The aroma of simmering beef and paprika can transport you straight to a cozy German kitchen, where tradition meets comfort. My Creamy German Goulash offers a hearty embrace in a bowl, making it the perfect antidote for chilly evenings. This easy recipe combines tender beef, creamy sauce, and a medley of vegetables, creating not just a meal, but a moment of warmth and nostalgia. One irresistible perk is that it pairs perfectly with spaetzle or noodles, so you can savor every spoonful alongside your favorite carb. Plus, it’s a stellar make-ahead dish that only gets better as the flavors meld together overnight. Are you ready to dive into a comforting culinary experience that will enchant your taste buds?

Why is this goulash so comforting?

Heartwarming Experience: This Creamy German Goulash is a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights when you crave comfort food.

Easy Prep: Even novice cooks will appreciate the straightforward method of combining simple, fresh ingredients.

Flavor Explosion: The union of paprika, beef, and cream creates a rich, savory profile that warms every bite.

Versatility: Whether served with noodles, spaetzle, or classic crusty bread, it adapts to your meal preferences, leaving everyone satisfied.

Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers, this dish will make you the star of any dinner table.

Make-Ahead Magic: It’s the kind of recipe that thrives overnight, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers with even richer flavors the next day.

Creamy German Goulash Ingredients

Unlock the secret to this heartwarming dish with these essentials.

For the Goulash

Beef chuck (2 lbs) – Main protein source providing heartiness; substitute with pork or use beef stew meat for convenience.
Onions (2 large) – Adds sweetness and depth; sweet or yellow onions work best.
Olive oil (2 tbsp) – For browning beef; can be replaced with vegetable or canola oil.
Sweet paprika (2 tbsp) – Primary spice offering flavor; smoked paprika can be used for a deeper taste.
Smoked paprika (1 tbsp) – Enhances the smoky flavor; optional if only using sweet paprika.
Caraway seeds (1 tsp) – Contributes a unique flavor profile, but can be omitted if unavailable.
Marjoram (1/2 tsp) – Adds a herbaceous note; oregano can be substituted.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp, optional) – Provides heat; adjust to taste.
Garlic (4 cloves) – For aroma and flavor; can use garlic powder (1 tsp) in a pinch.
Tomato paste (1 tbsp) – Adds richness and sweetness.
Beef broth (1 cup) – Base for the goulash; use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Dry red wine (1 cup, optional) – Enhances the depth of flavor; can omit if preferred.
Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can, undrained) – Adds acidity and texture.
Red bell pepper (1) – Adds sweetness; yellow or green peppers may be used instead.
Yellow bell pepper (1) – Similar role to the red bell pepper; serves aesthetic and taste.
Potatoes (1 lb, peeled and cubed) – Provides substance and thickens the sauce.
Sour cream (1 cup) – For creaminess; can substitute with crème fraîche.
All-purpose flour (2 tbsp) – Thickens the sauce; can use cornstarch for gluten-free.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper – For seasoning to taste.
Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Adds color and freshness.
Noodles or Spätzle (optional) – Traditional serving suggestions to complement the dish, emphasizing the creamy German goulash experience.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy German Goulash

Step 1: Season the Beef
Begin by generously seasoning 2 pounds of beef chuck cubes with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown beautifully. This initial step creates a delicious foundation for your Creamy German Goulash, enhancing the flavor of the meat as it cooks.

Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a heavy Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a rich brown crust. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In the same pot, add two large chopped onions and cook over medium heat. Sauté them for approximately 5-7 minutes until they turn soft and translucent, releasing their sweet aroma. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing them to pick up the brown bits left from the beef for added depth in your Creamy German Goulash.

Step 4: Enhance with Garlic and Spices
Add 4 minced garlic cloves to the onions, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, ½ teaspoon of marjoram, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper if desired. This fragrant spice blend will infuse your dish with traditional German flavor.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste
Next, add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste to the pot. Stir well, allowing it to cook and caramelize for about 1 minute. This step enhances the richness of your Creamy German Goulash and prepares the sauce to embrace the other ingredients beautifully.

Step 6: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and optional 1 cup of dry red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. This deglazing technique adds even more flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the alcohol to cook off, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Mix in the Vegetables
Return the browned beef to the pot and add a drained can of diced tomatoes, along with chopped red and yellow bell peppers. Stir to combine everything, ensuring the vegetables and beef are well-coated in the flavorful sauce. This step brings both texture and sweetness to your Creamy German Goulash.

Step 8: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a low simmer, cover with a lid, and let it cook on low heat for 2-3 hours. The goal is to achieve tender beef, so check intermittently, stirring gently to avoid sticking. The rich aromas will fill your kitchen, signaling that a comforting meal is on its way.

Step 9: Add the Potatoes
After the initial simmering, add 1 pound of peeled and cubed potatoes to the goulash. Stir them in and continue to simmer, covered, for an additional 30-45 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. The heat will allow them to absorb the flavorful sauce, making your Creamy German Goulash even heartier.

