Crockpot goulash is a beloved staple that combines savory flavors with comforting ingredients, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or quiet weeknight dinners. This hearty meal is not just easy to prepare but also brings together the warmth of American comfort cuisine with a few Italian-inspired elements. With a medley of ground beef, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce, this Crockpot Goulash Recipe promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of paprika and garlic seasoning wafting through your house—a sure sign that a delicious dinner awaits! This dish is not just hearty but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various dietary preferences and occasions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both savory and aromatic.

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs for an added flavor dimension
• Meat:
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option). If using lean ground beef, consider using a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Pasta:
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (or gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free goulash). For a more unique texture, consider using cavatappi or fusilli pasta.
• Vegetables:
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green, depending on your preference)
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn). Fresh vegetables can be substituted if you prefer; just chop them into small pieces.
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option). You can use low-sodium broth for a healthier choice.

Steps / Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, which can help reduce the greasiness of the final dish and ensure that the flavors shine through.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large crockpot, combine the browned ground beef, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps in even cooking.
3. Add Pasta and Seasoning: Stir in the elbow macaroni, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. These spices are essential for adding depth to the dish, so make sure to mix thoroughly to coat all the pasta and vegetables.
4. Add Tomato Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring no dry pasta is left uncovered, which can lead to uneven cooking.
5. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The pasta should be tender, and the flavors well melded together. It’s important to check occasionally to avoid overcooking, as different crockpots can cook at varying rates.
6. Final Touches: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. If the goulash is too thick for your liking, add a little more broth to reach the desired consistency. Mixing in a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving can elevate the dish even further.

Tips & Tricks

For the best results, consider the following tips: You can learn more about this topic.

• Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality ground beef for a richer flavor. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Always check for lean meat, as this can significantly affect the texture and taste.
• Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just turn on your slow cooker in the morning, and dinner is ready when you get home! Consider preparing extra servings as it makes excellent leftovers.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to revive the sauce consistency.
• Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the pasta; adding it too early can lead to mushy noodles. Also, check your seasoning before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced; a dash of vinegar can enhance acidity if needed.

Variations

If you’re looking to customize your Crockpot Goulash Recipe, consider these variations: Check out our related guide for more tips.

• Vegan Goulash: Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth. This variation retains the heartiness while accommodating plant-based diets.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier dish. Adjust the amount to your heat preference for a delightful twist.
• Extra Veggies: Include zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. These ingredients not only boost the nutritional profile but also contribute to the dish’s overall texture.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Goulash Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl, perfect for family-friendly dinners and cozy nights in. The combination of hearty ingredients and rich flavors makes this dish a timeless classic that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, set the crockpot, and let the magic happen. Enjoy your delicious one-pot goulash, and don’t forget to share your experience or any variations you try! Remember, cooking is a journey, so feel free to experiment and make this dish your own.

Crockpot Goulash Recipe

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

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Servings

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Prep Time

15 min

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Cook Time

8 hr

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Calories

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Crockpot goulash is a beloved staple that combines savory flavors with comforting ingredients, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or quiet weeknight dinners. This hearty meal is not just easy to prepare but also brings together the warmth of American comfort cuisine with a few Italian-inspired elements. With a medley of ground beef, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce, this Crockpot Goulash Recipe promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

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Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs for an added flavor dimension
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 2 cups elbow macaroni (or gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free goulash)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)

Directions

1.

Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

2.

Combine Ingredients: In a large crockpot, combine the browned ground beef, chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir well.

3.

Add Pasta and Seasoning: Stir in the elbow macaroni, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4.

Add Tomato Base: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together.

5.

Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

6.

Final Touches: Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.