Name: Creamy German Goulash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tbsp sweet paprika; 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional, for traditional flavor); 3 cups beef broth; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for browning); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Creamy German Goulash is a rich and hearty beef stew made with tender chunks of meat, deeply caramelized onions, savory spices, and a smooth, velvety sauce. This comforting twist on the traditional German dish adds a touch of cream at the end, giving it a luxurious finish. I love making it when I want something cozy and full of old-world flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this goulash brings together deep flavors and creamy comfort in one pot. The long-simmered beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the creamy paprika sauce is so good, I always want to mop up every drop. It’s perfect for cooler days, and it fills the kitchen with incredible aromas while it cooks. Plus, it pairs beautifully with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or spaetzle. Creamy German Goulash

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Stewing beef (like chuck roast, cut into chunks)
Yellow onions (thinly sliced)
Garlic (minced)
Tomato paste
Paprika (sweet or smoked, or a mix of both)
Caraway seeds (optional, for traditional flavor)
Beef broth
Bay leaf
Sour cream or heavy cream
Olive oil or butter (for browning)
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by heating oil or butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. I sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides, then set it aside.
In the same pot, I sauté the sliced onions until golden and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes. I stir frequently so they don’t burn.
I add the garlic, tomato paste, paprika, and caraway seeds and cook for another 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
I return the beef to the pot, pour in the broth, add the bay leaf, and bring everything to a simmer.
I cover and let it simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
Once the beef is soft and the sauce has reduced, I stir in sour cream or heavy cream to make it smooth and creamy.
I adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, remove the bay leaf, and serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. It takes about 20 minutes to prep and 1.5 to 2 hours to cook, so it’s perfect for a relaxed cooking day or weekend meal.

Variations

I sometimes add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture. For a slightly tangier version, I use more sour cream and a splash of vinegar at the end. If I want it spicy, I stir in a bit of hot paprika or chili flakes.

storage/reheating

Leftovers keep really well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat them gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. This goulash also freezes beautifully—just cool it completely and store it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Creamy German Goulash

FAQs

What makes German goulash different from Hungarian goulash?

German goulash tends to be milder and thicker, often made with less spice and served with creamy or buttery sides like spaetzle or mashed potatoes.

Can I use cream instead of sour cream?

Yes, heavy cream will give it a rich finish without the tang. I like using sour cream for the extra brightness, but both work well.

What’s the best cut of beef for goulash?

Chuck roast is my go-to—it becomes super tender after slow simmering and has just enough fat to keep the stew flavorful.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. I stir in the cream at the end.

What should I serve with it?

I usually go with egg noodles, spaetzle, mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread. It also pairs well with pickled vegetables or red cabbage.

Conclusion

Creamy German Goulash is a cozy, satisfying dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table with every bite. With its tender beef, rich sauce, and creamy finish, it’s one of my favorite meals to make when I want something traditional, hearty, and absolutely delicious. Whether I’m serving it to family or saving it for myself on a quiet night, it always feels like a warm hug in a bowl.