Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of paprika and simmering beef wafts through the kitchen, a feeling of warmth envelops me, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Creamy German Goulash is more than just a meal; it’s a generous hug in a bowl, blending tender beef, hearty potatoes, and a velvety sauce that’s perfect for cozy evenings. This comforting dish not only warms the soul but is also wonderfully easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite and a wonderful crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Imagine the smiles as friends and family dig into their bowls, savoring each bite of this hearty delight. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into making this delightful creamy German goulash together! Why is Creamy German Goulash Irresistible? Comforting, Hearty Dish: This creamy German goulash is the essence of warmth, offering a perfect combination of tender beef and filling potatoes. Flavor Explosion: Infused with rich spices like paprika and caraway, every spoonful delights the taste buds and satisfies the soul. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks will feel like kitchen pros while creating this delicious meal. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at dinner parties or family gatherings, and watch everyone come back for seconds! Pair with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for a complete feast. Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers are just as scrumptious, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights, especially when paired with Garlic Parmesan Pasta. Experience the joy of sharing hearty goodness with loved ones—your kitchen will never be the same! Creamy German Goulash Ingredients Get ready to explore the delightful components that make this comforting dish come to life! For the Meat Beef chuck – The main protein source that tenderizes beautifully during slow cooking; substitute with stew meat or brisket if preferred. For the Vegetables Onions – Adds a sweet depth of flavor; yellow or white onions yield the best results. Garlic – Elevates the aroma significantly; fresh minced garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works well in a pinch. Red and yellow bell peppers – Offer sweetness and vibrant color; feel free to use any variety you have on hand. Potatoes – Act as a hearty filler absorbing all the flavors; sweet potatoes can be a delightful alternative. For the Sauce Olive oil – Perfect for browning the beef; can be swapped with vegetable or canola oil. Sweet paprika – Gives the dish its signature color and subtle sweetness; regular paprika can be used in a pinch. Smoked paprika – Adds a smoky richness; chipotle powder is a spicy alternative if desired. Tomato paste – Provides depth and a touch of acidity; canned tomatoes can be substituted for a richer flavor. Diced tomatoes – Contributes moisture and flavor; fresh tomatoes are great if they’re in season. Beef broth – The cooking liquid that enriches the whole dish; vegetable broth can create a lighter version. Dry red wine – Optional, but it enhances the flavor; substitute with additional broth if avoiding alcohol. For the Seasoning Caraway seeds – Offers a distinctive taste characteristic of goulash; don’t worry if you don’t have any on hand. Marjoram – Herb that elevates the flavor profile; Italian seasoning can stand in beautifully. Cayenne pepper – Adds optional heat; swap with chili powder for a milder flavor. Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste for the perfect finishing touch. For the Creaminess Sour cream – Imparts creaminess and tang; crème fraîche or a dairy-free alternative can also work wonders. All-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to perfection; cornstarch is a great gluten-free alternative. For Serving Fresh parsley – Ideal for garnishing and adds a pop of color; other herbs like dill can be delightful too. Noodles or Spaetzle – Traditionally served with goulash; rice or crusty bread can substitute perfectly. Each ingredient in this Creamy German Goulash plays a vital role in creating a comforting culinary experience that’s sure to become a cherished family favorite. Happy cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy German Goulash Step 1: Prepare the Beef Begin by patting the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt and black pepper. This step helps achieve a delicious browning. Next, heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the beef in batches, browning for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a nice caramelized crust forms. Remove the browned beef and set it aside. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In the same Dutch oven, reduce the heat to medium and toss in the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant. This adds a wonderful sweetness to your creamy German goulash. Once done, sprinkle in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld and awaken. Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste Stir the sweet and smoked paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and a pinch of cayenne pepper into the onion-garlic mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Cook for approximately 1-2 minutes until the spices release their aromatic oils. Next, mix in a tablespoon of tomato paste, stirring continuously for another minute to deepen the flavors and create a rich base for your goulash. Step 4: Deglaze the Pot Pour in the beef broth and the dry red wine, if using, stirring gently to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step adds depth to your creamy German goulash. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer before returning the previously seared beef back into the Dutch oven, along with diced tomatoes and bell peppers, creating a vibrant color palette. Step 5: Simmer to Tenderness Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the goulash to simmer for 2-3 hours. Keep an eye on it, ensuring a low simmer, which helps the beef become tender and absorb the rich flavors. After a couple of hours, your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering aromas as the goulash develops its character. Step 6: Incorporate the Potatoes After the beef has softened beautifully, add your cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir them gently into the simmering goulash, allowing them to soak up the flavors. Cover the pot again, continuing to simmer for another 30-45 minutes until the potatoes become tender and melt-in-your-mouth soft. Step 7: Create the Creamy Sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and all-purpose flour until smooth, forming a lovely creamy mixture. To temper this mixture, ladle in a bit of the hot goulash liquid, stirring constantly. This step helps prevent curdling when you combine it back into the pot. Carefully stir in the sour cream mixture into the goulash, letting it thicken slightly without bringing it to a boil. Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve Taste your creamy German goulash and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as desired. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring gently until everything is heated through. Finally, serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, and alongside noodles or spaetzle to soak up that decadent sauce. Enjoy the rich, hearty flavors! Creamy German Goulash Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with your creamy German goulash, transforming it to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Wine-Free Version: Substitute the dry red wine with additional beef broth for a completely alcohol-free option. Vegetarian Delight: Use hearty mushrooms instead of beef, and swap broth with vegetable broth for a comforting vegetarian dish. Dairy-Free Twist: Replace sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy. Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to introduce a savory depth of flavor. Heat It Up: Infuse some heat by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to invigorate the dish. Veggie-Packed Goulash: Toss in extra vegetables like sweet corn or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. They’ll absorb the goulash’s rich sauce beautifully. Sausage Addition: For a heartier dish, mix in slices of smoked sausage or kielbasa to enhance the flavor profile with smoky goodness. Herb Enhancer: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to stir in fresh flavors at the end of cooking, giving your goulash a unique twist. As you enjoy whipping up this dish, consider making it a side of creamy shrimp corn bisque or creamy spinach tortellini for a perfect meal spread that will leave everyone content! Make Ahead Options Creamy German Goulash is a fantastic dish for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply brown the beef, sauté the onions, add spices, and mix in the broth, then refrigerate the mixture. When ready to serve, just bring the mixture to a simmer, add the potatoes, and follow the remaining steps. Additionally, you can whisk the sour cream and flour mixture a few hours prior and store it separately to maintain its creamy consistency. This way, you’ll enjoy a hearty and comforting meal that tastes just as delicious as if you made it all in one go! What to Serve with Creamy German Goulash As you dish up this hearty delight, think about the wonderful accompaniments that can transform your meal into a feast for the senses. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: With their rich butter and cream, they perfectly complement the velvety sauce of the goulash, creating a harmony of textures. Crusty Artisan Bread: A fresh loaf adds a rustic touch, perfect for soaking up every bit of that savory goulash sauce, enhancing the experience. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispy edges offer a delightful contrast to the creamy and rich flavors, balancing the overall meal. Sweet and Tangy Cabbage Salad: The crunch and acidity of a cabbage salad brighten the palate, making each bite of goulash even more satisfying. German Beer: A traditional pairing, the beer’s crisp and refreshing taste complements the hearty flavors of the goulash, enhancing the dining experience. Apfelstrudel: This warm, cinnamon-laced dessert offers a sweet finale, contrasting wonderfully with the savory main dish and leaving guests wanting more. Elevate your dinner table with these delicious pairings, ensuring that your Creamy German Goulash meal is as memorable as it is comforting! How to Store and Freeze Creamy German Goulash Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Portion out the creamy German goulash in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to restore creaminess if needed. Avoid boiling after adding any cream-based ingredients. Expert Tips for Creamy German Goulash Proper Browning: Ensure the beef is patted dry and seasoned before browning; this prevents steaming and enhances flavor through caramelization. Slow Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering process; low and slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and absorb the rich goulash sauce. Sour Cream Care: Gradually temper the sour cream