. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the beef is brown and the onion is clear. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is extra fat, drain it. This step adds flavor and keeps your goulash rich. Next, transfer the beef mix to your crock pot. Add 1 diced bell pepper, 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice), 1 can of tomato sauce, and 2 cups of beef broth. These ingredients bring moisture and taste. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked elbow macaroni, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the pasta with sauce. Cover the crock pot. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goulash is ready when the pasta is soft. Once cooked, stir gently. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to melt the cheese. Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a bright touch. For a full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your hearty meal! To get pasta just right in your goulash, use elbow macaroni. It cooks well in the slow cooker. Add the uncooked pasta during the last hour of cooking. This way, it will soak up all the tasty flavors. Stir gently to coat every piece. Overcooking will make it mushy, so watch the time. While the basic recipe is great, you can add more flavor. Try adding a bay leaf for depth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce brings a nice umami taste. You can also throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can brighten up the dish. Just remember to balance the flavors and taste as you go. One big mistake is not browning the meat first. This step adds a lot of flavor. Also, don’t skip the broth. It keeps everything moist as it cooks. Avoid adding too much pasta at once, as it can soak up all the liquid. Finally, don’t rush the cooking time. Low and slow gives the best results. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_2}} You can make a tasty vegetarian version of goulash. Start by using plant-based ground meat or lentils. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. Add more veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for texture. This version still keeps the heartiness of the dish while being meat-free. You will enjoy the rich flavors and colors from the fresh produce. For a gluten-free goulash, switch to gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer elbow macaroni made from rice or corn. Ensure your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy a warm, comforting meal without the gluten. You will find that it still tastes delicious and filling. If you like heat, try adding chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also mix in diced jalapeños for a fresh kick. For a unique twist, drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish. Adjust the spice levels to your taste. This spicy version will make your goulash stand out and keep things exciting. Feel free to explore these variations for your own goulash. Each option keeps the spirit of comfort while adding your personal touch. Check out the Full Recipe for more details. To store leftover goulash, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors fresh and tasty. When you are ready to eat, reheat the goulash gently. You can use the microwave or a pot on the stove. If using a microwave, add a splash of water. This keeps the dish moist. Heat it until it's warm all the way through. Stir it halfway to ensure even heating. Freezing goulash is easy and a great way to save it for later. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Try to remove as much air as possible. Label it with the date before placing it in the freezer. You can enjoy it later, up to three months later. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For best results, follow the [Full Recipe] steps when cooking again. Yes, you can use other meats. Ground turkey or chicken work well. You could also use beef stew meat. Just cut it into small pieces. Cooking times may vary a bit, so check for doneness. Crock Pot Goulash pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad adds freshness too. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with garlic bread. Goulash lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. For best taste, eat it within this time frame. Yes, you can make goulash on the stovetop. Just follow the same steps, but cook it in a pot. Use medium heat and stir often. The cooking time will be shorter, about 30 to 40 minutes. To make goulash creamy, add cream cheese or sour cream. Stir it in just before serving. This will give your dish a rich and smooth texture. You can also sprinkle in some cheese while cooking for extra creaminess. Try the Full Recipe for more tips! To make the best Crock Pot goulash, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you should gather: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color) - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) - 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce - 2 cups beef broth - 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked) - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Each of these ingredients plays a role. Ground beef provides protein and richness. Onions and garlic add depth of flavor. Bell peppers bring sweetness and color. Tomatoes and broth create a hearty base. Elbow macaroni adds texture and makes it filling. When choosing your ingredients, aim for quality. Fresh vegetables and good beef make a big difference. For the best taste, use low-sodium broth. This helps control the salt in your dish. You can find the full recipe above to ensure you have everything you need. This dish is easy to adapt as well, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Crock Pot goulash combines simple ingredients and steps for a tasty dish. We discussed key ingredients and how to pick quality ones for the best flavor. I shared easy cooking tips, common mistakes to avoid, and fun variations. You can also store leftovers easily to enjoy later. With this guide, you're set to make the best goulash. Happy cooking!](https://therecipehatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ecdd954d-4cb9-49b3-bd16-21bce123496f.webp)
If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that’s easy to make, look no further than Crock Pot goulash. This simple dish blends meat, pasta, and veggies for a comforting feast. In just a few steps, you can have a filling dinner ready for your family. Follow along as I share my secret tips, variations, and storage ideas to make your goulash truly shine! Let’s dive into this cozy recipe together.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Crock Pot Goulash
To make a tasty goulash, you need some key ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These ingredients create a rich and hearty base for your goulash. The ground beef gives it depth, while the onion and garlic add warmth and flavor. The tomatoes and broth make the dish juicy and savory.
Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor
You can add extra ingredients to make your goulash even better. Consider these options:
– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce for some heat
These optional ingredients can boost the taste and texture. Corn adds sweetness, while beans bring protein and fiber. Hot sauce can spice things up, making your meal more exciting.
Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients
Choosing the right ingredients makes a big difference. Here are some tips:
– Ground beef: Look for 80% lean to 20% fat for flavor.
– Vegetables: Fresh vegetables will enhance taste. Choose firm and bright bell peppers.
– Canned goods: Check for low-sodium options in sauces and broths for healthier meals.
– Cheese: Use a good quality cheddar for the best melt and flavor.
Quality ingredients lead to a better goulash. Fresh and flavorful items ensure that your meal tastes great. Using the right products helps create a dish you will love. You can find the full recipe for this comforting meal [here](#).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meat and Vegetables
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the beef is brown and the onion is clear. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is extra fat, drain it. This step adds flavor and keeps your goulash rich.
Adding Ingredients to the Crock Pot
Next, transfer the beef mix to your crock pot. Add 1 diced bell pepper, 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice), 1 can of tomato sauce, and 2 cups of beef broth. These ingredients bring moisture and taste. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked elbow macaroni, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the pasta with sauce.
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
Cover the crock pot. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goulash is ready when the pasta is soft. Once cooked, stir gently. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to melt the cheese. Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a bright touch.
For a full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta
To get pasta just right in your goulash, use elbow macaroni. It cooks well in the slow cooker. Add the uncooked pasta during the last hour of cooking. This way, it will soak up all the tasty flavors. Stir gently to coat every piece. Overcooking will make it mushy, so watch the time.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Seasonings
While the basic recipe is great, you can add more flavor. Try adding a bay leaf for depth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce brings a nice umami taste. You can also throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can brighten up the dish. Just remember to balance the flavors and taste as you go.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Goulash
One big mistake is not browning the meat first. This step adds a lot of flavor. Also, don’t skip the broth. It keeps everything moist as it cooks. Avoid adding too much pasta at once, as it can soak up all the liquid. Finally, don’t rush the cooking time. Low and slow gives the best results. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Vegetarian Crock Pot Goulash
You can make a tasty vegetarian version of goulash. Start by using plant-based ground meat or lentils. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. Add more veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for texture. This version still keeps the heartiness of the dish while being meat-free. You will enjoy the rich flavors and colors from the fresh produce.
Gluten-Free Options for Goulash
For a gluten-free goulash, switch to gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer elbow macaroni made from rice or corn. Ensure your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy a warm, comforting meal without the gluten. You will find that it still tastes delicious and filling.
Spicy Goulash Variations
If you like heat, try adding chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also mix in diced jalapeños for a fresh kick. For a unique twist, drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish. Adjust the spice levels to your taste. This spicy version will make your goulash stand out and keep things exciting.
Feel free to explore these variations for your own goulash. Each option keeps the spirit of comfort while adding your personal touch. Check out the Full Recipe for more details.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Goulash
To store leftover goulash, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors fresh and tasty.
Reheating Tips for Leftovers
When you are ready to eat, reheat the goulash gently. You can use the microwave or a pot on the stove. If using a microwave, add a splash of water. This keeps the dish moist. Heat it until it’s warm all the way through. Stir it halfway to ensure even heating.
Freezing Instructions for Future Meals
Freezing goulash is easy and a great way to save it for later. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Try to remove as much air as possible. Label it with the date before placing it in the freezer. You can enjoy it later, up to three months later. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For best results, follow the [Full Recipe] steps when cooking again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in Crock Pot Goulash?
Yes, you can use other meats. Ground turkey or chicken work well. You could also use beef stew meat. Just cut it into small pieces. Cooking times may vary a bit, so check for doneness.
What can I serve with Crock Pot Goulash?
Crock Pot Goulash pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad adds freshness too. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with garlic bread.
How long can I keep goulash in the fridge?
Goulash lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. For best taste, eat it within this time frame.
Is it possible to make goulash without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make goulash on the stovetop. Just follow the same steps, but cook it in a pot. Use medium heat and stir often. The cooking time will be shorter, about 30 to 40 minutes.
How do I make the goulash creamy?
To make goulash creamy, add cream cheese or sour cream. Stir it in just before serving. This will give your dish a rich and smooth texture. You can also sprinkle in some cheese while cooking for extra creaminess. Try the Full Recipe for more tips!
Ingredients
To make the best Crock Pot goulash, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you should gather:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Each of these ingredients plays a role. Ground beef provides protein and richness. Onions and garlic add depth of flavor. Bell peppers bring sweetness and color. Tomatoes and broth create a hearty base. Elbow macaroni adds texture and makes it filling.
