Easy Crockpot Goulash is a simple, comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ground beef, tender pasta, tomatoes, and a blend of flavorful seasonings come together in the slow cooker for a hearty dish the whole family will enjoy.

This recipe is versatile—add in veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition, or top with shredded cheese for a melty finish.

The crockpot makes it effortless, blending the flavors beautifully as it cooks.

Serve it with a side of garlic bread, and dinner is ready with minimal effort!

Why You’re Gonna Love This Dish

When you take that first bite of this Crockpot goulash, you’ll instantly understand why it’s a family favorite. The rich, savory flavors blend together like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Picture tender ground beef mingling with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a velvety tomato sauce that’s just the right balance of tangy and sweet. Each spoonful is packed with hearty veggies, bringing a pop of color and nutrition to the dish.

Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Just toss everything into the Crockpot, and it does all the work for you.

It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, sparking laughter and stories long after the last bite. You’re gonna love it!

Preparation Tips

To make the most of your Crockpot goulash experience, a few preparation tips can really elevate the dish.

First, I always chop my veggies—like bell peppers and onions—into bite-sized pieces. They’ll cook evenly and soak up all those delicious flavors.

Next, browning the meat beforehand adds a rich depth that I can’t resist. Don’t skip this step!

I also recommend measuring out your spices in advance. This way, you won’t have to scramble to find that paprika when it’s time to cook.

Finally, consider using quality pasta. It makes a huge difference in texture!

Trust me, these little efforts make a world of difference in transforming a good goulash into a great one. Happy cooking!

Recipe & Cooking Instructions

Crockpot Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cold weekends. This one-pot meal combines tender ground beef, pasta, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, making it a family favorite. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Cooking Instructions:

Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the beef to the slow cooker. This step guarantees that the beef has a nice texture and flavor before adding it to the goulash.
Add Vegetables: To the slow cooker, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper (if using). These vegetables will add depth and flavor to the dish, making it more robust and delicious.
Combine Tomato Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to guarantee that the ground beef and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to become tender and delicious.
Add Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. If your slow cooker has a lid, keep it on while the pasta cooks to guarantee it gets tender. This step allows the pasta to absorb the flavors of the dish while cooking in the sauce.
Serve and Garnish: Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, and if desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Extra Tips:

For an added kick, consider incorporating a splash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture.

You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add in any leftover vegetables or beans you have on hand to make it even heartier!

Chef’s Tips and Variations

Ever wondered how to elevate your Crockpot Goulash from good to great? One of my favorite tricks is to sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the pot. It brings out their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.

You can also experiment with different proteins—ground turkey or even diced sausage work wonders! If you’re craving a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before serving.

And don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for that pop of color! Trust me, these small tweaks can make your goulash truly unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving my Crockpot Goulash, I love to think outside the bowl. It’s not just about the dish itself; it’s about the whole experience.

I often serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for an extra comforting twist. If I’m feeling a bit lighter, I’ll spoon it over a fresh garden salad—those crunchy veggies really balance the hearty goulash.

For a fun twist, I’ve even layered it in a baked potato, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

And don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream can take it to the next level. Trust me, your guests will love these unique serving options!

Presentation Tips

A beautiful presentation can elevate your goulash from a simple meal to a stunning centerpiece. I love serving my goulash in a large, rustic bowl that invites everyone to dig in.

To add a pop of color, I sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top right before serving—it’s an instant game changer!

Nutritional Info & Health Benefits

Enjoying a hearty bowl of goulash not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritional punch. This comforting dish is loaded with protein from ground beef or turkey, helping keep you full and energized.

The combination of pasta and veggies adds essential fiber, which is great for digestion. Plus, the tomatoes provide a boost of antioxidants, promoting heart health.

When I whip up goulash in my crockpot, I love knowing I’m serving up a meal that’s not just delicious but also nutritious. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies, too!

Final Thoughts

Cooking goulash in my crockpot has become one of my go-to meals, and it’s easy to see why. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it simmers away is simply irresistible.

I love how I can toss everything in, set the timer, and go about my day without any hassle. When dinner rolls around, I’m greeted by a warm, hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfaction.

Plus, it’s versatile—I can switch up ingredients based on what I’ve on hand. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, goulash never disappoints.

Tiffany Christensen

Hi there! I'm Tiffany Christensen, and I have a passion for all the stories and lessons the Bible has to offer. Ever since I was little, I've been drawn to the way these ancient texts still resonate today. I've devoted my studies to Christian theology and enjoy translating that into everyday language that’s easy to connect with. My goal is to bring the pages of the Bible to life in a way that's both informative and engaging. I'm thrilled to share this journey with you through my writing on Biblical Pathway.

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