Old-Fashioned Slow Cooker Goulash

Savor Old-Fashioned Slow Cooker Goulash, a comforting, hearty dish with tender beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce. This classic American-style meal is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, delivering nostalgic flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Old-Fashioned Slow Cooker Goulash is a warm, nostalgic dish that brings together juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce, creating a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. This budget-friendly recipe is a breeze to make, with the slow cooker doing most of the work, requiring minimal prep and cleanup. Its familiar, comforting flavors evoke childhood memories, while its versatility allows for easy ingredient swaps to suit dietary needs. Packed with protein and robust taste, this goulash pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread, offering a satisfying, wholesome dinner that everyone will love.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Brown Beef First: Cook ground beef until fully browned for richer flavor before adding to the slow cooker.
• Drain Excess Fat: Remove fat from beef after browning to avoid a greasy sauce.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Add cooked pasta at the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Layer Ingredients: Place denser veggies like onions at the bottom for even cooking.
• Check Sauce Consistency: Add more broth if too thick or simmer to reduce if too thin.
• Use a Liner: Place a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Yield: 8 Servings

Old-Fashioned Slow Cooker Goulash

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Old-Fashioned Slow Cooker Goulash, a hearty, savory dish perfect for cozy, nostalgic dinners.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika
• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes; drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Onion: Add diced onion to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes until soft, then add garlic for 1 minute.
3. Transfer to Crockpot: Move beef and onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
4. Add Sauce and Broth: Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and stir to combine.
5. Season the Mix: Add paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well to distribute flavors.
6. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until flavors meld.
7. Cook Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni separately according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
8. Combine Pasta: Stir cooked macaroni into the slow cooker, mixing gently to coat with sauce.
9. Check Consistency: Adjust with more broth if too thick or simmer briefly if too thin.
10. Serve with Flair: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and enjoy this hearty, nostalgic goulash!

Notes

• Browning beef enhances flavor but can be skipped; raw beef will cook in the slow cooker.
• Cook pasta separately to maintain texture; add just before serving to avoid mushiness.
• Leftovers are great in casseroles or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
• Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 272Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 76mgSodium 601mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 28g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (80/20) provides flavor without excess fat; ground turkey is a leaner option.
• Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice for goulash; small shells or rotini work well too.
• Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce forms the rich base; crushed tomatoes add texture.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add chunkiness; fire-roasted tomatoes enhance flavor.
• Onion: Yellow onion offers a savory foundation; red onion is a milder substitute.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds aroma; garlic powder is a quick alternative.
• Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth controls saltiness; vegetable broth can substitute.
• Paprika: Sweet paprika adds mild flavor; smoked paprika deepens the taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
• Pasta Alternatives: Swap macaroni for penne, farfalle, or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure broth and tomato products are gluten-free.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce for a fiery twist.
• Cheese Topping: Stir in cheddar or mozzarella at the end for a creamy finish.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and tomato products; adjust salt to taste.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezer: Freeze without pasta for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm with a splash of broth to restore consistency; add fresh pasta if needed.
• Meal Prep: Store sauce and pasta separately for easy assembly throughout the week.

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