hamburger goulash recipe
The Best hamburger goulash recipe
I also love that this recipe works for all kinds of occasions. It’s perfect for game day when you want something filling but not too heavy, or for a family dinner when everyone’s hungry and tired from a long day. And if you’re serving it for a small get-together, it’s easy to double the batch and serve it in bowls with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes. The slow cooking process breaks down the beef and spices into a tender, savory sauce, so it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any veggies you’ve got on hand—carrots, onions, peppers—so there’s no waste, just deliciousness.
Classic Hungarian Hamburger Goulash
A hearty, slow-cooked stew that transforms simple ground beef into a rich, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight meals. The tangy tomato sauce and aromatic spices make every bite satisfying.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 lb hamburger buns, toasted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if needed. -
2
Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and spices. Bring to a simmer. -
3
Add the bay leaf and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the meat is tender. -
4
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot with toasted buns, topped with shredded cheese and fresh parsley.
🔧Equipment
- Large Dutch oven
- Potato masher (optional)
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Hungarian Hamburger Goulash Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hungarian Hamburger Goulash
How do I adjust the spice level in this hamburger goulash?
Yes, you can easily tweak the spice level. For a milder version, reduce the paprika by half or omit it entirely. If you prefer a sharper kick, add an extra tablespoon of cayenne pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika. Always stir in spices while cooking so they distribute evenly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Absolutely. The goulash tastes even better the next day because flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. Avoid boiling to prevent the meat from falling apart.
What’s the best way to serve this hamburger goulash with fresh hamburgers?
A classic pairing is a simple side of crispy fried onions or a dollop of sour cream. For extra richness, top with melted cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt. If you’re serving with fresh hamburgers, let the goulash cool slightly before assembling so the toppings hold their shape. Garnish with fresh parsley for freshness.
Does this recipe work with ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well, but adjust the cooking time slightly—about 5–7 minutes less than beef since turkey cooks faster. Brown the turkey first in the same pan to remove excess moisture, then follow the rest of the recipe as written. The flavor will be slightly milder, but the dish still delivers hearty comfort.
