Name: Satisfy Your Cravings with Hungarian Red Potato Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Red Potatoes (Substitute with Yukon Gold if desired.); 12 ounces Beef Smoked Sausage (Pork or chicken sausage can be used.); 1 medium Onion (Shallots can be used for a milder taste.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh cloves or minced garlic both work well.); 2 tablespoons Paprika (Sweet Hungarian paprika is recommended.); 3 cups Chicken Stock (Use vegetable stock for a lighter option.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 loaf Crusty Bread (Perfect for dipping into the savory sauce.); 2 cups Green Beans or Salad (A simple side that balances the meal.)

As the brisk chill of evening settles in, there’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty meal simmering on the stove. This Saucy Hungarian Red Potato Goulash delivers just that—a filling one-pan wonder that warms both the home and the soul. With tender red potatoes mingling with juicy smoked sausage and sweet caramelized onions, each bite is a delightful embrace. It’s not only quick to prepare but easily adaptable, allowing you to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is bound to become a cherished addition to your rotation. Curious about how a touch of paprika transforms this dish into pure comfort? Let’s dive in!

Why is Hungarian Red Potato Goulash so special?

Hearty Comfort: This goulash embodies the essence of comfort food, warming you from the inside out on cold evenings.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the ease of a single skillet means less cleanup—more time to savor your meal!
Flavorful Blend: The rich flavor of smoked sausage mingling with sweet caramelized onions and earthy paprika creates an unforgettable taste.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap proteins or vegetables to suit your taste—chorizo or mushrooms, the options are endless!
Quick and Delicious: With a cooking time of under an hour, it’s a meal that fits perfectly into a busy weeknight.

Satisfy your cravings like never before with this Hungarian Red Potato Goulash and experience lasting joy in every bite!

Hungarian Red Potato Goulash Ingredients

For the Goulash
• Red Potatoes – the foundation of this dish, providing a hearty bite; substitute with Yukon Gold if desired.
• Beef Smoked Sausage – infuses the goulash with a deep, rich flavor; try pork or chicken sausage for a lighter twist.
• Onions – their sweetness enhances the overall depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste instead.
• Garlic – brings a savory punch to the dish; fresh cloves or minced garlic both work well.
• Paprika – the star spice that gives it character; sweet Hungarian paprika is recommended, and adjust for heat if preferred.
• Chicken Stock – adds moisture and richness; vegetable stock makes it a lighter option for vegetarians.
• Salt and Pepper – the essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors; adjust these to suit your palate.

For Serving
• Crusty Bread – perfect for dipping into the savory sauce and soaking up all the deliciousness!
• Green Beans or Salad – a simple side that balances the meal beautifully.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hungarian Red Potato Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add sliced beef smoked sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned, stirring occasionally to develop tasty bits that stick to the pan. This adds essential flavor to your Hungarian Red Potato Goulash.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic
Once the sausage is browned, introduce sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes until the onions turn sweet and translucent. The aroma will be delightful, inviting you to dive into the goulash soon!

Step 3: Incorporate the Potatoes
Stir in the chopped red potatoes, ensuring they’re well-mixed with the sausage and onion mixture. Sprinkle with paprika and toss again to coat the potatoes evenly. This coating is key in imparting that rich flavor throughout your Hungarian Red Potato Goulash.

Step 4: Simmer with Stock
Pour in the chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and allow it to cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Keep an eye on it, checking occasionally, as the bubbling sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Season to Perfection
After the potatoes are soft, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. A final taste check ensures that your Hungarian Red Potato Goulash has the perfect balance of flavors before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once seasoned, serve the goulash warm directly from the skillet. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, and a fresh side of green beans or salad to balance out this hearty one-pan meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade creation!

Hungarian Red Potato Goulash Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—there are so many delicious ways to tailor it to your taste!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the sausage for mushrooms and vegetable stock for a warming veggie-friendly alternative. The earthy flavor of mushrooms enriches every bite while keeping the heartiness intact.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who crave an extra heat boost. This twist elevates the dish and adds an exciting zing with every mouthful.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a rich, velvety sauce. This addition creates a comforting texture and brings a new level of indulgence to your goulash.
Different Sausages: Experiment with chorizo, kielbasa, or turkey sausage for varied flavors and textures. Each protein lends a unique taste, whether it’s the smoky essence of kielbasa or the spiciness of chorizo.
Hearty Veggies: Mix in carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrients and color. These vegetables not only enrich your goulash but also enhance its overall visual appeal, making it even more appetizing.
Savory Herb Boost: Toss in fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme at the end of cooking for an aromatic finish. These herbs elevate the dish with vibrant flavors that brighten the hearty goulash.
Sweet Paprika Variation: Use smoked or hot paprika instead of sweet for an intensified flavor profile. This adaptation dramatically enhances the dish, providing that smoky, subtle sweetness reminiscent of a rustic kitchen.

