Quick Weeknight Beef Goulash
Introduction (short)
This comforting beef goulash is a rich, savory stew made with tender beef chunks simmered in a flavorful paprika-infused sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s hearty, satisfying, and ready in a fraction of the traditional cooking time.
Ingredients
• 1 ½ lbs (700 g) beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 ½ tablespoons sweet paprika (Hungarian preferred)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or marjoram
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
Add beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomato Paste and Spices
Stir in tomato paste, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme (or marjoram).
Cook for 1–2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Add Liquids and Simmer
Return beef to the pan.
Add beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and cook for 35–45 minutes, until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker goulash, stir in 1 tablespoon of flour mixed with 2 tablespoons of water and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
How to Make (step-by-step summary)
- Brown beef in oil.
- Sauté vegetables and garlic.
- Add tomato paste, paprika, and seasonings.
- Pour in broth and tomato sauce; simmer until tender.
- Thicken if desired, then garnish and serve.
Variations
• Classic Hungarian Style: Add ½ teaspoon caraway seeds and serve with egg noodles or spaetzle.
• With Potatoes: Add diced potatoes during simmering for a one-pot meal.
• Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot paprika.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Pair with crusty bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Tips
• Cut beef into even-sized cubes for consistent cooking.
• Use quality paprika — it’s the key to authentic flavor.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Conclusion (short)
This Quick Weeknight Beef Goulash brings classic comfort to your dinner table — rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect cozy meal made simple.