Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero. This recipe transforms tender beef and classic Hungarian spices into a rich, hearty dish with minimal effort. It’s my go-to slow cooker meal for busy days—just prep, set, and forget it. The result? A deeply flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth goulash that’s perfect for cozy family meals.

I stumbled upon this easy Hungarian goulash recipe when I craved authentic comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Traditional Hungarian goulash involves simmering on the stove and constant stirring, but my version streamlines everything—you’ll be amazed by how simple it is! Trust me, your slow cooker will handle all the heavy lifting while you catch up on other things. Let’s get started!

Why This Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Is a Game-Changer

Hands-off cooking: After the quick prep, your slow cooker works its magic for 6 hours, freeing up your day.
No babysitting: Traditional Hungarian goulash requires attentive simmering—this version doesn’t!
Rich flavor: The slow cooker lets the spices and beef meld together beautifully, producing authentic Hungarian taste.
One-pot convenience: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash

To make this best beef goulash slow cooker recipe effortless, you only need a few tools:

A slow cooker: Any size works, but I recommend at least a 5-quart slow cooker for ease of stirring and cooking.
A large skillet: Essential for browning the beef and sautéing aromatics before transferring them.
Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate spice and liquid measurements.
Mixing bowl: To toss the beef in spices.

Pro Tip: If you don’t own a slow cooker yet, look for one with programmable settings so you can adjust the cooking time to fit your schedule.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash

This recipe keeps things simple with easy-to-find ingredients that deliver maximum flavor. Here are the must-haves:

Beef chuck roast: This cut becomes super tender after slow cooking. Cut it into 1 ½-inch pieces for perfect bite-sized chunks.
Hungarian paprika: Sweet and hot paprika create the characteristic flavor. You can find Hungarian paprika at most grocery stores or online.
Caraway seeds: These little seeds add a hint of earthy, licorice-like depth that’s essential for authentic Hungarian goulash.
Crushed tomatoes: These add just the right amount of richness and body to the goulash broth.

Tip: Want to save more time? Grab pre-chopped onions and bell peppers from the produce aisle.

Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Recipe Details

Servings: 4 servings
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 6 hours, 20 minutes
Total: 6 hours, 40 minutes

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash

2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
2 teaspoons sweet Hungarian paprika
1 teaspoon hot paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
2 cups sweet onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tablespoons flour, all-purpose or gluten-free
2 cups red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
1 cup crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon caraway seeds, plus more for garnish
2 teaspoons brown sugar (optional)
1 dry bay leaf
Sour cream (optional for serving)

How to Make Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash

Prep the beef: In a large mixing bowl, toss the beef pieces with sweet paprika, hot paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and coat with cooking spray. Sear the beef in two batches, browning all sides, then transfer to the slow cooker.
Cook the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onions, garlic, and flour. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until aromatic. Transfer everything to the slow cooker.
Assemble the goulash: Add bell peppers, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, caraway seeds, brown sugar (if using), and the bay leaf to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–6 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors are fully developed.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf and garnish with caraway seeds. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash

Double the batch: This goulash freezes beautifully—make extra for easy meals later.
Skip the skillet?: Yes, you can skip browning the beef, but it adds depth to the flavor. I recommend it if you have time!
Thicker sauce: For a thicker consistency, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking or add a cornstarch slurry.
Make it a meal: Serve over egg noodles, rice, or with crusty bread on the side.

Easy Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Variations

Add veggies: Carrots and potatoes fit seamlessly into this recipe for a complete one-pot meal.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra hot paprika for more heat.
Low-carb option: Skip the flour and serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash FAQs

Can I make this goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! This homemade Hungarian goulash actually tastes better after a day in the fridge—the flavors deepen beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat gently.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, beef stew meat works as a great substitute. Just make sure to cut it into evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.

How can I make this healthier?

For a healthy slow cooker goulash, use lean beef cuts and reduce the amount of flour or skip it entirely.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! This goulash freezes well for up to 3 months. Just portion into airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the beef for mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meat-free twist.

If you give this Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash recipe a try, I’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite kitchen shortcut for busy nights? Leave a comment below—I’m always on the lookout for new hacks!