And if you’re looking to round out your meal, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread or diving into a bowl of comforting green beans alongside your Meatloaf Mashed Potatoes. Enjoy the delicious journey of flavors and heartwarming warmth that this goulash offers!

How to Store and Freeze Hungarian Red Potato Goulash

Fridge: Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping it fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the goulash in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space for it to expand as it freezes.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Hungarian Red Potato Goulash, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken stock if it thickens too much during storage.

Make Ahead: Feel free to prepare the goulash ahead of time. It tastes even better the following day as the flavors develop overnight!

Make Ahead Options

These Saucy Hungarian Red Potato Goulash are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can chop the red potatoes, onions, and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic ahead of time, refrigerating the mixture for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, ensure everything is sealed in airtight containers to prevent moisture loss. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet with the chicken stock, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 30-40 minutes). This will save you time while still delivering delightful, restaurant-quality results!

What to Serve with Saucy Hungarian Red Potato Goulash

Elevate your dining experience by complementing this cozy dish with sides that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

Crusty Bread: The perfect companion to soak up the rich, savory sauce of the goulash, making each bite even more satisfying. You can’t go wrong with freshly baked bread right from the oven!
Green Beans Almondine: Adding a fresh crunch, these green beans sautéed with almonds introduce a delightful contrast to the hearty goulash while keeping the meal light.
Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers brings a bright, crisp component that balances the warmth and richness of Hungarian Red Potato Goulash.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For an indulgent twist, fluffy mashed potatoes topped with a sprinkle of chives offer a luxurious pairing that enhances the overall comfort of your meal.
Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and beets caramelizes beautifully in the oven to provide a sweet counterpart to the savory goulash.
Spicy Pickles: Add a tangy kick! Spicy pickles bring a zesty flavor that cuts through the richness, creating a bold contrast that surprises the palate.
Beer or Light Red Wine: Pair your meal with a cold beer or a glass of light red wine to complement the smoky flavors of the sausage and warm notes of paprika. Each sip enhances the overall dining experience, inviting comfort with each taste.

Expert Tips for Hungarian Red Potato Goulash

Flavor Boost: Add a splash of beer or Worcestershire sauce while sautéing the sausage to deepen the flavor profile of your goulash.
Perfect Sausage Texture: Allow the sausage to caramelize nicely for an added crispy texture; patience pays off with better flavor and bite.
Potato Prep: If using russet potatoes, remember to peel them to maintain a creamy texture in your Hungarian Red Potato Goulash.
Cooking in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the potatoes in the skillet to ensure even cooking; it may be worth cooking them in batches if doubling the recipe.
Adjust Cooking Time: Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of your potato chunks; smaller pieces cook faster and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Hungarian Red Potato Goulash Recipe FAQs

What kind of potatoes are best for Hungarian Red Potato Goulash?
Absolutely! Red potatoes are the ideal choice for this goulash because they hold their shape while providing a creamy texture. However, you can use Yukon Gold or even russet potatoes if needed. Just keep in mind that russets release more starch, so you might need to adjust the liquid content accordingly.

How should I store leftover goulash?
Very easy! Once cooled, transfer your leftover Hungarian Red Potato Goulash into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 days and can be gently reheated on the stove or in the microwave. Just add a splash of chicken stock to restore the creamy consistency if it thickens too much.

Can I freeze Hungarian Red Potato Goulash?
Of course! To freeze, allow the goulash to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. Be sure to leave some space at the top, as the goulash will expand as it freezes. It can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving.

What if my goulash is too thick?
No worries if it turns out a bit thick! If your Hungarian Red Potato Goulash is thicker than you like, simply stir in a bit more chicken stock or water while reheating. This will help you achieve the perfect saucy consistency for a delightful experience!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider substituting the beef smoked sausage with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein like mushrooms. Also, for a gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free stock and pay attention to ingredient labels.

Can I add more vegetables to my goulash?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember that if you’re incorporating more vegetables, you may want to increase the liquid slightly to accommodate them in your Hungarian Red Potato Goulash, ensuring everything cooks evenly.