Pin
Advertisement
This Slow Cooker Goulash recipe is a go-to comfort meal when you want something hearty and hands-off. You toss everyday ingredients into your slow cooker and end up with a cozy one-pot dinner that tastes like it simmered all day. On busy weeks I often prep this in the morning and come home to a pot full of savory aromas that signal an effortless home-cooked meal.
I remember throwing this together before running out for errands and we returned to the house smelling like old-school potluck dinners My kids always ask for seconds
Ingredients
Advertisement
- Ground beef: buy lean for less grease and better texture
- Yellow onion: look for firm and fragrant onions for the sweetest flavor
- Minced garlic: jarred is quick but fresh cloves give a punchier flavor
- Green bell pepper: use crisp peppers with shiny skin for best color and bite
- Tomato basil pasta sauce: go for one with minimal sugar if you like a richer taste
- Tomato sauce: choose quality sauce with no added sweeteners for true tomato flavor
- Diced tomatoes: fire roasted brings extra depth
- Water: helps cook the pasta and balance the acidity
- Herb and garlic seasoning: use a blend that includes oregano and thyme for classic notes
- Pasta noodles: macaroni holds sauce well but penne works if you like more bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat breaking it apart with a spoon until it is cooked through and no pink remains. This step means no extra grease ends up in your final dish and gives your goulash richer flavor.
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Dice your onion and green bell pepper into even small pieces. Minced vegetables melt into the sauce providing subtle sweetness and freshness.
- Combine in the Slow Cooker:
- Add the browned beef onion bell pepper minced garlic pasta sauce tomato sauce diced tomatoes water and herb and garlic seasoning to your slow cooker. Stir everything to mix thoroughly. Layering everything in at once saves time and ensures the flavors mingle together as they cook.
- Cook Slowly:
- Set your slow cooker to high for 2 to 3 hours or low for 4 to 6 hours. Slow cooking breaks down the veggies and lets flavors deepen. It is fine to let it go for up to 8 hours on low if your schedule is unpredictable.
- Final Pasta Step:
- About 30 to 45 minutes before serving turn your slow cooker to high and stir in the pasta. Keep an eye so the noodles stay al dente and not mushy. Be ready to eat as soon as the pasta is done because it will quickly soften in the hot sauce.
Pin
Advertisement
My favorite trick is swapping in roasted red peppers for an extra smoky depth My grandma used to stir in a handful of sharp cheddar right before serving for a gooey finish and we would all hover around the slow cooker waiting for the first scoop
Storage Tips
Slow Cooker Goulash keeps well in sealed containers in the fridge for up to three days If you want to freeze it leave out the pasta and add freshly cooked noodles when reheating for best texture
Advertisement
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or even a plant based meat can stand in for ground beef For more veggie power chopped mushrooms or zucchini stir in well near the end Use any pasta shape you have on hand and whole wheat is great for adding fiber
Serving Suggestions
Serve this goulash with warm bread or garlic toast A green salad with a bright vinaigrette complements the rich tomato sauce For potlucks I like to top it with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan
Advertisement
Pin
Cultural Context
American style goulash draws inspiration from the classic Hungarian stew but turns it into a tomato and pasta based one pot meal This version became popular for its pantry friendliness and simplicity especially in Midwestern kitchens
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to swap in penne, shells, or any short pasta you have. Just add it near the end to avoid overcooking.
- → Is browning the beef necessary?
Browning adds flavor and improves texture, but you can add raw beef directly if you're short on time.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days for best flavor and texture.
- → Can this meal be frozen ahead of time?
Yes, combine the browned beef and all ingredients except pasta. Freeze up to three months, thaw fully before cooking.
- → How do I prevent pasta from becoming mushy?
Add pasta to the slow cooker only for the last 30–45 minutes, and serve as soon as it's cooked al dente.