There’s something incredibly comforting about slow cooker meals, isn’t there? They fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and promise a hearty meal waiting for you after a long day. My slow cooker Hungarian goulash is a true favorite in my kitchen; it’s a dish that warms the soul with its rich flavors and tender beef. Each bite is like a warm hug! I remember the first time I made it for my friends, and they couldn’t get enough. The combination of spices, tender meat, and vibrant veggies creates a harmony of taste that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple at your table too!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash
Making my slow cooker Hungarian goulash is as easy as pie, and I’m here to guide you through it step by step! You don’t need to be a pro chef to whip this up. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Seasoning the Beef
First things first, let’s season that beef! Take your 2 lbs of beef chuck and cut it into cubes. Sprinkle it generously with salt and pepper—this is where the flavor begins. Don’t be shy; you want that seasoning to penetrate the meat. Set it aside while you prep the other ingredients.
Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Now, grab your trusty slow cooker. Add the seasoned beef to it, followed by the chopped onions, minced garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds. This layering is key! The spices mingle beautifully with the beef as it cooks, creating a symphony of flavors. Next, toss in the bell pepper and sliced carrots for a pop of color and nutrition. Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes—this will keep everything moist and flavorful. Give it a gentle stir to combine all those lovely ingredients.
Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, depending on your schedule. If you’re not sure when it’ll be done, check the beef for tenderness—when it falls apart easily, it’s ready to rock! If you like a thicker sauce, just remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to let it reduce a bit. You’ll know you’ve nailed it when your kitchen smells amazing and the goulash is bubbling away!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: With just a bit of chopping and seasoning, this dish practically cooks itself!
- Flavorful and hearty: Each bite is packed with rich flavors, tender beef, and vibrant veggies that warm you from the inside out.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!
- Great for gatherings: Serve it at parties or family dinners, and watch everyone come back for seconds (or thirds!).
- Comforting dish for cold days: There’s nothing like a bowl of goulash on a chilly evening to make you feel cozy and satisfied.
Tips for Success
To ensure your slow cooker Hungarian goulash turns out just perfect, here are my favorite tips! First, don’t skip the seasoning; it really makes a difference in flavor! Taste the broth before serving—if it needs a little more oomph, add a pinch of salt or a dash of paprika to brighten it up. For a delightful texture, let the goulash rest for a few minutes after cooking; it helps the flavors meld together beautifully. And if you like a thicker sauce, remember to remove the lid for the last hour of cooking, letting it reduce nicely. Serve it up with some crusty bread or over a bed of egg noodles for a comforting meal that your family will adore!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, my slow cooker Hungarian goulash doesn’t just taste great; it also packs a nutritious punch! Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 5g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you choose. The beef chuck provides a hearty dose of protein, while the vegetables like onions, carrots, and bell peppers add fiber and vitamins, making this dish not just satisfying but also nutritious. So, you can feel good about enjoying every delicious spoonful of this comforting classic!
FAQ About Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash
Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! While I love the richness of beef chuck in my slow cooker Hungarian goulash, you can totally swap it out for other meats. Turkey or pork are fantastic alternatives that work beautifully in this recipe. Just remember that cooking times might vary slightly, especially with leaner meats, so keep an eye on tenderness. Whichever meat you choose, the spices and veggies will still shine through!
How can I make it spicier?
If you’re like me and enjoy a little heat, there are several ways to spice things up! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix before cooking. Another fun option is to toss in some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce right before serving. Adjust to your taste, and you’ll have a goulash that’s got a delightful kick!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can definitely freeze any leftovers from your slow cooker Hungarian goulash! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. It’s like having a taste of comfort on demand!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my slow cooker Hungarian goulash, you’ve got some delicious options to consider! I love pairing it with thick slices of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up all that rich sauce. You can also serve it over egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top can really elevate the dish. And don’t forget a simple green salad on the side to balance out the hearty flavors—it’s a match made in heaven!
Print
Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash: 5 Comforting Secrets
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Hungarian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty slow cooker Hungarian goulash with tender beef and rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the beef with salt and pepper.
- In the slow cooker, combine beef, onions, garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds.
- Add bell pepper, carrots, beef broth, and diced tomatoes.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve hot with bread or noodles.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last hour of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: slow cooker hungarian goulash