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As the chill of winter wraps around me, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of authentic German Goulash Soup. I first discovered this hearty, one-pot wonder on a particularly frosty evening when I craved something that would warm both my body and soul. With tender chunks of beef, vibrant potatoes, and sweet carrots melding together in a symphony of flavor, every spoonful invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

What sets this goulash apart isn’t just its rich taste but the tantalizing aroma of marjoram and Hungarian paprika that fills the kitchen—an olfactory hug that makes everyone in the house feel instantly at home. Not only is it mildly spicy and deeply satisfying, but it’s also a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s whip up a pot of comfort that’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home!

Why is German Goulash Soup a must-try?

Comforting, this hearty soup is the perfect remedy for chilly evenings. One-pot simplicity means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with loved ones. Rich flavors from marjoram and paprika create an aromatic experience that makes the kitchen feel warm and inviting. Versatile options allow you to easily customize it with chicken or sweet potatoes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe guarantees crowd-pleasing delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!

German Goulash Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Beef Stew Meat – Provides rich flavor and protein; chuck roast is ideal for tenderness.
Kosher Salt & Cracked Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance flavors; adjust to your taste.
Olive Oil – Used for searing beef and sautéing vegetables, ensuring deep and delicious flavor.
Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; make sure to finely chop it.
Carrots – Contributes sweetness and texture; slice them into 1/4-inch thick coins.
Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor; chop it finely for the best results.
Tomato Paste – Deepens the soup’s richness; can be substituted with fresh tomatoes if needed.
Red Wine – Adds acidity and enhances the flavor; feel free to replace it with additional broth.
Beef Broth – The soup’s flavorful base; opt for low-sodium to better manage saltiness.
Yukon Gold Potatoes – Adds body and heartiness; peel and cut into halves or quarters.
Bay Leaves – Infuse aroma and flavor; remember to remove them after cooking.

For Seasoning and Spice

Hungarian Paprika – The signature spice for authentic flavor; use regular smoked paprika as a substitute if you need.
Caraway Seeds – Adds distinctive flavor; grinding them can give a more subtle taste.
Dried Marjoram & Thyme – Offer pleasant herbal notes; using dried herbs is perfectly acceptable.
Hot Hungarian Paprika or Cayenne Pepper – Adds a mild touch of spice; adjust to your heat preference.
Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; you can omit this if desired.

For Serving

Fresh Italian Parsley – Chopped for garnish, it adds a refreshing touch and vibrant color.
Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche – Adds creaminess and a tangy finish when serving.

Dive into this comforting bowl of German Goulash Soup, and experience a warm hug in every spoonful!

How to Make German Goulash Soup

Prepare Beef: Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels and season generously with kosher salt and cracked black pepper to enhance the flavor.
Sear Beef: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add finely chopped yellow onion, sliced carrots, and garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize slightly for about 2 minutes, which adds depth to your soup.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful browned bits. Bring it to a simmer for a minute.
Combine for Soup: Add in the beef broth, halved or quartered Yukon Gold potatoes, bay leaves, and your spices (Hungarian paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, thyme, and hot paprika). Return the seared beef to the pot.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is fork-tender.
Final Seasoning: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and taste, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve: Ladle the warm soup into bowls, add a dollop of crème fraîche, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crusty rye bread for an extra treat!

Optional: For extra warmth, add a pinch of hot paprika to each bowl before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

This Authentic German Goulash Soup is perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can chop the vegetables and season the beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the soup can be fully cooked and stored for up to 3 days—just refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. To enrich the flavors, consider letting it sit overnight after cooking; it’ll taste just as delicious, if not better! Serve warm with a dollop of crème fraîche and enjoy the hearty goodness!

What to Serve with German Goulash Soup?

A steaming bowl of goulash soup deserves delightful companions that elevate the meal and enhance every bite.

Crusty Rye Bread: Perfect for dipping, its earthy flavors complement the rich, savory soup beautifully.
Homemade Focaccia: Soft and fluffy, this bread adds a lovely texture contrast and absorbs the flavorful broth wonderfully.
Simple Green Salad: A light mix of greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette refreshes your palate between rich spoonfuls.
Garlic Butter Noodles: These noodles provide a satisfying, buttery side that pairs well with the hearty soup, offering a delightful twist.
Pickled Vegetables: The bright tang of pickled veggies creates a balanced bite and cuts through the richness of the soup.
Beer or Red Wine: A robust, malty beer or a glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the flavors, making each sip a cozy experience.
Apple Strudel: For dessert, this traditional treat adds a sweet, spiced finish that lingers on your taste buds long after the meal.

Expert Tips for German Goulash Soup

Perfect Searing: Ensure your beef is well-seared to lock in its flavors; a good crust boosts the soup’s richness.
Tomato Paste Care: Allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly; this step adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of your German Goulash Soup.
Thicker Consistency: For a heartier soup, simply mash a few of the potatoes in the pot before serving, blending them into the broth.
Spice Adjustments: Adjust the level of hot paprika to fit your taste; a little goes a long way depending on your heat preference.
Patience Pays Off: Allow the goulash to simmer low and slow; this tenderizes the beef and melds the flavors beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze German Goulash Soup

Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Always let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezer: Allow the soup to cool first, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your German Goulash Soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Make-Ahead Tip: This dish actually tastes even better after a day or two, as the flavors continue to develop. So don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time!

German Goulash Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with your goulash soup, adding your own flair and twists to make it uniquely yours!

Chicken Substitution: Swap beef for chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter, yet still comforting version. They’ll become tender in the same rich broth!
Sweet Potato Twist: Replace Yukon gold potatoes with sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness adds an exciting layer to the soup’s flavor.
Veggie Delight: Add bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) for a pop of color and a crunch. They bring additional nutrition and flavor to the dish!
Mushroom Boost: Incorporate sliced mushrooms for a hearty, earthy element. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for savory goodness.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add in diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper. This twist elevates the soup, giving it a spicy punch!
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a silky-smooth texture. It transforms the broth into a luxuriously creamy delight!
Herb Adjustments: Swap out marjoram for fresh thyme or rosemary. Each herb lends its own aromatic profile that refreshes the goulash’s flavor.
Lentil Variations: For a plant-based option, add cooked lentils instead of meat. They provide both protein and a texture that complements the soup beautifully.

Let your taste buds lead the way, and enjoy the process of making this delightful dish truly your own!

German Goulash Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef is best for German Goulash Soup?
I recommend using chuck roast, as it’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for slow cooking. Make sure to cut it into uniform pieces for even cooking, and don’t skip the step of patting it dry before seasoning!

How should I store my German Goulash Soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. In the refrigerator, it can last for up to 5 days. For added longevity, I suggest freezing it!

Can I freeze German Goulash Soup?
Absolutely! After cooling, store it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It’s best used within 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or microwave until hot.

What if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your goulash soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add more beef broth or water a little at a time—stirring as you go until you reach your preferred consistency. This soup is very forgiving!

Can my pets enjoy German Goulash Soup?
It’s best to keep goulash away from pets. Ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices can be harmful to them. It’s always a good idea to stick to pet-friendly fare for their meals!

What are some variations I can try?
There are many fun options! For a lighter version, you can swap beef for chicken or a meat alternative. Sweet potatoes can replace Yukon Gold potatoes for a different flavor twist. Additionally, colorful bell peppers can be added for a vibrant touch!