Slow Cooker Beef Goulash – Easy Crockpot Hungarian-Style Goulash Recipe
This Slow Cooker Beef Goulash is a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed dish made with tender beef chuck simmered in a rich paprika-infused sauce. This easy crockpot goulash recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or make-ahead meals. With bold Hungarian flavors and melt-in-your-mouth beef, it’s a slow cooker classic you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Goulash
Beef & Vegetables
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Spices & Seasoning
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons sweet paprika (Hungarian paprika recommended)
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids & Optional Add-Ins
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Goulash
1. Brown the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck pieces and sear until browned on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
2. Build the Flavor Base
Using the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and garlic until softened. Stir in the sweet paprika, caraway seeds, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the aromas.
3. Deglaze with Broth
Add the tomato paste and stir well. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the pan to loosen the browned bits—this adds deep flavor to your crockpot goulash.
4. Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Pour the onion and spice mixture into the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes and sliced bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or until the beef is tender and the flavors have fully developed.
6. Optional Thickening
For a thicker sauce, mix the flour with a little water to create a slurry. Stir it into the goulash 30 minutes before serving.
7. Serve & Garnish
Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a classic Hungarian touch.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Goulash
Melt-in-your-mouth tender beef
Authentic Hungarian flavors
Easy slow cooker prep—minimal effort!
Perfect comfort food for cold days
Family-friendly and customizable
