Slow-Cooker Beef Goulash is the kind of meal that fills a home with comforting aromas long before it reaches the table. The photo shows a thick, glossy stew with tender beef coated in a deep, savory sauce — exactly what good goulash should be. This dish is inspired by traditional Central European cooking, where paprika, slow simmering, and patience transform simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Using a slow cooker makes the process effortless, allowing flavors to develop gently while you go about your day.
To prepare this hearty goulash, you’ll need about two pounds of beef chuck cut into cubes, one large onion diced, three cloves of garlic minced, two tablespoons of vegetable oil, two tablespoons of tomato paste, two teaspoons of sweet paprika, half a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth, a pinch of chili flakes for gentle warmth, salt and black pepper to taste, two cups of beef broth, and one red bell pepper chopped. For a naturally thick and velvety sauce, add one tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a little water near the end of cooking. These ingredients work together to build the signature balance of rich meatiness, mild spice, and comforting thickness.
Begin by heating the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides to lock in flavor, then transfer them to your slow cooker. In the same skillet, sauté the onions until soft and golden, followed by the garlic. Stir in the tomato paste and paprika, letting them cook briefly to release their fragrance. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Add the chopped bell pepper, broth, salt, and pepper, then stir everything gently. Cover and cook on low for six to eight hours, or until the beef is tender enough to break apart with a spoon. During the final thirty minutes, stir in the flour or cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce into a smooth, glossy consistency.
When ready, ladle the Slow-Cooker Beef Goulash into warm bowls and serve with fresh bread, buttered noodles, or steamed rice. Each spoonful delivers tender beef, sweet onions, and a paprika-rich sauce that feels both hearty and comforting. This recipe is ideal for family dinners, cozy weekends, or sharing with guests who appreciate home-cooked meals. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, slow-cooker goulash proves that patience in cooking always rewards you with warmth, nourishment, and a table full of satisfied smiles.
