Slow Cooker Goulash

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love, then this Slow Cooker Goulash is just the ticket! This dish has a way of bringing everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering. The rich, beefy flavor combined with cheesy goodness makes it a standout recipe that warms both the heart and the belly. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that you can throw everything in the slow cooker and forget about it until dinner time!

What I adore about this Slow Cooker Goulash is how simple it is. With straightforward ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ease of preparation: Just brown the meat and toss everything into the slow cooker—so simple!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every cheesy bite.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep this goulash earlier in the day and let it simmer until you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of spices, meat, and cheese creates a dish that’s packed with taste.
• Versatile leftovers: It tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze with this recipe! You’ll find that these are all simple, wholesome items you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.

For the Goulash

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 Tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups bone broth (or chicken broth or beef broth)
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (2 cups, cooked according to package directions)

Variations

This Slow Cooker Goulash is highly adaptable! Feel free to play around with ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in zucchini, carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a kick!

How to Make Slow Cooker Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s fully cooked. This step adds flavor through browning, which enhances the overall taste of your goulash. Once browned, transfer it to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, add all remaining ingredients (except for the macaroni and cheese) to your slow cooker. Stir everything together well. This ensures that all those delicious flavors meld while cooking!

Step 3: Let It Cook

Cover your slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-6 hours. If you have time, letting it simmer on low for up to 8 hours allows those flavors to deepen even more.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Pasta

Once your goulash is cooked to perfection, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Then gently fold in your cooked elbow macaroni. This step adds creaminess and makes every bite satisfying!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Taste your goulash and adjust seasonings if needed. Then serve it up warm! This dish is best enjoyed with loved ones gathered around the table—don’t forget some crusty bread on the side to soak up all that deliciousness!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Goulash

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Goulash is all about attention to detail and a few simple tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out absolutely delicious!

• Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Ensure you brown the ground beef well before adding it to the slow cooker. This enhances the flavor and results in a richer, more savory goulash.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the Italian seasoning and salt based on your preference. A little extra seasoning can take your goulash from good to great!

• Cook Pasta Separately for Best Texture: While you can cook the elbow macaroni directly in the slow cooker, cooking it separately ensures that it doesn’t become mushy. This way, you’ll have perfect pasta every time.

• Utilize Leftovers Creatively: If you have any leftovers, try using them as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a topping for baked potatoes. It’s a great way to enjoy goulash in a new way!

• Make It Ahead of Time: Prepare your ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Simply add them to your slow cooker in the morning for an easy dinner when you get home.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Goulash

Serving your Slow Cooker Goulash is just as important as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a delightful dining experience for your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top offers a creamy contrast that complements the hearty flavors beautifully.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for added spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of goulash sauce. It’s simple yet satisfying!
• Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a crisp contrast to the rich goulash, adding nutrients and vibrant color to your plate.
• Mixed green salad: A fresh mixed salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the goulash, making for a complete meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add depth and flavor while pairing wonderfully with the comforting nature of this dish.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions according to your taste! Enjoy your deliciously cozy Slow Cooker Goulash!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Goulash is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and manage your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the goulash to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the goulash cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high in 1-minute intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Slow Cooker Goulash.

Can I use another type of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.

How do I make Slow Cooker Goulash without pasta?

For a gluten-free option, you can omit the elbow macaroni and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition!

Can I prepare Slow Cooker Goulash the night before?

Yes! You can chop all your ingredients and put them in your slow cooker insert. Cover it and refrigerate overnight. Just add it to the slow cooker in the morning.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Goulash?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, crusty bread, or even some steamed vegetables. It’s versatile!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Slow Cooker Goulash as much as I do! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Please try this recipe and share it with family—it’s truly a crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!