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Here’s a detailed and unique article about Crockpot Goulash, complete with a step-by-step method. I made it thorough and easy to follow.

Crockpot Goulash: Comfort in a Bowl

When it comes to hearty, soul-warming meals, few dishes can compete with a steaming bowl of goulash. Traditionally a Hungarian stew, goulash combines tender meat, robust vegetables, and a rich paprika-flavored sauce. Using a crockpot to prepare this classic dish not only simplifies the process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours, creating a dish that feels like it’s been simmering all day. Here’s a detailed guide to making Crockpot Goulash that will become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Goulash:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or stew beef cubes for a chunkier texture)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 cup tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp paprika (preferably Hungarian sweet paprika)
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smokiness)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and chopping all vegetables. Dice the onions and peppers into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Mince the garlic finely to release its full aroma. If using beef cubes instead of ground beef, cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)

Although crockpot cooking can handle raw meat, browning the ground beef or beef cubes in a skillet over medium heat before adding them to the crockpot enhances the flavor. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking up large chunks if using ground meat. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

In the crockpot, combine the browned beef with the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Sprinkle in paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce if you like a mild kick.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Goulash

Cover the crockpot and set it to low heat for 6–8 hours or high heat for 3–4 hours. The long cooking process allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to fully blend into a rich, aromatic sauce.