Creamy German Goulash

If Creamy German Goulash sounds like the kind of dinner that gives you a warm hug and tells you everything’s going to be okay… you’re in the right kitchen. This is that deeply cozy, slow-simmered kind of meal that makes your whole house smell like you’ve got your life together (even if you absolutely ate cereal for lunch—no judgment, friend).

It’s rich, a little smoky, gently tangy from sour cream, and packed with tender beef and potatoes. And the best part? Once the pot is bubbling away, it mostly takes care of itself—so you can do laundry, answer emails, or just stand near the stove pretending you’re on a cooking show.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy German Goulash

• It’s real comfort food. The paprika-spiced sauce is bold but not “burn-your-face-off” spicy.
• Great for busy days. Most of the cooking time is hands-off simmering.
• Leftovers are even better. Like, magically better.
• Family-friendly. Even picky eaters tend to respect “tender beef + creamy sauce + noodles.”

And if you’re like me and you want dinner to feel special without requiring a culinary degree—this is your pot of gold.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into your Creamy German Goulash (and yes, it looks like a lot, but most of it is spices doing the heavy lifting) :

• 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, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt + freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Noodles or Spätzle (optional, for serving)

How to Make Creamy German Goulash

1) Brown the beef (this is the flavor jackpot)

1. Pat the beef dry with paper towels. This matters more than people think—wet beef steams, dry beef browns. We want that golden crust.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Brown the beef in batches (don’t crowd the pot). Sear about 3–4 minutes per side until deeply browned.
5. Remove and set aside in a bowl. Repeat until all beef is browned.

Little reminder from Aneta: if you see browned bits sticking to the bottom, that’s not “burnt.” That’s future deliciousness.

2) Build the flavor base (aka: the magic layer)

1. Add the onions to the same pot and cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring now and then, until soft and translucent.
2. Add garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and cayenne (if using). Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 more minute, stirring constantly.

3) Simmer until the beef turns tender and dreamy

1. Deglaze the pot: Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using). Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom.
2. Add the browned beef back into the pot.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices) plus the red and yellow bell peppers.
4. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 2–3 hours until the beef is very tender.
5. Check occasionally and add a splash more broth if needed to keep things saucy.

4) Add the potatoes

After at least 2 hours of simmering:

1. Add cubed potatoes.
2. Cover and simmer another 30–45 minutes, until potatoes are tender.

5) Make it creamy without curdling (the “don’t panic” step)

1. In a small bowl, whisk sour cream + flour until smooth.
2. Temper it: whisk a spoonful of hot goulash liquid into the sour cream mixture (this helps it blend smoothly).
3. Slowly stir the sour cream mixture into the pot.
4. Simmer 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Important: don’t boil after adding sour cream, or it can separate. Keep it at a gentle simmer and you’ll be golden.

Serving Ideas That Make It Feel Extra Cozy

• Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley.
• Best classic pairing: noodles or Spätzle (they soak up that sauce like champs).
• No noodles? Scoop it into bowls with crusty bread on the side. Everyone becomes happier instantly.

Cooking Tips (Because We All Need Them)

• Dry beef = better browning. I know it’s annoying. Do it anyway.
• Don’t rush the onions. They’re not just there for company—they build the base flavor.
• Wine is optional, but… it adds depth. If you skip it, add a little extra broth.
• If your sauce looks a little odd when you add sour cream, don’t worry—stir gently and let it warm through. It’ll come together. (Like most of us after coffee.)

A Little Story From My Kitchen

This Creamy German Goulash became one of my go-to “company meals” after I made it on a chilly evening when I was tired and honestly not in the mood to cook. I remember thinking, If this turns out okay, I’ll call it a win.

But the smell of paprika and onions simmering away? It pulled everyone into the kitchen like a magnet. By the time I stirred in the sour cream, I had that moment every home cook loves—the one where you taste it and go, “Oh. Oh wow. I did that.”

And yes, there were zero leftovers. Not even one noodle.

FAQs About Creamy German Goulash

Bring On the Cozy

If your week has been chaotic, your calendar is rude, or you just want a dinner that feels like a soft blanket—Creamy German Goulash is the answer. It’s hearty, creamy, and the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table slow down for a minute (even the ones who “aren’t hungry” five minutes before dinner).

Make it once, and I have a feeling Creamy German Goulash is going to earn a permanent spot in your comfort-food rotation. Happy cooking—let’s keep the chicken magic energy… even when we’re cooking beef.

Keep the Cozy Going (You’ll Love These Too)

If this Creamy German Goulash hit the spot and you’re still in the mood for that warm, “everyone’s happy at the table” kind of dinner, don’t stop here—these cozy favorites are perfect for your next comfort-food night.

• Skillet Beef Stroganoff Tortellini — Creamy, hearty, and weeknight-friendly (aka: comfort food without the drama).
• Garlic Beef Pasta — Rich, garlicky, and so satisfying you’ll want seconds before you’ve finished firsts.
• Autumn Harvest Beef Stew — A big, cozy bowl of “stay in your pajamas” energy—perfect on chilly nights.
• Crispy Smashed Carrots — The crunchy, golden side dish that makes any cozy dinner feel extra special.

If you try this recipe (or any of these), I’d love to hear what you think—scroll down and leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review. Your stars and comments help other home cooks find their next favorite dinner!

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