Introduction
Crockpot Goulash is a hearty, comforting meal made with tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, tomatoes, sweet corn, and flavorful seasonings. This easy slow cooker recipe brings together simple pantry ingredients to create a satisfying family dinner with minimal effort. It is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or whenever you crave a warm, homemade meal.
Origin
American goulash is a classic comfort food inspired in name by Hungarian goulash, a traditional stew known for its paprika-rich flavor. Over time, American-style goulash evolved into a different dish, often featuring ground beef, tomatoes, macaroni, and seasonings. This crockpot version makes preparation even easier by using a slow cooker to develop the flavors with less hands-on cooking.
Cultural Significance
Goulash has earned a special place in American home cooking as an affordable, filling, and family-friendly meal. Many families have their own versions, adding vegetables, different seasonings, or extra cheese. Its simple ingredients and generous portions make it a popular choice for potlucks, family gatherings, and comforting weeknight dinners.
Ingredients Quantity
Serves 6–8 people
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) sweet corn, drained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Optional Additions
- Bell peppers: Add one diced green or red bell pepper for extra flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch for gentle heat.
- Mushrooms: Stir in sliced mushrooms for an earthy taste.
- Kidney beans: Add one drained can for extra texture and fiber.
- Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over each serving.
- Fresh herbs: Finish with chopped parsley for freshness.
Tips for Success
- Brown the beef first: Cook the ground beef and onion in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Drain excess grease.
- Add the pasta at the right time: For the best texture, cook the macaroni separately and stir it into the goulash near the end.
- Season gradually: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Avoid overcooking: Macaroni can become mushy if left in the slow cooker for too long.
- Make it thicker: If the sauce seems thin, leave the lid slightly ajar for a short time while monitoring the consistency.
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion softens. Drain excess fat and add the minced garlic for the final minute.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot.
- Add the sauce ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, drained corn, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the flavors have blended and the mixture is hot throughout.
- Cook the macaroni: Near the end of the cooking time, boil the elbow macaroni separately according to the package directions until just tender. Drain well.
- Combine: Stir the cooked macaroni into the crockpot and mix thoroughly. If using cheddar cheese, stir it in until melted.
- Serve: Let the goulash rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Food safety tip: Use a food thermometer to ensure the ground beef reaches 160°F (71°C). Avoid leaving cooked macaroni in the slow cooker for an extended period.
Description
This Crockpot Goulash features tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich tomato sauce, flavorful ground beef, and sweet corn. Every bite offers a delicious balance of savory meat, tangy tomatoes, and comforting pasta. It is a one-pot-style family favorite that delivers homemade flavor without requiring hours of active cooking.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings without optional cheese.
- Calories: 430–520
- Protein: 25–32 g
- Carbohydrates: 45–55 g
- Fat: 14–22 g
- Fiber: 4–7 g
- Sodium: 600–950 mg
Actual values vary depending on the fat content of the beef, pasta brand, broth, and canned ingredients.
Conclusion
Crockpot Goulash is an easy, budget-friendly dinner that combines familiar ingredients into a warm and satisfying meal. With ground beef, macaroni, tomatoes, and sweet corn, it is a wonderful option for feeding a hungry family. Prepare it ahead, customize the seasonings, and enjoy a comforting dish that everyone can gather around.
Recommendation
Serve your goulash with warm garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and freshly chopped parsley just before serving. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3–4 days and reheated thoroughly with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoy this comforting classic while making a few simple adjustments to suit your preferences. Choose lean ground beef, use whole-wheat macaroni, and add extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also reduce the sodium by selecting no-salt-added tomatoes and low-sodium broth.
With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, Crockpot Goulash can be part of a varied, balanced diet while still delivering the rich, homemade comfort that makes this recipe a family favorite.