As the first chill of autumn settles in, my mind drifts to the hearty dishes that warm both the kitchen and the heart. Enter Creamy German Goulash—a timeless comfort food that fills the room with the inviting aroma of sautéed onions and smoky paprika. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious experience, featuring tender beef and velvety potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce.
I first encountered this gem during a cozy gathering with friends, and it quickly became the star of the show. With its customizable flavors—be it a kick of spice or a vegetarian twist—this goulash is effortlessly adaptable, ensuring it’s perfect for any palate or occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or searching for a fulfilling weeknight meal, this goulash promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and embrace the comforting experience it offers!
Why is Creamy German Goulash so special?
Comforting Warmth: This dish wraps you in a blanket of rich, creamy flavors, perfect for chilly nights.
Customizable Delight: Whether you love spice or need a vegetarian option, it easily adapts to suit your taste.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, it creates a mouthwatering meal without hassle.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and guests with its robust, hearty character; leftovers won’t last long!
Cost-Effective: Utilizing simple ingredients, it’s budget-friendly yet feels indulgent.
For more delicious dinner ideas, check out our collection of comforting recipes.
Creamy German Goulash Ingredients
For the Goulash
- Beef chuck – Adds richness and tenderness; cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Substitute with pork or a beef alternative for a different flavor.
- Onions – Provide base flavor; chopped to enhance sweetness when cooked. Can use shallots for a milder taste.
- Olive oil – For browning beef and sautéing vegetables; use canola or vegetable oil if preferred.
- Sweet paprika – Delivers a mild pepper flavor; essential to achieve classic goulash taste. Smoked paprika can create a deeper flavor.
- Smoked paprika – Adds a smoky depth; optional but enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Caraway seeds – Offer a unique, earthy flavor; omit or substitute with cumin if not available.
- Marjoram – Introduces an aromatic herbal note; oregano can be a good replacement.
- Cayenne pepper – Provides optional heat; adjust based on spiciness preference.
- Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; minced for a robust aroma.
- Tomato paste – Adds richness and depth; necessary for sauce thickness.
- Beef broth – Base liquid for the goulash; homemade or store-bought options work well.
- Dry red wine – Optional, but recommended to deepen flavors; feel free to substitute with additional broth for non-drinkers.
- Diced tomatoes – Contribute acidity and texture; use fresh tomatoes if desired.
- Bell peppers (red, yellow) – Add sweetness and color; can substitute with green peppers.
- Potatoes – Provide heartiness to the dish; any variety can be used, but waxy types hold shape better.
- Sour cream – Adds creaminess and balances flavors; crème fraîche can be a substitute for a different tang.
- All-purpose flour – Used to thicken the sauce; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste.
- Fresh parsley – For garnish; optional but adds freshness to the final dish.
- Noodles or Spätzle – Traditional serving options; can substitute with rice or serve on its own.
How to Make Creamy German Goulash
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Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step helps to enhance the meat’s flavor when browning.
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Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. This oil is key for browning; it’s ready when it shimmers slightly.
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Brown the Beef: Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice crust. Once done, set aside the browned beef.
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Sauté the Onions: In the same pot, toss in the chopped onions, sautéing them for about 5-7 minutes until they turn soft and translucent. They should start to sweeten, infusing the goulash with flavor.
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Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute or until fragrant, letting those lovely aromas fill your kitchen.
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Incorporate Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste and cook it for another minute, stirring well to combine. This will deepen the richness of your sauce.
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Mix in Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and dry red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift up any delicious browned bits. This added flavor will enhance the goulash beautifully.
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Combine Beef and Vegetables: Return the browned beef to the pot along with the diced tomatoes and bell peppers. Stir to combine everything evenly.
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Simmer Away: Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours. You want the beef to become tender, so stir occasionally and add broth if necessary to keep everything submerged.
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Add Potatoes Last: After about 2 hours, add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Create the Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and flour until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the hot goulash liquid to avoid curdling, and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Final Seasoning: Give it a taste and season with extra salt and pepper if needed. Remember, this is a dish best served hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a lovely touch!
Optional: Top with a dollop of extra sour cream for a richer texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy German Goulash?
Looking to create a complete and comforting meal to accompany your creamy masterpiece?
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Soft Spaetzle: The tender, egg-based noodles soak up the rich sauce beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. They add a wonderful texture that rounds out the meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness complements the flavors of the goulash perfectly, while their richness harmonizes with the dish’s creaminess.
