Introduction

Beef Goulash Soup with Paprika is a traditional Hungarian-inspired dish that has become a beloved comfort food around the world. Known in Hungary as Gulyásleves, this soup is a hearty blend of tender beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and of course, the star ingredient—paprika. Unlike a thick stew, goulash soup is lighter yet still wonderfully filling, with a savory broth infused with smoky-sweet paprika, garlic, and herbs.

This dish’s roots stretch back to Hungarian herdsmen, who simmered beef, onions, and spices in large cauldrons over open fires. Over time, goulash evolved into one of Hungary’s national dishes, celebrated for its rustic flavors and wholesome simplicity. Today, goulash soup remains a symbol of hearty home cooking, offering warmth and nourishment in every spoonful.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and flavor. The beef becomes tender after simmering, the vegetables add sweetness and substance, and the paprika brings a depth that’s unmistakably Hungarian. Every bite feels rustic, grounding, and satisfying—like something that could warm you after a long day in the cold.

This is a Must Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it’s more than just soup; it’s an experience. The bright red broth from paprika, the aroma of garlic and bay leaves, and the rich, meaty flavor make it unique and unforgettable. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight family dinner yet elegant enough to serve at gatherings. Plus, it’s a dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 50 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: ~380 kcal
• Course: Main Course, Soup
• Cuisine: Hungarian / Central European

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard (traditional)
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 8 cups beef broth (or water)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional but traditional)
• 2 teaspoons salt (plus more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables:

• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium tomato, chopped (or ½ cup canned)

Garnishes (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Sour cream for topping
• Crusty bread for serving

Cooking Directions

1. Sear the Beef:
   In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef cubes in batches, searing until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic:
   In the same pot, add onions. Cook until golden brown (about 8 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add Paprika and Tomato Paste:
   Stir in paprika and tomato paste, mixing well to coat onions. Quickly add a splash of broth to prevent paprika from burning.
4. Simmer the Base:
   Return beef to pot. Add broth, bay leaves, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer covered for 1 hour.
5. Add Vegetables:
   Add carrots, potatoes, celery, bell pepper, and tomato. Simmer for 30 more minutes until vegetables and beef are tender.
6. Finish and Adjust:
   Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or paprika if needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare ingredients—cube beef, chop vegetables, measure spices.
2. Brown beef cubes in batches for deep flavor.
3. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
4. Stir in paprika and tomato paste (avoid burning).
5. Add broth, beef, and spices; simmer for 1 hour.
6. Add vegetables and continue simmering for 30 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning.
8. Serve hot with bread and garnishes.

How to Serve

• Serve steaming hot in large bowls, topped with chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
• Pair with crusty bread, rye bread, or fresh rolls for dipping into the broth.
• A glass of red wine or dark beer complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Recipe Tips

• Choose the right paprika: Use authentic sweet Hungarian paprika for the best flavor.
• Don’t burn the paprika: Add broth immediately after paprika to prevent bitterness.
• Low and slow: Gentle simmering makes beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Richer flavor: Add a splash of red wine during simmering.

Variations

1. Spicy Goulash: Add hot paprika or fresh chili for heat.
2. German Gulaschsuppe: Thicker, with more potatoes and less broth.
3. Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with mushrooms, beans, or lentils, and use vegetable broth.
4. Noodle Goulash Soup: Add small egg noodles or spaetzle for extra heartiness.
5. Slow Cooker Version: Cook on low for 8 hours, adding vegetables halfway through.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Ladle for serving

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, pork goulash is also traditional in parts of Hungary and works well with the same spices.

Q2: Can I make this without caraway seeds?
Yes, but caraway adds an authentic earthy flavor. It can be omitted if unavailable.

Q3: What’s the difference between goulash soup and beef stew?
Goulash soup has more broth, a stronger paprika flavor, and is usually lighter than stew.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Q5: Can I thicken the soup?
Yes, mash a few potatoes into the broth or add a flour slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Beef Goulash Soup with Paprika is a classic dish that celebrates hearty, rustic flavors with a touch of Central European tradition. It’s warming, filling, and rich with the depth of paprika and slow-simmered beef. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy family dinner or serve it at a gathering, this goulash soup will impress with its comforting yet bold taste. It’s a dish that proves the power of simple ingredients, cooked with care, to create something extraordinary.