Slow Cooker Goulash Recipe (Easy to Prep Ahead!)

Short Description

This Slow Cooker Goulash is a hearty and comforting meal packed with rich flavors. Perfect for easy meal prep, this dish combines tender beef, tomatoes, and aromatic spices to create a delicious one-pot meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare with minimal effort
• Rich, savory flavors develop over slow cooking
• Perfect for meal prepping ahead of time
• Family-friendly and great for leftovers
• Works well with various side dishes

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper
• Elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta)
• Bell peppers, diced (optional)
• Bay leaves
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Combine in Slow Cooker: Add the cooked beef, chopped onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, bell peppers, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until flavors meld together.
4. Add Pasta: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cover and cook until pasta is tender.
5. Serve: Remove bay leaves, garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Up to 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with lentils and use vegetable broth.
• Cheesy Goulash: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the pasta and serve over roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Add extra broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and store in the fridge overnight before slow cooking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but adjust cooking time based on pasta type.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Add it in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What side dishes go well with goulash?

Serve with crusty bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Simmer all ingredients in a large pot for about an hour, adding pasta in the last 10 minutes.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes! Just omit the pasta before freezing and add fresh pasta when reheating.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the Parmesan cheese garnish.

What kind of beef works best?

Lean ground beef (85/15) is best for flavor and texture.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes or add a cornstarch slurry.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Goulash is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as leftovers, it’s a comforting meal the whole family will love. Try it today for a satisfying and stress-free dinner!

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