Beef Goulash with Spaetzle

Name: Beef Goulash with Spaetzle
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 onions, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 teaspoon caraway seeds; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 2 bay leaves; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

A hearty and flavorful beef goulash served with homemade spaetzle, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2025-12-03T20:14:28.357Z

This Beef Goulash with Spaetzle is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. The rich, savory flavors of the tender beef and aromatic spices meld together to create a delightful experience for your taste buds.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that warm you up
Tender beef simmered to perfection
Homemade spaetzle adds a delightful texture
Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners

      

The Comfort of Goulash

Beef goulash is a dish that has stood the test of time, known for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. Originating from Hungary, this stew is a staple in many homes, especially during colder months. The combination of tender beef and aromatic spices creates a dish that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. Each spoonful is a delightful experience that evokes memories of family gatherings and hearty meals shared with loved ones.

One of the standout features of goulash is its versatility. While the traditional recipe includes a variety of spices and vegetables, it can easily be adapted to suit your taste. Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even potatoes for added texture and flavor. This flexibility makes goulash an ideal dish for experimenting in the kitchen, ensuring that every time you make it, it can be a unique culinary adventure.

Homemade Spaetzle: A Perfect Pairing

No goulash is complete without a side of spaetzle, those delightful little dumplings that are a staple in German cuisine. Made from simple ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk, spaetzle is incredibly easy to prepare and can elevate your goulash experience to a whole new level. The soft, chewy texture of the spaetzle absorbs the rich broth of the goulash, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that is truly satisfying.

Making spaetzle from scratch is a fun and rewarding process. It’s a wonderful way to involve family members in the cooking process, as everyone can take turns mixing and shaping the dough. Plus, spaetzle can be enjoyed in various ways; you can pan-fry them for a crispy finish or toss them with butter and herbs for a simple side dish. This versatility makes them a great addition to not just goulash, but any hearty meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Beef goulash with spaetzle is not only a delicious meal but also an excellent choice for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, preparing a cozy meal for two, or inviting friends over for a casual get-together, this dish fits the bill. Its robust flavors and satisfying nature make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Additionally, goulash can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, as you can prepare a large batch and simply reheat it when needed. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will impress even the most discerning guests.

Ingredients

For the Goulash

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves

For the Spaetzle

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter

Make sure to gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Goulash

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

Add onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onions are translucent. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Goulash

Add the beef back into the pot along with diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.

Make the Spaetzle

In a bowl, mix flour and salt. In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk together. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a thick batter forms.

Use a spaetzle maker or a colander to drop the batter into boiling water. Cook until they float, then drain.

Serve

Remove bay leaves from the goulash. Serve hot, ladled over the spaetzle, and enjoy!

For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

When it comes to storing leftover beef goulash, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, consider portioning it out into smaller containers for easy reheating. Always label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

To reheat, simply thaw any frozen goulash in the refrigerator overnight. Warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it appears too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This way, you can enjoy the hearty flavors of goulash even days or weeks later.

Variations and Customizations

While this recipe provides a classic take on beef goulash, there are numerous ways to customize it to suit your palate. For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute some of the paprika with sweet paprika. Experimenting with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, can also add a unique twist to the dish.

For those looking to incorporate more vegetables, adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the goulash. You can also swap out the beef for chicken or even a plant-based protein to create a lighter version of the dish. The possibilities are endless, making goulash a truly adaptable recipe.

Serving Suggestions

To create a complete dining experience with your beef goulash and spaetzle, consider pairing the meal with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the goulash. Additionally, serving crusty bread on the side allows guests to soak up the delicious broth, making every bite enjoyable.

For a beverage pairing, consider serving a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which complements the hearty flavors of the goulash beautifully. Alternatively, a light beer can also provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience. With these suggestions, your beef goulash meal will be a memorable and satisfying occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use beef brisket or round, but chuck is preferred for its tenderness.

→ Is spaetzle difficult to make?

Not at all! It's quite simple and just requires a bit of practice to get the right consistency.

→ Can I prepare the goulash in advance?

Absolutely! Goulash tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

→ What can I serve with goulash aside from spaetzle?

You can also serve it with crusty bread or over egg noodles.