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Hearty Crockpot Goulash served in a bowl with ingredients visible

Hearty Crockpot Goulash

A comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Meat and Vegetables
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef Browned before adding to the slow cooker
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth of flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor
Pasta and Sauces
  • 2 cups dry elbow macaroni Can substitute with other pasta shapes
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained Rich in flavor; adds moisture
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce Base for the goulash
  • 2 cups beef broth Adds richness
Seasonings
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Enhances savory flavor
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning Gives a herby flavor profile
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds a subtle smokiness
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt To taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper To taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is softened. Drain the excess grease.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  3. Transfer the beef mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or HIGH for 2 to 3 hours.
  2. Stir in the dry elbow macaroni about 30 minutes before serving.
  3. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20 to 30 minutes, until the pasta is just tender.
  4. Stir well and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot, garnished with cheese or parsley. Pairs well with garlic bread or salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.