Creamy German Goulash: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Creamy German Goulash is a rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying dish that brings together tender beef, aromatic spices, and a velvety sauce finished with sour cream. Rooted in traditional Central European cooking, this comforting stew is known for its bold paprika flavor, slow-simmered depth, and warming character. It is the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings people together around the table.

Unlike lighter stews, German goulash is defined by its generous use of sweet and smoked paprika, which gives the sauce its signature color and complexity. The addition of bell peppers, potatoes, onions, and beef creates a balanced one-pot meal that can be served on its own or paired with noodles or Spätzle for an even more traditional experience.

In this complete guide, you’ll find everything you need to prepare authentic Creamy German Goulash at home. We’ll cover ingredient explanations, step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for perfect texture, variations, storage advice, and a detailed FAQ section to help you master this comforting classic.

Let’s begin.

Ingredients

Below are the exact ingredients required for this recipe:

• 2 lbs Beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 large Onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 tbsp Sweet paprika
• 1 tbsp Smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Caraway seeds
• 1/2 tsp Marjoram
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper (optional)
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Tomato paste
• 1 cup Beef broth
• 1 cup Dry red wine (optional, but recommended)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can Diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 Red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped
• 1 Yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped
• 1 lb Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup Sour cream
• 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Noodles or Spätzle, for serving (optional)

Understanding the Ingredients

Beef Chuck
Beef chuck is ideal for goulash because it becomes tender during slow simmering. Its marbling adds richness and flavor.

Onions
Onions form the foundation of the dish. When cooked down, they naturally thicken the sauce and add sweetness.

Olive Oil
Used for sautéing the beef and onions.

Sweet Paprika
Provides the classic goulash flavor and deep red color.

Smoked Paprika
Adds subtle smokiness and complexity.

Caraway Seeds
A traditional spice in Central European cuisine, offering earthy, slightly nutty notes.

Marjoram
Brings herbal warmth that balances the paprika.

Cayenne Pepper (Optional)
Adds gentle heat if desired.

Garlic
Enhances aroma and depth.

Tomato Paste
Adds richness and helps build the base of the sauce.

Beef Broth
Provides savory depth and moisture for simmering.

Dry Red Wine (Optional)
Adds acidity and enhances flavor complexity. It helps tenderize the beef and deepen the sauce.

Diced Tomatoes
Contribute texture, acidity, and body to the stew.

Bell Peppers
Red and yellow bell peppers add sweetness, color, and freshness.

Potatoes
Make the dish more filling and absorb the flavorful sauce.

Sour Cream
Creates the creamy finish that distinguishes this version of goulash.

Flour
Helps thicken the sauce.

Parsley
Adds freshness as garnish.

Noodles or Spätzle (Optional)
Traditional accompaniments that make the meal even heartier.

Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups

A Dutch oven is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and retains moisture during long simmering.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions
In the same pot, add chopped onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly golden. Stir frequently to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.

Step 5: Add Spices
Add sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and cayenne (if using). Stir quickly to prevent paprika from burning.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in red wine (if using). Scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Add Liquids
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine.

Step 8: Add Vegetables
Add chopped red and yellow bell peppers and cubed potatoes.

Step 9: Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender and potatoes are cooked through. Stir occasionally.

Step 10: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix flour with a few tablespoons of cold water to form a smooth slurry. Stir it into the stew and cook for another 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 11: Add Sour Cream
Reduce heat to low. Stir in sour cream gradually until fully incorporated. Do not boil after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.

Step 12: Final Seasoning
Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 13: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with noodles or Spätzle if desired.

Tips for Perfect Creamy German Goulash

Brown the Beef Properly
This step builds deep flavor.

Do Not Rush the Simmering
Slow cooking ensures tender meat.

Add Sour Cream at the End
To maintain creamy texture.

Adjust Thickness
If too thick, add a splash of broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered.

Use Quality Paprika
Fresh, high-quality paprika makes a noticeable difference.

Variations

Add Mushrooms
Enhances earthiness.

Make It Spicier
Increase cayenne pepper.

Skip Wine
Replace with additional beef broth.

Use Different Cuts
Beef brisket can also work well.

Make It Extra Creamy
Add a bit more sour cream to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy German Goulash with:

• Egg noodles
• Traditional Spätzle
• Mashed potatoes
• Crusty bread
• Simple green salad

It is perfect for family dinners, cold weather meals, and special gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration
Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Freezing
Freeze without sour cream if possible. Add sour cream after reheating for best texture.

Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat. Avoid boiling once sour cream is added.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Burning the Paprika
Add it briefly and avoid high heat.

Boiling After Adding Sour Cream
This may cause separation.

Skipping Browning
Browning enhances flavor.

Undercooking the Beef
Allow enough simmering time for tenderness.

Conclusion

Creamy German Goulash is a timeless comfort dish that combines tender beef, aromatic spices, vegetables, and a rich sour cream finish. Its deep paprika flavor and slow-simmered texture make it both satisfying and memorable. Whether served over noodles, Spätzle, or enjoyed on its own, this recipe delivers warmth and tradition in every bite.

With careful browning, patient simmering, and proper seasoning, you can create an authentic goulash that rivals classic European kitchens. It is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Print

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without wine?
Yes, substitute with extra beef broth.

What cut of beef is best?
Beef chuck is recommended for tenderness.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, flavors improve after resting overnight.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, but add sour cream after reheating for best texture.

Is it spicy?
Not by default. Cayenne adds optional heat.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, but add it carefully and avoid boiling.

How do I thicken the sauce?
Use the flour slurry or simmer uncovered.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, mushrooms or carrots work well.

What is the best side dish?
Spätzle or egg noodles are traditional choices.

How long should it simmer?
At least 1.5 hours for tender beef.