Goulash Recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot

I’ve refined this goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot over countless evenings until it consistently delivers the most deeply aromatic, tender beef and vibrant, rich sauce. This hearty Goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot is your flavorful, hearty solution for busy families and health-conscious cooks. It’s perfect for when you need a satisfying meal without the typical slow-cook fuss.

Ingredient List with Roles & Benefits

Main Players for Our Paprika-Red Pepper Pot

• Beef: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) boneless chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes (for tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture).
• Onions: 2 large (about 2 cups/280g) yellow onions, chopped (essential for building a sweet, aromatic base).
• Garlic: 6 cloves (about 2 Tbsp/30g) garlic, minced (adds pungent depth to the stew).
• Bell Peppers: 3 large (about 3 cups/450g) bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), chopped (for vibrant color, natural sweetness, and a boost of vitamin C).
• Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz/794g) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (14.5 oz/411g) can diced tomatoes (provide tangy acidity and body for the rich sauce).
• Paprika: 3 Tbsp (45g) sweet Hungarian paprika (or smoked paprika for depth), divided (the star spice, giving this goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot its signature color and deep, earthy flavor).
• Beef Broth: 4 cups (960ml) low-sodium beef broth (the liquid gold creating a savory, rich sauce).
• Flour: 2 Tbsp (16g) all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend) (used for browning the meat and subtly thickening the sauce).
• Oil, Salt, Pepper: 2 Tbsp (30ml) neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed); salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Smart Swaps & Healthier Options

• Protein Power: Substitute beef with chicken thighs, lamb shoulder, or even hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian Goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot.
• Vibrant Veggies: Enhance nutrition by adding carrots, celery, or potatoes to the simmer.
• Thickener Choices: Use a gluten-free flour blend or a cornstarch slurry for a gluten-free meal.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess: Skip traditional sour cream or opt for a plant-based alternative (like a cashew-based cream) when serving.

Flavor Boosters & Culinary Notes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprig of marjoram or thyme adds an authentic, aromatic touch.
• Bay Leaves: Introduce subtle depth; remember to remove before serving.
• Acid Brightener: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end can brighten all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Method for Your Hearty Goulash

Prep & Sear Your Beef

1. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels; season generously with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper. This ensures a good sear and seasoned beef. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
2. Heat 1-2 Tbsp oil in a large Dutch oven (my 6-quart Dutch oven works perfectly for this family-friendly meal) or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. (Heat time: 2 minutes)
3. Sear the beef in batches, avoiding overcrowding, until deeply browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. You want a dark crust for maximum flavor. Remove browned beef and set aside. If the pan looks dry or scorched, deglaze with a splash of broth before adding the next batch. (Cook time: 15-20 minutes total)

Build the Flavor Base

4. Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 Tbsp more oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onions until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. (Cook time: 5-7 minutes)
5. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped bell peppers; cook for another 3-5 minutes until the peppers are slightly tender and fragrant. (Cook time: 3-5 minutes)
6. Sprinkle in the remaining paprika and the flour; stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the spices and cook off any raw flour taste. The mixture will become aromatic and reddish-brown. (Cook time: 1 minute)

Simmer to Perfection

7. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the browned beef to the pot, add bay leaves and fresh herbs. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watch for small bubbles along the edges. (Simmer time: 5-10 minutes)
8. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook.
   • Stovetop: Simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce is rich. Check occasionally to ensure a gentle simmer.
   • Slow Cooker: Cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours until the beef yields easily to a fork. This ensures a deeply flavorful, easy dinner idea for your goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot. (Cook time: 1.5-8 hours)

Finish & Serve

9. Remove bay leaves and any herb stems. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The goulash should taste balanced and savory. (Adjust time: 2 minutes)
10. If desired, for a thicker sauce, make a slurry of 1 Tbsp flour (or cornstarch) mixed with 2 Tbsp cold water. Stir into the simmering goulash and cook for another few minutes until it thickens slightly, coating the back of a spoon. (Thicken time: 2-3 minutes)
11. Serve your delicious goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot hot with your favorite sides. It’s an ideal high-protein, family-friendly meal, making this goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot a smart choice. (Serve time: Immediate)

Best Occasions & Creative Uses

When to Enjoy This Comforting Dish

• Hearty weeknight dinners: This makes a satisfying meal after a busy day.
• Cozy Sunday family meals: Ideal for relaxed, flavorful gatherings.
• Potlucks and casual gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that feeds many.
• Packed lunches: Excellent for meal prepping and reheating at work or school.

