Name: Traditional German Hearty Goulash Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 pound (454 g) stewing beef, cut into ¾-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 large onions, coarsely diced; 1 garlic clove, crushed; 1½ cups tomato juice; 1 cup beef broth; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika; 2 to 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 large bell peppers (mixed colors), cut into 1-inch pieces; Salt and pepper, to taste; Hot Hungarian paprika, optional

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This traditional German goulash soup is rich, warming, and deeply comforting. Made with tender chunks of beef, colorful peppers, potatoes, and a generous touch of sweet paprika, it’s a soup that eats like a meal. Slowly simmered, it develops a full-bodied flavor that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy evenings at home. Traditional German Hearty Goulash Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This goulash soup is hearty without being heavy and simple without sacrificing flavor. It’s made with everyday ingredients, yet the slow simmer creates a deep, savory taste that feels special. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, improves even more the next day, and can be adjusted to suit your family’s preferences. Best of all, it’s a complete, satisfying meal in one pot.

Ingredients

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

1 pound (454 g) stewing beef, cut into ¾-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, coarsely diced
1 garlic clove, crushed
1½ cups tomato juice
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika
2 to 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
3 large bell peppers (mixed colors if possible), cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
Hot Hungarian paprika, optional

Directions

Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add half of the beef cubes and brown them well on all sides, then remove them from the pot. Repeat with the remaining beef.

Return all the browned meat to the pot and add the onions and garlic. Cook for several minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions begin to soften and release their aroma.

Pour in the tomato juice and beef broth, then add the salt and sweet Hungarian paprika. Stir well, bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes.

Add the potatoes and bell peppers to the pot. Continue simmering for another 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors are well blended.

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and hot paprika if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

You can skip the potatoes and serve the soup with crusty bread or bread dumplings on the side. For a richer, creamier finish, stir in ¼ cup cream just before serving. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. For extra texture, add a can of drained beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking. To save time, a frozen mix of sliced peppers and onions works well without sacrificing flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover goulash soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

What cut of beef works best for goulash soup?

Stewing beef, chuck, or flank-style cuts work best because they become tender and flavorful during slow simmering.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is ideal for making ahead. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have fully developed.

Is this soup spicy?

The soup is mild and warming. Heat only comes from optional hot paprika, which can be adjusted or omitted.

Can I freeze goulash soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Do I have to use potatoes?

No, potatoes are optional. You can leave them out and serve the soup with bread instead.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, carrots or celery can be added, but keep the focus on beef, peppers, and paprika for a traditional flavor.

How thick should goulash soup be?

It should be somewhere between a soup and a stew, hearty but still spoonable.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe doubles well and is perfect for feeding a crowd.

What should I serve with goulash soup?

Crusty bread is the classic choice and perfect for soaking up the broth.

Is this soup naturally gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free as written.

Conclusion

Traditional German goulash soup is a timeless, comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and paprika-rich broth, it’s a recipe worth returning to again and again. Whether served for a family meal or prepared ahead for guests, this gulaschsuppe delivers hearty flavor in every spoonful.