Crockpot Goulash Recipe: A Slow-Cooked Comfort Food Classic

Crockpot Goulash is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that combines tender ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and classic seasonings into one comforting dish. Cooking it slowly in a crockpot allows the flavors to blend together beautifully, creating a rich sauce and a satisfying family dinner with minimal effort.

Unlike traditional Hungarian goulash, which is a paprika-based meat stew, American-style goulash is a simple one-pot pasta dish often made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and macaroni. The slow cooker version takes this classic comfort food to another level by allowing the ingredients to develop a deeper, richer flavor over time.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal preparation, family gatherings, or when you want a warm homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Goulash

• Easy preparation: Most ingredients are added to the slow cooker and cooked with little attention.
• Rich flavor: Slow cooking allows the beef, tomatoes, and spices to create a delicious sauce.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are affordable and easy to find.
• Family-friendly: Mild flavors and cheesy pasta make it a favorite for both kids and adults.
• Great leftovers: The flavors become even better the next day.

Ingredients

For the Goulash

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, optional

Optional Additions

• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Parmesan cheese topping

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink.

Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot is an important step. It creates a deeper flavor and removes excess grease that could make the final dish too oily.

Once cooked, drain any extra fat from the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Using the same skillet, add the diced onion.

Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and slightly translucent.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

This step builds the flavor foundation of the dish. The sweetness of the onion and the warmth of the garlic add depth to the tomato sauce.

Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture into the crockpot.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to the slow cooker:

• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth

Stir everything together until the beef is evenly mixed with the sauce.

The combination of tomato sauce and tomato paste creates a rich, thick base, while diced tomatoes add texture.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Add:

• Worcestershire sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Bay leaves

Stir well to distribute the seasonings throughout the sauce.

The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, slightly smoky flavor, while paprika gives the goulash warmth and a beautiful color.

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