CROCKPOT GOULASH RECIPE

How to Make Crockpot Goulash (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Brown ground beef in a skillet until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Load the Crockpot

Add beef, onion, bell pepper, garlic, tomatoes (all three!), broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker. Stir well.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and let it cook until tender.

Step 5: Make It Cheesy (Optional)

Sprinkle cheddar on top and let it melt. Magic.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with parsley. Breathe in that incredible aroma!

What to Serve With Crockpot Goulash

• Warm garlic bread

• Green salad with balsamic dressing

• Roasted broccoli or green beans

• Steamed corn

• A dollop of sour cream on top (trust me!)

Tips for the Best Goulash

• Add pasta ONLY at the end—otherwise, it’ll turn mushy.

• If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of broth.

• Want deeper flavor? Brown the onions with the beef first.

• Stir occasionally during the final pasta-cooking stage.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze without the pasta for best texture—up to 3 months.
Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reheating:
Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen.

General Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 hours

• Yield: 6–8 servings

• Difficulty: Easy

• Great for: Weeknights, meal prep, family dinners

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta works—just avoid very tiny shapes.

Can I skip browning the beef?

You can, but browning adds so much flavor. Highly recommended.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely—use plant-based meat or extra veggies and swap beef broth for vegetable broth.

Why is my pasta mushy?

It cooked too long. Add it in the last 20–30 minutes only.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes—use a larger crockpot, or cook in batches.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Goulash is everything a weeknight dinner should be: easy, hearty, flavorful, and oh-so cozy. With minimal effort and maximum payoff, it’s one of those recipes you’ll make again and again. And if you love cooking with tomatoes or want more cozy classics, don’t miss my other peachy—yes, peach-forward!—favorites coming soon.