ahead Options

Authentic German Goulash is a fantastic recipe to make ahead for those busy weeknights! You can prepare the goulash base (steps 1-6) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions through the simmering stage, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of extra beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce. When ready to serve, thicken the sauce with the cornstarch mixture (step 7) and enjoy a meal that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made! This prep-ahead tip helps you save time while still delivering hearty comfort in every bite.

How to Store and Freeze German Goulash

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving German Goulash out for more than 2 hours to prevent food safety issues. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious on reheating.
Freezer: Freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve quality.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much. Enjoy the comforting taste of your German Goulash!

Authentic German Goulash Recipe FAQs

What type of stewing beef should I use for German Goulash?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose high-quality cuts like chuck or brisket, which become tender after slow cooking. Avoid tough cuts that won’t break down well, as they can make the dish chewy and less enjoyable.

How long can I store leftover German Goulash in the fridge?
You can store your German Goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often find that the flavors deepen and develop even more richness when it sits overnight!

Can I freeze German Goulash, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze German Goulash! After letting it cool completely, transfer it into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, pressing out as much air as possible. This allows it to be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it’s too thick.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?
No worries! If your German Goulash sauce is too thin, dissolve a teaspoon or two of cornstarch in a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering goulash. Allow it to cook for a couple more minutes until it thickens, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This little trick works like a charm!

Are there any dietary considerations for German Goulash?
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, be mindful of your ingredients. For those avoiding alcohol, simply use additional beef broth instead of red wine. You can also swap out any spices or seasonings based on your needs. Always check the packaging of any prepared ingredients for potential allergens!