Slow Cooker Goulash Recipe

This Slow Cooker Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that brings the best of American-style comfort food into a single, easy-to-make meal. With ground beef, tender pasta, tomatoes, and warm spices, it’s everything you want in a cozy one-pot dinner. Cooking it in the slow cooker allows the flavors to develop deeply while keeping your kitchen work minimal. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or satisfying a family craving for a homestyle classic. This recipe takes basic pantry staples and turns them into something rich, saucy, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Family Favorite

Everything cooks in one slow cooker, making cleanup easy and saving time on busy nights.

2. Rich, Comforting Flavor

A blend of tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs gives the dish a deep, savory taste.

3. Incredibly Filling

Ground beef, pasta, and hearty vegetables make this a complete and satisfying meal.

4. Budget-Friendly Ingredients

Uses affordable, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.

5. Great for Leftovers

Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for batch cooking or meal prep.

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Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Yellow onion
• Minced garlic
• Green bell pepper
• Tomato basil pasta sauce
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Water
• Herb and garlic seasoning
• Pasta noodles

Variations

Make It Spicy

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a kick of heat.

Use a Different Protein

Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.

Add More Vegetables

Stir in mushrooms, corn, or zucchini to increase the nutritional content.

Try Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta

Adjust the cooking time if using alternative pastas to prevent overcooking.

Use Italian Seasoning

If you don’t have herb and garlic seasoning, Italian seasoning works as a great substitute.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add garlic, bell pepper, pasta sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, and seasoning. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Stir in uncooked pasta noodles. Cover and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Serve

Once the pasta is fully cooked, stir the goulash well and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Brown the meat first: This adds flavor and prevents grease from pooling in the slow cooker.
• Use hearty pasta: Elbow macaroni or rotini hold up well during slow cooking.
• Stir after adding pasta: This helps prevent clumping or uneven cooking.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste and add salt, pepper, or more herbs if needed.
• Use a liner or spray oil: To make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.

How to Serve

Serve hot in bowls, optionally topped with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. Pair with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid.

FAQs

1. Can I cook the pasta from the beginning?

It’s best to add pasta at the end to avoid mushy noodles.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based meat or skip the meat and add extra vegetables or lentils.

3. What kind of pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne hold their shape well and cook evenly.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you may need to add more seasoning and liquid to match the flavor and consistency.

5. What’s the best way to add more flavor?

Try adding Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, or a splash of balsamic vinegar.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough and adjust cooking time as needed.

7. Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, but pasta can soften when frozen and reheated. Consider undercooking it slightly before freezing.

8. How do I avoid watery goulash?

Use less water if your tomatoes or sauce are very liquid-heavy and let it sit uncovered briefly before serving.

9. Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

Yes, stir it in right before serving instead of cooking it in the slow cooker.

10. What’s the difference between goulash and spaghetti?

Goulash is thicker, often includes diced tomatoes and more vegetables, and the pasta is mixed in rather than served underneath.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Goulash is the perfect meal for when you want comfort food that’s both easy and satisfying. Its rich tomato base, tender pasta, and seasoned ground beef come together in a hearty dish that’s full of flavor and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe offers convenience, nutrition, and cozy appeal all in one pot. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s a go-to favorite for anyone craving a nostalgic, home-cooked dinner.

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