Beyond the Bowl: Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

• Goulash over egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes: A classic pairing for the Paprika-Red Pepper Pot.
• Stuffed peppers with goulash filling: A fun, re-imagined dinner idea.
• Goulash shepherd’s pie: Top with mashed potatoes for a comforting bake.
• Goulash sliders: Serve on mini buns for a party appetizer or fun lunch.

Smart Storage & Reheating Tips

Cooled goulash stores well, making this goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot great for meal prep.

• Fridge: Store in airtight containers for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Wellness & Everyday Benefits of Goulash Recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot

This goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot is a nutritional powerhouse, high in protein from the beef and packed with vitamins from the bell peppers and tomatoes. It’s an excellent choice for healthy weeknight dinners, offering sustained energy. With simple modifications, it fits perfectly into weight loss meal prep plans or can be adapted for gluten-free options. It’s a genuinely family-friendly dish that balances delicious taste with nourishing ingredients.

Cost, Time & Ease Breakdown

Our goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot simplifies your kitchen routine. Prep takes about 20-25 minutes, with cook time ranging from 1.5-2 hours stovetop or 3-8 hours in a slow cooker. This dish is very budget-friendly, typically costing around $3-5 per generous serving, depending on your beef choice. It doubles beautifully for meal prep recipes, saving time on future dinners.

Ingredient Shopping Guidance

Sourcing the Best for Your Pot

• Supermarket: Most ingredients for this goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot are readily available at your local grocery store.
• Farmer’s Market: Look for fresh, seasonal bell peppers and onions for superior flavor.
• Online Grocery Delivery: Convenient for stocking up on pantry staples like broth and paprika. For the best flavor, I always reach for organic ingredients when possible.

Choosing Your Ingredients

• Beef: Opt for well-marbled chuck roast for the most tender and flavorful results in your goulash.
• Paprika: Invest in high-quality sweet Hungarian or smoked paprika for authentic taste.
• Fresh vs. Frozen: While fresh bell peppers are preferred, frozen diced peppers can be a convenient shortcut in a pinch.

Customization & Adjustments

Elevate Your Goulash Recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot

• Red Wine Splash: Add ½ cup of dry red wine during simmering for extra depth of flavor.
• Creamy Finish: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (dairy-free optional) just before serving.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a bright finish.

Tailoring to Taste

• Spice Level: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot Hungarian paprika with the sweet paprika.
• Sweetness Balance: A tiny bit of sugar or a touch of honey can balance the acidity of the tomatoes if preferred.
• Salt & Pepper: Always adjust at the very end after flavors have melded during simmering.

Allergy & Dietary-Safe Swaps

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or a cornstarch slurry as a thickener for your goulash.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the optional sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with hearty mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based protein for a delicious meatless goulash.

Reader Q&A

Can I freeze goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot after cooking?

Yes, absolutely! This goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot freezes beautifully for up to 3 months in airtight containers. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before gently reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s perfect for meal prep recipes.

What’s the healthiest swap for the beef in this goulash?

For a leaner option, chicken or turkey thighs work well. For a vegetarian version, hearty mushrooms like cremini or portobello, or even chickpeas, make excellent substitutes for the beef, adding a similar texture.

Is goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot good for weight loss diets?

Yes, it can be! It’s high in protein and vegetables, which are great for satiety. Control your portion sizes and choose leaner cuts of beef or explore protein swaps to fit your dietary goals, making it a great low-carb meal option.

How do I make this goulash spicier for my family?

To add more heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot Hungarian paprika instead of sweet paprika. You can also add a finely diced fresh chili pepper during the sautéing of the bell peppers for a bolder flavor.

Can I make this goulash in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables using the Instant Pot’s sauté function. Then, pressure cook the goulash for 30-40 minutes with a natural pressure release. I find it creates wonderfully tender beef in less time.

Where do I buy organic paprika for this goulash recipe?

For high-quality organic paprika, check specialty spice stores, health food markets, or reputable online retailers. Look for Hungarian sweet paprika for authentic flavor in your goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot.

What are good sides to serve with goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot?

Traditionally, goulash is served with egg noodles or spaetzle. Other excellent options include creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a crusty piece of bread for soaking up the delicious sauce from your goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot.

Conclusion

Embrace the comforting flavors and easy preparation of this goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot. It’s a delicious, healthy, and convenient meal that brings everyone to the table, saving you time and money. Pin this amazing goulash recipe Paprika-Red Pepper Pot for your weekly meal plan today!

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