Step 3: Layer the Vegetables
- Add carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes into the slow cooker on top of the beef.
- Sprinkle the thyme and caraway seeds over the vegetables.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, and tomato paste.
- Stir gently to combine, but don’t overmix—the layers of flavor will develop as it cooks.
Step 5: Cook Slowly
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
- The beef should be tender enough to shred with a fork, and the vegetables soft but intact.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the goulash near the end of cooking.
- Add salt, pepper, or extra paprika if needed to balance the flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the goulash into bowls.
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness.
- Serve with crusty bread, buttered noodles, or over rice for a hearty meal.
Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Goulash
- Brown the beef first: This extra step gives the goulash a richer flavor.
- Use a mix of sweet and smoked paprika: It adds depth without overpowering the dish.
- Don’t over-stir: Slow cookers develop flavors best when ingredients are layered rather than constantly mixed.
- Customize the vegetables: Mushrooms, parsnips, or celery can be added for variation.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of slow cooker goulash lies in the slow melding of flavors. The beef becomes tender, the vegetables soak up the paprika-infused broth, and the tomato base thickens into a rich, savory sauce. It’s a dish that’s both hearty and comforting, perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
Final Thought:
This Slow Cooker Goulash proves that classic comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal hands-on time, you can enjoy a deeply flavorful, satisfying meal that tastes like it simmered for hours—because it did.
If you want, I can also create a foolproof 30-minute prep cheat sheet for this goulash so it’s even easier to make in a busy week. Do you want me to do that?
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