Slow Cooker Goulash

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve found it with this Slow Cooker Goulash! This rich, beefy, and cheesy delight is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The best part? You can simply dump all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do all the work. It’s an easy recipe that not only satisfies but also brings everyone together around the dinner table.

This Slow Cooker Goulash is a favorite in my house because of its simple preparation and delicious flavor. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for those hectic days when cooking feels like a chore. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that combines pasta, cheese, and hearty meat? It’s truly comfort food at its finest!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No complicated steps here! Just brown the meat and toss everything into your slow cooker.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this cheesy goulash—it’s always a hit!
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning and come home to a warm, ready meal.
• Hearty Flavor: With rich ingredients like ground beef and melted cheese, each bite is packed with deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Slow Cooker Goulash, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that create layers of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Base

• 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)

For the Tomatoes

• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes (undrained)

For the Final Touch

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (2 cups, cooked according to package directions; or see notes below to cook directly in crockpot)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or chili powder for 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 cooked through. This step enhances the flavor of the meat and gives your goulash that delicious depth. Once browned, add the beef to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Mix in Ingredients

Next, add all remaining ingredients—except for the macaroni and cheese—into your slow cooker. Stir everything together well so that all those flavors meld beautifully as they cook.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic! Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or on LOW for 4-6 hours. If you’ve got time, let it simmer on low for up to 8 hours; this allows all those flavors to deepen even more.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Pasta

Once cooking time is up, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into gooey goodness. Then gently fold in your cooked elbow macaroni. This step combines everything into one delightful dish that’s sure to please.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, season your goulash with extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and watch everyone enjoy this comforting meal made with love!

Now you’re ready to share this delightful dish with family or friends—you’ll be hearing requests for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Goulash

Slow Cooker Goulash is a breeze to prepare, but a few tips can take it from great to absolutely amazing!

• Choose High-Quality Beef: Using lean ground beef ensures your dish is hearty without being overly greasy, allowing the flavors of the other ingredients to shine through.

• Don’t Skip the Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor to your goulash. It enhances the overall taste and makes the dish more aromatic.

• Simmer Longer for Flavor: If time allows, let your goulash simmer on low for the full 8 hours. This slow cooking process melds all the flavors together beautifully, creating a richer and more satisfying dish.

• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. They’ll not only boost nutrition but also add different textures and flavors.

• Use Broth Wisely: Bone broth is packed with nutrients and adds a wholesome goodness to the goulash. If you don’t have bone broth, chicken or beef broth are great substitutes that will still provide excellent flavor.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Goulash

Serving Slow Cooker Goulash can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish in style.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.

• Sour Cream Alternative: A dollop of dairy-free sour cream or yogurt can enhance creaminess and balance out the spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and complements the hearty nature of goulash well.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a splash of color and nutrients to your meal while keeping it healthy. The slight crunch contrasts nicely with the soft goulash.

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpart to the richness of the goulash, making for a balanced meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots and bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a warm, comforting side that pairs excellently with this dish.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this delightful Slow Cooker Goulash! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Goulash is not only a simple, delicious dish to prepare, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have hearty meals ready to go during the busy week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label and date your containers for easy identification.

Freezing

• Portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on the defrost setting.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.
• Stir well and serve hot!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I cook the pasta directly in the Slow Cooker Goulash?

Yes! To cook pasta directly in the slow cooker, add uncooked elbow macaroni during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed to ensure it cooks evenly.

How can I make this Slow Cooker Goulash healthier?

You can make this recipe healthier by using leaner ground beef or substituting with ground turkey. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding additional chopped vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

Can I use different types of cheese in my Slow Cooker Goulash?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for varied flavors. Just be sure to use cheese that melts well!

How long does Slow Cooker Goulash last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Slow Cooker Goulash can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Slow Cooker Goulash as much as I do! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth and joy to family dinners. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Don’t hesitate to try it out – I can’t wait to hear how your family loves it!