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Crusty Bread: Lightly toasted sourdough or rustic bread provides a satisfying crunch that invites you to scoop up every last bit of goulash, enhancing your dining experience.
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, offering a refreshing contrast that balances the hearty nature of the goulash.
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Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, bring earthy flavors and vibrant colors to the table, creating a fulfilling and visually appealing meal.
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German Beer: Pairing with a chilled lager or hefeweizen accentuates the dish’s flavor profile, offering a delightful way to unwind and savor each bite.
For dessert, consider serving a warm apple strudel or a rich chocolate cake to complete the comforting meal with a sweet finale!
Creamy German Goulash Variations
Feel free to get creative with your goulash! Here are some delightful twists to make this dish your own.
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Vegetarian: Swap beef for hearty mushrooms or diced eggplant for a plant-based twist that still delivers rich flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick that warms the soul. Adjust according to your heat preference!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and substitute traditional noodles with zucchini noodles or rice to keep the comfort without the gluten.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile with aromatic notes that dance in every bite.
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Creamy Variations: Mix in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for a unique twist on creaminess that also adds a hint of sweetness.
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Extra Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped carrots and peas along with your bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch, enriching the dish with vibrant color.
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Red Wine Twist: Stir in a half cup of dry red wine for a luxurious depth of flavor. It’s a classic addition that pairs beautifully with beef!
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Add Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors, adding a refreshing zest to your hearty goulash.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and tailor your creamy goulash to perfectly fit your flavors and preferences!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy German Goulash
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
- Freezer: This goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid boiling the sour cream to prevent curdling.
- Quality Check: If the goulash develops any off smells or drastic texture changes after freezing, it’s best to discard it and make fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy German Goulash preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade comfort with minimal effort. You can chop the vegetables and measure out the spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can brown the beef and sauté the onions, then refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the remaining steps to heat the mixture, and add the remaining ingredients like potatoes, sour cream, and broth. This way, you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready to enjoy in no time, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that day!
Expert Tips for Creamy German Goulash
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Brown the Beef Properly: Ensure the beef cubes are well browned on all sides for maximum flavor development; avoid overcrowding the pot to prevent steaming.
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Adjust the Liquid: Monitor the liquid levels during simmering; add more broth if necessary to keep the beef submerged for even cooking and rich flavor.
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Cautious with Sour Cream: Gradually blend in sour cream to avoid curdling; temper it with some hot goulash liquid before stirring it in for a creamy finish.
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Customize Your Goulash: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to your taste, ensuring your Creamy German Goulash perfectly suits your palate.
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Simmer for Tenderness: Low and slow is the key; allow the goulash to simmer for at least 2-3 hours to ensure the beef becomes fork-tender and flavorful.
Creamy German Goulash Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best beef for Creamy German Goulash?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness in your goulash, choose beef chuck. Look for well-marbled cuts as they provide rich flavor. Avoid overly lean cuts, as they can become dry during cooking. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can also substitute with pork or a beef alternative.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I recommend reheating gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain the goulash’s creamy texture. If you’re not finishing it all right away, refrain from adding sour cream until you’re ready to serve it.
Can I freeze Creamy German Goulash?
Yes, you can! Portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stovetop over medium heat while stirring gently.
What should I do if my goulash is too thick?
If your goulash turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a little warm beef broth or water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. Stir well and allow it to simmer briefly for flavors to meld.
Are there any dietary considerations for Creamy German Goulash?
Absolutely! If you’re making this dish gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, keep an eye on sour cream alternatives if you need to accommodate dairy allergies; plain coconut yogurt can work as a delightful substitute.
How can I customize the flavor of my goulash?
Very! This creamy goulash is incredibly versatile. You can crank up the heat with cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce. If you’re looking to add more veggies, consider incorporating sliced mushrooms or other bell peppers. Feel free to adjust spices to suit your preferred flavor profile!
Creamy German Goulash: The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions for about 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and dry red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift up browned bits.
- Return the browned beef to the pot along with diced tomatoes and bell peppers; stir to combine.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- After about 2 hours, add cubed potatoes; cook for an additional 30-45 minutes until tender.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and flour until smooth; stir into the hot goulash liquid.
- Taste and season with extra salt and pepper if needed; garnish with fresh parsley before serving.