Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover the crockpot with its lid.
- Set it on low for 6–7 hours, or high for 3–4 hours.
- During cooking, the flavors meld beautifully, and the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the crockpot.
- Cover and continue cooking until the pasta is tender (approximately 20–30 minutes).
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve
- Once the pasta is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover for 5 minutes to let the cheese melt.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Goulash:
- Meat Variations: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a lighter or spicier version.
- Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3–4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot goulash is easy to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and delivers maximum flavor. Its rich tomato sauce infused with paprika and herbs makes every bite comforting, while the tender pasta and beef create a satisfying, family-friendly meal. Plus, it’s flexible—you can customize it to your taste and pantry availability.
This simple yet hearty dish proves that slow cooking isn’t just convenient; it creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Serve it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad, and you’ve got a complete, soul-satisfying dinner.
If you want, I can also create a quick printable version with ingredient list and timing chart so you can just follow it in your kitchen without flipping through paragraphs. Do you want me to do that?
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