Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced beef to the pot and brown it on all sides, working in batches if necessary. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onions and sauté them until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add the paprika, caraway seeds (if using), dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and coat the meat and vegetables with the spices.
- Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef becomes tender. Stir occasionally.
- Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the sour cream and cheddar cheese, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Be careful not to let the mixture boil once you’ve added the dairy to prevent curdling.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the creamy and cheesy beef goulash over cooked egg noodles or rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and hearty creamy and cheesy beef goulash!