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; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 red bell peppers, chopped; 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 teaspoon caraway seeds; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Butter for frying

Highlighted under: The Family Table Recipes

Savor the rich flavors of traditional Beef Goulash paired with homemade Spaetzle, creating a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T20:42:27.695Z

This Beef Goulash recipe brings together tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce, served over a bed of soft, chewy spaetzle. It’s a dish that warms the heart and soul, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for cold evenings
Flavorful sauce that enhances the tender beef
Homemade spaetzle adds a unique touch to the dish

      

A Hearty Comfort Food Classic

Beef goulash is a dish that has stood the test of time, captivating palates with its rich flavors and comforting aroma. Originating from Hungary, this stew has made its way into kitchens around the world, each adding their own twist. The combination of tender beef, aromatic spices, and a savory sauce creates a meal that warms the soul, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

One of the highlights of this goulash is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a sauce that is both robust and satisfying. Pairing it with homemade spaetzle elevates the experience, providing a delightful texture that complements the goulash perfectly.

The Art of Making Spaetzle

Spaetzle, a type of soft egg noodle, is a beloved side dish in German cuisine. The process of making spaetzle is not only simple but also quite enjoyable. With just flour, eggs, and milk, you can whip up a batter that transforms into delightful dumplings when cooked. These little morsels soak up the flavorful sauce from the goulash, making each bite a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

Using a spaetzle maker or even a colander, you can effortlessly drop the batter into boiling water, creating unique shapes that add visual appeal to your dish. Once cooked, a quick sauté in butter gives the spaetzle a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, pillowy center. This contrast makes spaetzle an ideal accompaniment to the hearty beef goulash, ensuring that every forkful is a pleasure.

Perfect Pairing Suggestions

Ingredients for Beef Goulash

For the Beef Goulash

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 red bell peppers, chopped
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Spaetzle

2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
Butter for frying

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Goulash

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

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic, cooking until they are soft. Stir in the red bell peppers, paprika, and caraway seeds, cooking for an additional minute.

Return the beef to the pot, add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Make the Spaetzle

In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients until a thick batter forms. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Use a spaetzle maker or a colander to drop the batter into the boiling water. Cook until the spaetzle floats to the surface, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

In a skillet, melt some butter and sauté the spaetzle until golden brown.

Serve

Serve the beef goulash over a generous portion of spaetzle, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover beef goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making it even more enjoyable when reheated. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Spaetzle is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for a day or two. To revive them, sauté the spaetzle in a bit of butter until they are golden and heated through. This method not only warms them up but also adds a delightful crunch.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your beef goulash by adding vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different spices, such as adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Each variation can bring a new twist to this classic dish.

For a lighter version, consider using lean cuts of beef or substituting with turkey or chicken. You can also create a vegetarian version by using a mix of hearty vegetables, beans, and vegetable broth. The goulash retains its comforting essence while catering to various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

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

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the goulash?

Yes, the goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.