mixture with hot goulash liquid before stirring into the pot to avoid curdling. Monitor Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the pot during simmering; add more beef broth as needed to maintain the desired consistency. Flavor Adjustments: If you feel the dish is lacking depth, consider adding a splash more wine or spices; remember to do this gradually to keep the balance. Embrace these tips to master your Creamy German Goulash and warm the hearts of those you love! Creamy German Goulash Recipe FAQs How do I select the best beef for my Creamy German Goulash? Absolutely! For your goulash, I recommend using beef chuck, as it’s the perfect cut for slow cooking, becoming wonderfully tender. Look for meat with a good marbling of fat, as this will enhance the flavor and juiciness. If beef chuck isn’t available, stew meat or brisket are great substitutes! How should I store leftovers from my Creamy German Goulash? Very well! You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up, as this helps maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat gently on the stovetop. Can I freeze Creamy German Goulash? Absolutely! To freeze your goulash, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight, and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to restore creaminess. What if my goulash is too thick after cooking? No worries! If you find your Creamy German Goulash is thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of beef broth or even water to reach your desired consistency. Over medium heat, gently stir and let it simmer for a few minutes until warmed through. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! If you have specific dietary needs, you can easily make adjustments. For a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free pasta. You can also switch sour cream with a dairy-free alternative or crème fraîche for a different twist. Always remember to adjust for any allergies you or your guests may have! What should I serve with my Creamy German Goulash? The more, the merrier! Traditionally, it’s served with noodles or spaetzle. However, crusty bread or even a fresh side salad pairs beautifully as well. Feel free to get creative—your goulash will shine alongside whatever you choose! Creamy German Goulash: A Cozy Bowl of Hearty Comfort Creamy German Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish, blending tender beef and potatoes with a velvety sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 3 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: GermanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meat2 pounds beef chuck substitute with stew meat or brisket if preferredFor the Vegetables2 onions yellow or white onions yield the best results4 cloves garlic fresh minced garlic is ideal, but garlic powder works well1 cup red bell pepper feel free to use any variety1 cup yellow bell pepper feel free to use any variety3 medium potatoes cubed; sweet potatoes can be a delightful alternativeFor the Sauce2 tablespoons olive oil can be swapped with vegetable or canola oil2 tablespoons sweet paprika regular paprika can be used1 teaspoon smoked paprika chipotle powder is a spicy alternative1 tablespoon tomato paste canned tomatoes can be substituted for richer flavor1 can diced tomatoes fresh tomatoes are great if they’re in season4 cups beef broth vegetable broth can create a lighter version1 cup dry red wine optional; substitute with additional broth if avoiding alcoholFor the Seasoning1 teaspoon caraway seeds can omit if not available1 teaspoon marjoram Italian seasoning can be used1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper swap with chili powder for milder flavorto taste salt essential for seasoningto taste black pepper essential for seasoningFor the Creaminess1 cup sour cream crème fraîche or a dairy-free alternative can work2 tablespoons all-purpose flour cornstarch is a great gluten-free alternativeFor Serving2 tablespoons fresh parsley for garnishing3 cups noodles or spaetzle traditionally served with goulash Equipment Dutch oven Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy German GoulashBegin by patting the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt and black pepper.Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the beef in batches, browning for about 3-4 minutes on each side.Remove the browned beef and set it aside.In the same Dutch oven, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until translucent.Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.Stir in sweet and smoked paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and cayenne pepper, cooking for 1-2 minutes.Mix in a tablespoon of tomato paste for another minute.Pour in the beef broth and dry red wine, stirring gently to scrape up browned bits.Bring to a simmer and return the seared beef, along with diced tomatoes and bell peppers.Cover and reduce heat to low, simmering for 2-3 hours until beef is tender.Add cubed potatoes to the pot and simmer for another 30-45 minutes until tender.Whisk together sour cream and all-purpose flour until smooth. Temper with hot goulash liquid.Stir this mixture into the goulash and allow it to thicken slightly without boiling.Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as desired. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and alongside noodles or spaetzle. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 4mg NotesProper browning of the beef enhances flavor; monitor liquid levels while simmering, and gradually temper the sour cream to avoid curdling. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