Step 10: Combine Sour Cream and Flour
In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of sour cream with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth. Temper this mixture by adding a spoonful of hot liquid from the pot, then gently stir it back into the goulash. This will ensure a creamy consistency without curdling.

Step 11: Final Seasoning and Thicken
Allow the goulash to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. The Creamy German Goulash should now have a luxurious, rich texture that clings delightfully to your noodles or spaetzle.

Step 12: Serve and Garnish
Once ready, ladle the Creamy German Goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot alongside traditional noodles or spaetzle, allowing everyone to indulge in this comforting culinary experience together.

What to Serve with Creamy German Goulash?

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that complement the richness of this hearty dish and create lasting memories.

Spaetzle: These tender German dumplings perfectly soak up the creamy sauce, enhancing every delicious bite.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping and sopping up the rich goulash, making each meal a comforting experience.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad balances the creaminess of the goulash, adding a refreshing crunch with vibrant flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned to perfection, roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts offer a caramelized sweetness that beautifully contrasts the savory goulash.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a velvety base that pairs wonderfully with the goulash, creating a classic comfort food combination.
Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine enhances the meatiness of the goulash, complementing the paprika flavors and enriching the overall dining experience.
Pickles or Sauerkraut: The tangy bite of pickles or the acidity of sauerkraut adds a delightful contrast and traditional touch, balancing the richness of your meal.

Expert Tips for Creamy German Goulash

Browning Technique: Ensure the beef is browned in batches to prevent steaming. This enhances flavor and creates a rich base for your Creamy German Goulash.
Monitor Thickness: After adding sour cream, avoid boiling to prevent curdling. If it’s too thick, stir in a bit more broth until desired consistency is achieved.
Flavor Depth: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine during the simmering process, enhancing the richness of your goulash.
Ingredient Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients based on availability or dietary needs—this recipe is forgiving and can easily be adapted!
Let It Sit: Allowing the goulash to sit for a while before serving lets the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy German Goulash

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the goulash to cool completely before sealing to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth if the goulash is too thick.
Make-Ahead Tip: This Creamy German Goulash is a fantastic make-ahead dish; the flavors improve overnight, making it perfect for meal prepping or family gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy German Goulash are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions, bell peppers, and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can brown the beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the beef and vegetables together, add the spices, broth, and remaining ingredients, and let it simmer. This way, you’ll achieve that wonderfully rich flavor with minimal effort on busy weeknights, making your goulash just as comforting without the last-minute rush!

Creamy German Goulash Variations

Feel free to take my Creamy German Goulash recipe and make it your own with these delightful tweaks!

Vegetarian: Swap out beef for hearty mushrooms or lentils, creating a soothing, plant-based twist while still embracing the dish’s warm essence.
Spicy Kick: Ignite your taste buds with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added layer of heat that takes traditional goulash to a new level.
Dijon Enhancer: Incorporate a tablespoon of Dijon mustard along with the sour cream for an extra zing and depth of flavor—it’s a delightful surprise!
Different Protein: Feel free to use pork or chicken in place of beef, offering a lighter, yet equally satisfying, version that’s sure to impress.
Creamy without Dairy: Instead of sour cream, try using coconut cream or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly alternative that still delivers on richness.
Extra Veggies: Amp up the nutrition by adding chopped zucchini or carrots. They add sweetness and texture, enhancing this already heartwarming dish.
Herb Boost: Elevate the herbaceousness by adding fresh thyme or rosemary—these fragrant additions can bring new life to your goulash.
Bolder Flavor: For those adventurous palates, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to deepen the flavors in the goulash.

Whether you’re craving comforting home-cooked goodness or exploring something new, experimenting with these variations is sure to bring joy to your dining table. And if you end up with extra ingredients, consider pairing leftovers with some tasty Potatoes Gratin Steals or serving this alongside a fresh salad inspired by Turkish Eggs Yogurt. Enjoy the delicious journey of transforming your goulash!

Creamy German Goulash Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for the goulash?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using beef chuck. It’s marbled and tender, perfect for slow cooking. However, you can also substitute it with pork or even beef stew meat if you’re in a pinch.

How should I store leftover Creamy German Goulash?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the goulash cool completely before sealing it to preserve its rich flavor and creamy texture.

Can I freeze Creamy German Goulash?
Yes, you can! For freezing, portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some space for expansion. It’s best used within 3 months for optimal flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if it’s too thick.

What if my goulash is too thick after adding the sour cream?
Very! If the goulash becomes too thick after you mix in the sour cream, don’t worry. Simply stir in a little beef broth until you reach your desired consistency. Just be sure not to boil after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling.

Can I make this goulash vegetarian?
Certainly! To adapt the Creamy German Goulash for vegetarian diets, I recommend swapping the beef for a combination of hearty vegetables, like mushrooms and zucchini, and using vegetable broth. Additionally, you can replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream for a soothing, creamy texture.