Crockpot Goulash

Description:

Crockpot Goulash is a comforting, slow-cooked, one-pot meal made with ground beef, tender pasta, tomatoes, and seasonings. Perfect for busy days, this hearty dish combines the flavors of a classic American-style goulash with the convenience of a slow cooker. It’s warm, savory, and family-approved!

Ingredients for Crockpot Goulash 

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Meat:
   In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

2. Add to Crockpot:
   Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add garlic, beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

3. Slow Cook:
   Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours.

4. Add Pasta:
   About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked macaroni. Cover and continue to cook until pasta is tender.

5. Add Cheese (Optional):
   Stir in shredded cheddar cheese just before serving or sprinkle it on top.

6. Serve:
   Spoon into bowls and garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes:

• Pasta can become mushy if overcooked; add it at the end.

• You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrition.

• Can be doubled to feed a crowd.

Tips:

• Prevent soggy pasta by only adding it near the end.

• For spicy goulash, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne.

• Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

• Freezes well — store in portions for easy meals.

Servings:

• Serves 6 generous portions

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – estimate):

• Calories: ~380

• Protein: 23g

• Carbs: 34g

• Fat: 17g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: ~650mg

Benefits:

• Time-saving: Prep in the morning, enjoy at dinner.

• Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

• Family-friendly: Kids love it, and leftovers reheat well.

• One-pot meal: Minimal cleanup!

Q&A:

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

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Absolutely — penne, rotini, or shells work well too.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Cool and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I cook the pasta separately?
A: Yes, especially if you plan to freeze it. Add cooked pasta to warm goulash before serving.