Beef paprikash is a hearty and comforting dish that’s rich in flavor and packed with tender beef, all cooked in a luscious, spiced paprika sauce. Originating from Hungary, this dish is similar to the more famous chicken paprikash, but with beef providing a deliciously hearty twist. With its deep, smoky flavor from the paprika and its creamy, velvety sauce, beef paprikash is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender beef cooked with paprika, onions, and sour cream. This Hungarian-inspired recipe is perfect for those looking for a comforting meal with a rich and savory taste.
The beef is simmered slowly in a blend of onions, garlic, and aromatic spices, with paprika being the key ingredient. The dish is deep in flavor, with a smoky, slightly spicy edge from the paprika and a subtle sweetness from the onions. The sour cream adds a velvety texture and balances the flavors beautifully.
Beef paprikash is traditionally served with a side of egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, which soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. The dish is perfect for family meals, special gatherings, or whenever you want something comforting and full of flavor.
With its bold spices and tender beef, beef paprikash is a satisfying, flavorful dish that brings the warmth and comfort of Hungarian cuisine to your table.

Ingredients
- 500 grams beef chuck cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika Hungarian if possible
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add the beef cubes to the pot and sear until browned on all sides.
- Stir in the sweet paprika, making sure the beef and onions are evenly coated.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 1 hour until the beef is tender.
- In a bowl, mix the sour cream and flour together until smooth. Gradually add this to the pot, stirring constantly.
- Continue to cook uncovered for another 20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with a side of noodles, mashed potatoes or rice.
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Is this dish supposed to be spicy? Because I used sweet paprika and it was just not for my taste. Next time I’ll try a different recipe.
Yum! Makes me want to lick the plate clean. My whole family devoured it! Thanks for sharing!
I tried this and my beef was kinda tough. I followed the instructions but maybe it needed more simmering? Not sure, but I ain’t impressed.
Absolutely loved this recipe! The beef turned out so tender and the flavor was just amazing. Definitely going to make it again!
So glad to hear you loved it! It’s one of my favorites too! 😍
This seems like too much work for just some beef. I’ll stick to my own recipes.
Sounds like a lot of work, is it really that good? I mean, it’s just beef after all.
I get it, some people prefer simple meals. But trust me, this one is worth the effort! The flavors are incredible.
Made this last night—so comforting. The paprika smell is unreal. I used regular paprika (couldn’t find Hungarian) and it was still great. Sauce came out thick and creamy.
Delicious! This recipe reminded me of my childhood. Will be making again.
My grandma made this with chicken, not beef. They both taste good tho!
I don’t understand how people can say this is good. It’s just beef and sauce. Where’s the flavor? Disappointed!
I followed the reciepe but it was too salty. Maybe I’ll use less salt next time.
I think your salt amount might vary depending on the broth you used! Some broths are saltier than others. Just needs a little adjustment, I guess! 👍
Yum! I served it with noodles, and my whole family loved it! Thanks for sharing!
Sour cream ain’t for cooking beef. I prefer it without, tasted fake to me.
I dunno, I think it sounds good. But what if you make it without and then try it once? You might like it better than you think!
I disagree! Sour cream adds richness and a creamy texture that balances the spices. I love it in this dish! 😊
This was so delicious! The paprika really makes it pop. Will def make again!
Hmmm, not really what I expected. Paprikash is supposed to be red and mine came out kinda brown.
Not bad but a bit too rich for my taste. Maybe less sour cream next time?
I agree, it can be a little heavy. A dollop of sour cream is usually good enough! Less is more! 🍽️
I think it’s perfect! But we all have different tastes. Maybe try Greek yogurt instead next time.
Yum! This is my new favorite dinner dish, I want it every week 😂👍
Bland! I added even more paprika, but still no flavor. Disappointed.
Maybe try adding garlic or some fresh herbs next time? That usually helps with flavor!
Soo yummy! I added extra paprika and it was even better. Thank you!
Easy to follow instructions. I added some bell peppers and it turned out great.
I love that you added bell peppers! They must add a nice crunch. I’ll have to try that next time!
Sounds good, but I don’t know about sour cream in beef dishes. Isn’t that weird? Maybe I’ll stick with my recipe.
My husband loved it! Will definitely make again. Yum!!!
Amazing recipe! Can I use chicken instead of beef? Asking for a friend.
I think chicken could work, but the flavor will be different. Beef has that hearty taste! Just sayin’.
Nah, beef is a big part of this dish. Chicken will totally change it up! Better stick to beef.
Made this last night and it was seriously comforting. The paprika flavor really comes through—my onions turned sweet and the sauce thickened nicely after the extra 20 minutes.
Bah, just mixed up hte steps.. ended up burnt! Lesson learned, read carefully!
This was amazing! The flavors were rich and it was so comforting. Will definitely make it again!
I totally agree! It’s so hearty and the seasoning is perfect. Glad you loved it!
Meh. Tasted too plain. I thought it was gonna be spicier with all that paprika!
I actually found it really flavorful! Maybe you missed adding more paprika or some chili flakes? Worth trying again!
Just okay. Beef was tough. Used random broth and it did not work out. Never again! 😒
I don’t really like beef so I wasn’t a fan of this. Maybe it’d be better with chicken?
I get it, beef can be hit or miss. Chicken could definitely work, maybe add some extra spices for flavor!
Amazing recipe! I added more paprika cause I like it spicy. Everyone loved it!
Paprikash? I thought it was a dessert! Didn’t realize it was savory. Oops!
This recipe is fantastic! The beef comes out so tender and flavorful. A family favorite now!
Sounds too good to be true. Is it really that easy? I usually mess up beef recipes. Maybe I should give it a shot tho.
I’m glad to hear you loved it! It’s definitely a classic for a reason. Have you tried it with the homemade noodles? They make it even better!