Short Description
If you’re in the mood for a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, this Slow Cooker Goulash is just what you need. With tender ground beef, pasta, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Goulash is a total game-changer. It’s the kind of recipe you can toss together in the morning, let the slow cooker do all the work, and come home to a delicious, filling meal. The ground beef combines with pasta, tomatoes, and spices to create a comforting dish that tastes even better the next day. Plus, it’s a great way to use up pantry staples, making it an easy go-to for busy days.

Ingredients
Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll need:

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Elbow macaroni

For the full list of ingredients and exact measurements, check below!

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, drain the excess fat. Then, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is softened and fragrant. This adds a great base flavor for your goulash.

Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Sauce
Transfer the beef mixture into your slow cooker. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and tomato sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the beef is well coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Season It Up
Now it’s time to add your seasonings. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy—like Italian seasoning or paprika. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and your kitchen will start to smell amazing!

Step 5: Add the Pasta
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the elbow macaroni. Cover the slow cooker again, and cook on low until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Don’t overcook the pasta in the slow cooker! Add it toward the end to keep it from getting mushy.
If you want to make this dish a bit creamier, you can stir in a little cream cheese or shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
If you like a little kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
Try using a different type of pasta, like penne or rotini, instead of elbow macaroni.
If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with a meat alternative or simply use more vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This goulash is great on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. You could also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for added creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it gets too thick. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, so you can make a big batch and save some for later.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage would work well in this recipe.
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld, so it’s perfect for meal prepping or making the night before.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or even small shells would work just as well as elbow macaroni.

Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Goulash is a perfect example of a simple, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor. It’s so easy to throw together, and the slow cooker does all the work. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy!

Slow Cooker Goulash

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If you’re in the mood for a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor, this Slow Cooker Goulash is just what you need. With tender ground beef, pasta, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, pasta sauce, water, and herb and garlic seasoning. Stir to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the elbow macaroni. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, serve the goulash hot, optionally garnished with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to add the pasta toward the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming mushy. Stir it in about 30 minutes before serving.
Customize the Spice Level: If you like your goulash with a bit of heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
Creamy Version: For a creamier texture, try stirring in some cream cheese or shredded cheddar cheese during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This will add richness to the dish.
Meal Prep Friendly: This goulash holds up well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors only improve over time. It also freezes nicely, so it’s a great make-ahead meal.