Crockpot Goulash

📖 Description:

Crockpot Goulash is a comforting and hearty American-style dish made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and a flavorful blend of spices. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, feeding a crowd, or enjoying as leftovers.

📝 Ingredients for Crockpot Goulash

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or turkey)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

• 2 cups beef broth

• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

🥣 Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onions until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

2. Layer in Crockpot:

   • Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the crockpot. Add garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings. Stir to combine.

3. Cook:

   • Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

4. Add Pasta:

   • 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked macaroni. Continue cooking on high until pasta is tender.

5. Finish:

   • Stir in shredded cheese (if using) and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

📝 Notes:

• You can substitute elbow macaroni with rotini or shells.

• For added richness, stir in ½ cup of sour cream at the end.

• This goulash thickens as it sits; add a splash of broth when reheating.

💡 Tips:

• Prevent mushy pasta: Only add macaroni at the end to avoid overcooking.

• Add veggies: Stir in bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition.

• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.

• Double batch: Freezes well—just leave out the pasta and add fresh when reheating.

🍽️ Servings:

6–8 servings

🔍 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):

(based on 8 servings, without cheese)

• Calories: 340

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fat: 15g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sodium: 580mg

🌟 Benefits:

• Easy to prepare: Slow cooker does most of the work.

• Hearty & filling: Great comfort food.

• Family-friendly: Mild flavors that appeal to kids and adults.

• Meal prep: Tastes even better the next day.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes, but cook it separately and stir in just before serving to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 4 days in an airtight container. Add a splash of broth when reheating.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. It’s best to freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked noodles when serving.