Name: Authentic German Goulash Soup (Gulaschsuppe)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1–2 tablespoons olive oil; 1–1 ½ pounds beef (steak tips, sirloin, stew meat, or chuck roast), cut into ½–1 inch cubes; 1 large onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2–3 stalks celery, diced; 2–3 bell peppers, any color; 3–4 red potatoes, diced into cubes; 2–3 cloves garlic, minced; 2–3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2–3 bay leaves; 1 ½ teaspoons sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon marjoram (or oregano/Italian seasoning); ½–1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, authentic flavor); 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, mild heat); 2 cups dry red wine (or ¼ cup pickle juice or vinegar + beef broth); 2 cups beef broth (add up to 3 more cups for soupier consistency); Kosher salt, to taste (start with 1 teaspoon); Black pepper, to taste (start with ½–1 teaspoon)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the ultimate comfort food it’s savory, slightly smoky, and wonderfully hearty. The paprika and caraway seeds give it that authentic Central European flavor, while the beef and potatoes make it a complete meal in a bowl. It’s a dish that only gets better as the flavors meld, making it great for leftovers and gatherings alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons butter
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1–1 ½ pounds beef (steak tips, sirloin, stew meat, or chuck roast), cut into ½–1 inch cubes
1 large onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2–3 stalks celery, diced
2–3 bell peppers, any color
3–4 red potatoes, diced into cubes
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 tablespoons tomato paste
2–3 bay leaves
1 ½ teaspoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon marjoram (or oregano/Italian seasoning)
½–1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for authentic flavor)
1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, mild heat)
2 cups dry red wine (or ¼ cup pickle juice or vinegar + beef broth)
2 cups beef broth (add up to 3 more cups for a soupier consistency)
Kosher salt, to taste (start with 1 teaspoon)
Black pepper, to taste (start with ½–1 teaspoon)

Directions

Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Cook until softened.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Return the beef to the pot. Add bay leaves, sweet paprika, marjoram, caraway seeds (if using), and hot paprika. Stir to coat.
Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
Add the beef broth and diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1–1 ½ hours, or until beef is tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, and cooking time is 1 ½ hours, for a total of about 1 hour 50 minutes.

Variations

Make it vegetarian by replacing beef with mushrooms and using vegetable broth.
For a creamier soup, stir in a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Add chili flakes for extra spice.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Goulash soup also freezes well for up to 3 months just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What makes German goulash soup different from Hungarian goulash?

German Gulaschsuppe is more brothy and often includes potatoes and vegetables, while Hungarian goulash is thicker and more stew-like.

Do I have to use red wine?

No, you can replace it with beef broth or a splash of vinegar and broth for acidity.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and vegetables first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

What cut of beef works best?

Chuck roast, stew meat, or sirloin are great options because they become tender with slow cooking.

How spicy is the soup?

It’s usually mild, but hot paprika or chili flakes can add a little heat.

Can I thicken the broth?

Yes, simmer uncovered for longer or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water near the end.

What should I serve with goulash soup?

Crusty bread, pretzels, or a light salad pair beautifully.

Can I freeze goulash soup?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

Why add caraway seeds?

Caraway seeds give an earthy, slightly nutty flavor that’s traditional in German cooking.

Does this soup taste better the next day?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen and meld, making it even more delicious after resting overnight.

Conclusion

Authentic German Goulash Soup is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing. With its tender beef, rich broth, and warm spices, this classic dish brings the taste of Germany to your table. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated the next day, it’s a comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again.