Crockpot Goulash

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📖 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.

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