When choosing your ingredients, aim for quality. Fresh vegetables and good beef make a big difference. For the best taste, use low-sodium broth. This helps control the salt in your dish.
You can find the full recipe above to ensure you have everything you need. This dish is easy to adapt as well, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Crock Pot goulash combines simple ingredients and steps for a tasty dish. We discussed key ingredients and how to pick quality ones for the best flavor. I shared easy cooking tips, common mistakes to avoid, and fun variations. You can also store leftovers easily to enjoy later.
With this guide, you’re set to make the best goulash. Happy cooking!
. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the beef is brown and the onion is clear. This takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is extra fat, drain it. This step adds flavor and keeps your goulash rich. Next, transfer the beef mix to your crock pot. Add 1 diced bell pepper, 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice), 1 can of tomato sauce, and 2 cups of beef broth. These ingredients bring moisture and taste. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked elbow macaroni, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to coat the pasta with sauce. Cover the crock pot. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goulash is ready when the pasta is soft. Once cooked, stir gently. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to melt the cheese. Serve in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a bright touch. For a full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your hearty meal! To get pasta just right in your goulash, use elbow macaroni. It cooks well in the slow cooker. Add the uncooked pasta during the last hour of cooking. This way, it will soak up all the tasty flavors. Stir gently to coat every piece. Overcooking will make it mushy, so watch the time. While the basic recipe is great, you can add more flavor. Try adding a bay leaf for depth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce brings a nice umami taste. You can also throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can brighten up the dish. Just remember to balance the flavors and taste as you go. One big mistake is not browning the meat first. This step adds a lot of flavor. Also, don’t skip the broth. It keeps everything moist as it cooks. Avoid adding too much pasta at once, as it can soak up all the liquid. Finally, don’t rush the cooking time. Low and slow gives the best results. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_2}} You can make a tasty vegetarian version of goulash. Start by using plant-based ground meat or lentils. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. Add more veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for texture. This version still keeps the heartiness of the dish while being meat-free. You will enjoy the rich flavors and colors from the fresh produce. For a gluten-free goulash, switch to gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer elbow macaroni made from rice or corn. Ensure your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy a warm, comforting meal without the gluten. You will find that it still tastes delicious and filling. If you like heat, try adding chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also mix in diced jalapeños for a fresh kick. For a unique twist, drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish. Adjust the spice levels to your taste. This spicy version will make your goulash stand out and keep things exciting. Feel free to explore these variations for your own goulash. Each option keeps the spirit of comfort while adding your personal touch. Check out the Full Recipe for more details. To store leftover goulash, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure to seal it tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the flavors fresh and tasty. When you are ready to eat, reheat the goulash gently. You can use the microwave or a pot on the stove. If using a microwave, add a splash of water. This keeps the dish moist. Heat it until it's warm all the way through. Stir it halfway to ensure even heating. Freezing goulash is easy and a great way to save it for later. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, pack it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Try to remove as much air as possible. Label it with the date before placing it in the freezer. You can enjoy it later, up to three months later. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For best results, follow the [Full Recipe] steps when cooking again. Yes, you can use other meats. Ground turkey or chicken work well. You could also use beef stew meat. Just cut it into small pieces. Cooking times may vary a bit, so check for doneness. Crock Pot Goulash pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad adds freshness too. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with garlic bread. Goulash lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. For best taste, eat it within this time frame. Yes, you can make goulash on the stovetop. Just follow the same steps, but cook it in a pot. Use medium heat and stir often. The cooking time will be shorter, about 30 to 40 minutes. To make goulash creamy, add cream cheese or sour cream. Stir it in just before serving. This will give your dish a rich and smooth texture. You can also sprinkle in some cheese while cooking for extra creaminess. Try the Full Recipe for more tips! To make the best Crock Pot goulash, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you should gather: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color) - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) - 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce - 2 cups beef broth - 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked) - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Each of these ingredients plays a role. Ground beef provides protein and richness. Onions and garlic add depth of flavor. Bell peppers bring sweetness and color. Tomatoes and broth create a hearty base. Elbow macaroni adds texture and makes it filling. When choosing your ingredients, aim for quality. Fresh vegetables and good beef make a big difference. For the best taste, use low-sodium broth. This helps control the salt in your dish. You can find the full recipe above to ensure you have everything you need. This dish is easy to adapt as well, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Crock Pot goulash combines simple ingredients and steps for a tasty dish. We discussed key ingredients and how to pick quality ones for the best flavor. I shared easy cooking tips, common mistakes to avoid, and fun variations. You can also store leftovers easily to enjoy later. With this guide, you're set to make the best goulash. Happy cooking!](https://therecipehatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ecdd954d-4cb9-49b3-bd16-21bce123496f-300x300.webp)