Smoked Paprika Goulash Recipe: A Hearty Stew Full of Flavor

If you’re searching for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, this Smoked Paprika Goulash recipe is a perfect choice. Inspired by traditional Hungarian goulash, this version uses smoked paprika to give the dish a rich, aromatic twist that enhances its depth and warmth.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or a family meal, this beef goulash is sure to become a favorite.

📝 What Is Goulash?

Goulash is a traditional stew from Central Europe, especially Hungary, made with tender beef, onions, paprika, and sometimes potatoes or vegetables. It’s known for its bold flavors and comforting texture. Adding smoked paprika to the mix gives it a subtle smokiness that sets it apart from other stew recipes.

🧾 Ingredients

To make a delicious smoked paprika beef goulash, you’ll need:

800g beef chuck, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 onions, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons smoked paprika (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional but authentic)
1 teaspoon marjoram or thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
500ml beef broth
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
Fresh parsley and sour cream for garnish (optional)

🍳 How to Make Smoked Paprika Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

In the same pot, sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, stir for 1 minute.

Step 3: Add Paprika and Spices

Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Simmer

Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 90 minutes, or until beef is tender.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Add carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper. Simmer for another 30 minutes, until vegetables are cooked and the stew thickens.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and a spoon of sour cream if desired. Serve with crusty bread, egg noodles, or rice.

💡 Cooking Tips

Use high-quality smoked paprika (Spanish or Hungarian) for the best flavor.
Goulash gets better with time—consider making it a day ahead.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of hot paprika or chili flakes.
Want a thicker stew? Simmer uncovered at the end to reduce liquid.

🍽️ What to Serve with Goulash

Smoked Paprika Goulash pairs beautifully with:

Crusty bread
Mashed potatoes
Egg noodles (spaetzle)
Steamed rice

It’s also excellent on its own as a full meal.

✅ Why This Recipe Works

Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Bold, smoky flavor from the paprika
Customizable with your favorite vegetables
Perfect for batch cooking or meal prep

🔍 Related Search Terms

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Easy beef goulash stew
Traditional Hungarian goulash with paprika
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🧑‍🍳 Final Thoughts

This Smoked Paprika Goulash recipe is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, rich in flavor, and incredibly satisfying. It’s an ideal dinner for cold nights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With its traditional roots and smoky twist, this goulash brings a taste of Central Europe right to your kitchen.

Try it once, and it might just become your go-to stew recipe.

Free & Easy Smoked Paprika Goulash Recipes