Crockpot Goulash Recipe

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Introduction

Crockpot Goulash is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully simple to prepare. With tender ground beef, soft elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. Slow-cooked to perfection, it allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a meal that’s both satisfying and effortless. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this one-pot wonder will quickly become a household favorite.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Goulash originated in Hungary centuries ago as a hearty stew made by shepherds who cooked meat and vegetables in large pots over open fires. The name “gulyás” literally means “herdsman’s stew.” Over time, the dish spread across Europe and eventually to America, where it evolved into various comforting adaptations. The American goulash — often made with ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta — became a symbol of mid-century home cooking: affordable, filling, and family-friendly. Today, Crockpot Goulash carries that tradition forward, blending old-world heartiness with modern convenience.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional, for serving)

Optional Additions

  • Vegetables: Add diced zucchini, corn, or carrots for extra nutrition.
  • Hot sauce or crushed red pepper: For a touch of heat.
  • Ground turkey or sausage: Substitute or mix for a lighter or spicier version.
  • Smoked paprika: To add depth and a hint of smokiness.
  • Fresh herbs: Sprinkle basil or parsley on top before serving.

Tips for Success

  1. Brown the meat first: Browning adds richness and prevents the final dish from being greasy.
  2. Don’t overcook the pasta: Add it during the last part of cooking so it stays tender, not mushy.
  3. Adjust seasoning near the end: Slow cooking can mellow spices, so taste before serving and adjust.
  4. For thicker sauce: Let the goulash cook uncovered for the final 30 minutes.
  5. Double the batch: This recipe freezes beautifully — perfect for meal prepping.

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef:
    In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  2. Combine Ingredients in Crockpot:
    Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker. Add the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  3. Slow Cook:
    Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, allowing the flavors to blend.
  4. Add Pasta:
    During the last 30–40 minutes of cooking, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Continue cooking until pasta is tender.
  5. Finish and Serve:
    Stir well before serving. Top with shredded cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a simple salad.

Description

This Crockpot Goulash is rich and savory, with a velvety tomato sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and ground beef. The slow-cooked method enhances every flavor, from the sweetness of the tomatoes to the mild heat of paprika. The texture is hearty but comforting, delivering that home-cooked taste that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 410
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Conclusion and Recommendation

Crockpot Goulash is a timeless dish that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and a single pot, you can create a satisfying, family-friendly meal that fills your kitchen with incredible aroma and your plate with classic flavor. Whether served as a weeknight dinner, meal prep favorite, or potluck star, it’s a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that always delivers.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To make this dish more wholesome, use lean ground beef or turkey, whole wheat pasta, and low-sodium broth. Add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for fiber and vitamins. You can also reduce the cheese or use a lighter version for the same comforting texture with fewer calories. Healthful indulgence means enjoying satisfying meals that nourish both the body and the spirit — and this Crockpot Goulash does just that, proving that comfort and balance can coexist deliciously.

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