Crock Pot Goulash

If I may say, goulash is one of those meals I find comforting. Just the aroma would take me back to family dinners where the kitchen would seem the coziest in the entire world. I love how making this dish fills the house with the memories of tomatoes, garlic, and beef slowly lulling me into nostalgia. With a few simple steps, anything goes into the slow cooker, and a few hours later, one is treated to a comforting, rich, and flavor-packed meal that tastes as if the cook toiled the whole day long.

What Is Crock Pot Goulash?

Crock Pot Goulash is a comforting, all-in-one meal with ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and a few famous seasonings. It is the slow-cooked version of American goulash (and sometimes called “slumgullion” in the old family cookbooks), a dish that takes inspiration from Hungarian-flavorful paprika and turns it into something easy, approachable, and family-friendly. Everything cooks together until the pasta is cooked through, and the sauce is thickened beautifully.

Why This Recipe Is Special

This isn’t just about convenience; this is about flavor that evolves as time passes. The slow cooking allows for a perfect incorporation of the tomato sauce and spices so that they coat every piece of macaroni and add flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, and you don’t have to stand at the stove watching it. Plus, it’s a recipe that fits any occasion—weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even cozy weekends when you just want something hearty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• They are a snap to make, as everything cooks in the Crock Pot, which is heaven-sent.
• The ultimate family recipe. Kids of all ages love it. Warm, tasty, and hearty.
• Very economical. Cooking is done with stuff that you probably already have in your pantry.
• It is extra nice for leftovers—the next day it’s even better.
• You can add other vegetables, change up the type of pasta, or throw in some heat; it’s totally your choice.

Tools You’ll Need

• Crock Pot (slow cooker): The star of the show—set it and forget it.
• Large skillet: For browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To break up the meat as it cooks.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To get your seasonings just right.
• Colander: To drain the pasta once it’s cooked.
• Mixing spoon or ladle: For stirring and serving that rich goulash.

Ingredients (US & Metric)

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900 g) ground beef – I like using lean beef to avoid excess grease.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because goulash without garlic just isn’t right.
• 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) tomato sauce – Gives that rich base.
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes – Adds texture and a little tang.
• 3 cups (710 ml) beef broth – Keeps everything saucy while the pasta cooks.
• 2 cups (200 g) uncooked elbow macaroni – The classic pasta choice.
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons paprika – Adds warmth and color.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings a touch of herby flavor.
• 1 cup (115 g) shredded cheddar cheese – Optional, but makes it extra cozy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using your wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat to keep the goulash from turning greasy.

(Tip: I like seasoning the beef lightly with salt and pepper at this stage—it locks in flavor early.)

2. Add Aromatics

Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened. That’s your base layer of flavor right there.

3. Load Up the Crock Pot

Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Then add the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything so it’s evenly blended.

4. Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. This is where the magic happens: the sauce thickens, and flavors become deep and rich.

5. Add the Pasta

Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni about 30 minutes before serving. Make sure it is sitting in the liquid, so it should cook evenly. Lid again and let it cook until the pasta is soft, about 25-30 minutes.

(If it seems a little thick, add a splash of broth or water. Don’t panic—goulash is forgiving!)

6. Finish with Cheese (Optional)

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar until it melts and turns the goulash creamy and comforting.

7. Serve

Give it one final stir, scoop it into bowls, and enjoy the warmth with some crusty bread on the side.

Serving Ideas

Serve the dish with either buttered garlic bread or a green salad to have a wholesome balance.

Garnish or finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for a fresh hint. Do you want to add some heat?

A similar dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes should do the trick.

Variations & Customizations

• Vegetable Boost: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Make It Spicy: Mix in cayenne pepper or use spicy sausage instead of beef.
• Cheesy Twist: Try mozzarella or a cheese blend for that gooey finish.
• Turkey Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta—just check it early to avoid overcooking.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely then freeze in portions for 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently warm on stovetop, with a splash of broth to loosen.
• Make Ahead: Cook the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate, adding it to the Crock Pot in the morning with other ingredients.

Pro Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Add it near the end so it stays firm and not mushy.
• Taste before serving: Slow cookers can mellow flavors, so adjust your seasoning at the end.
• Use lean beef: Less grease, more flavor.
• Keep the lid closed: Every time you peek, you lose heat and slow down cooking.
• Add cheese at the end: It should melt smoothly into the sauce, not clump.

Recipe Details

• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low (or 2–3 hours on high)
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Calories: About 420 per serving
• Protein: 28 g
• Carbs: 34 g
• Fat: 18 g

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about a slow-cooked meal that welcomes you home with that comforting aroma. Crock Pot Goulash is hearty, simple, and full of flavor—everything you want in a one-pot dinner. Once you make it, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite that never gets old.