Hairy Bikers Slow Cooker Goulash with Potatoes Recipe

This tender rich Hairy Bikers Slow Cooker Goulash with Potatoes Recipe is made with chuck steak, smoked paprika, and potatoes, and ready in 8 hours. The meat slowly breaks down into the savory tomato gravy while the potato chunks soak up the smoky spices. I always look forward to coming home to this comforting aroma.

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Why This Classic Works

Traditional goulash relies on patience to transform tough cuts of beef into something completely melt-in-the-mouth. Cooking it low and slow means you get maximum flavour without hovering over a hot stove.

I used to skip browning the meat when rushing the morning prep. I quickly learned that taking ten extra minutes to sear the beef builds a deep base note that makes the sauce incredible.

Hairy Bikers Slow Cooker Goulash with Potatoes Recipe Ingredients

• 800g chuck steak, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 tbsp sweet smoked paprika
• 1 tsp caraway seeds
• 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
• 400ml beef stock
• 2 red peppers, deseeded and sliced
• 500g potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp sour cream, to serve

How To Make Hairy Bikers Slow Cooker Goulash with Potatoes Recipe

1. Brown the beef: Heat the oil in a large frying pan over high heat and fry the beef chunks until browned all over. Transfer the meat to your slow cooker.
2. Soften the aromatics: Lower the heat, add the onions to the pan, and cook for 5 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds for one minute.
3. Combine the base: Pour the tomatoes and beef stock into the pan, scraping up any sticky bits from the bottom. Pour this entire mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
4. Add the vegetables: Stir the sliced red peppers and potato chunks into the slow cooker, seasoning well with salt and black pepper.
5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours, or until the beef is meltingly tender and the potatoes are soft.

Recipe Tips

• Sear in batches: Crowding the pan causes the beef to steam rather than brown, which costs you crucial flavour.
• Use floury potatoes: Varieties like Maris Piper or King Edward break down slightly around the edges, naturally thickening the stew.
• Check your paprika: Smoked paprika loses its punch quickly in the cupboard, so ensure yours is fresh for the best smoky warmth.

What To Serve With Slow Cooker Goulash

A dollop of sour cream on top helps balance the rich, smoky flavours of the paprika. Serve it with crusty bread or warm buttered noodles to mop up every last drop of the savory sauce.

How To Store

Let the goulash cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days and often tastes better the next day. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, though the potatoes may soften further upon reheating.

FAQs

Can I cook this on the high setting?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 4 to 5 hours. However, the beef is generally more tender when cooked on low.

Do I have to brown the meat first?

You can technically skip it safely in a slow cooker, but browning adds a rich depth of flavour you will otherwise miss.

What cut of beef is best?

Chuck steak or braising steak is ideal because the marbled fat and connective tissue melt down slowly for a tender result.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 28g
• Protein: 38g

Try More Recipes:

• Hairy Bikers Beef Stifado Slow Cooker Recipe
• Hairy Bikers Double Chocolate Chilli
• Hairy Bikers Vegetarian Chilli Recipe