Go Back
Bowl of Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash topped with sour cream and caraway seeds, served on a wooden table

Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash

This Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash is an easy Hungarian goulash recipe that saves you time while delivering a hearty and authentic flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours 20 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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)

Method
 

  1. Prep the beef: In a large mixing bowl, toss the beef pieces with sweet paprika, hot paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and garnish with caraway seeds. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

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.