Description
This cozy Crock Pot Goulash is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy days. Ground beef, tomatoes, spices, and elbow macaroni come together in a slow cooker for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Base
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onions: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Toss in the diced onion and garlic, and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Combine the base ingredients: Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cook it low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover again and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the macaroni is cooked through, ladle the goulash into bowls. Optionally, sprinkle with shredded cheese for extra flavor and serve warm.
Notes
- For a thicker goulash, reduce the broth slightly or cook uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
- Shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella makes a delicious topping.
- Can be made ahead and reheated; flavors improve after resting.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crock Pot Goulash, Slow Cooker Goulash, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Ground Beef Recipe, One Pot Meal
