Comforting Crock Pot Goulash

This Crock Pot American Goulash is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something hearty and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and a slow cooker doing most of the work, it’s a classic family favorite that’s been satisfying appetites for years.

I remember first making this during a chilly weekend when I was craving something easy yet filling. Now it’s on regular rotation because everyone in the family asks for it.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: the backbone of the dish, offering a satisfying protein base you can swap in Italian sausage or ground turkey if you prefer
• Sweet onion: adds a natural sweetness and depth choose firm unblemished bulbs for best flavor
• Green pepper: brings a subtle bite and freshness if bell peppers aren’t your favorite feel free to leave it out or substitute with mild poblano
• Garlic: fresh cloves give the sauce a bright and aromatic punch better than jarred for sure
• Pasta sauce: opt for a quality brand like Rao’s roast garlic for a rich taste but any favorite will work
• Tomato sauce: a mild base that balances the strong flavors low sodium is a good choice to control saltiness
• Petite diced tomatoes: if available with Italian seasoning they add extra herbs right in the can
• Water: to loosen the sauce and help everything cook evenly
• Italian seasoning: blends classic herbs for an authentic flavor profile
• Granulated sugar: just a touch to cut the acidity of the tomatoes without making it sweet
• Elbow macaroni: shapes that hold onto sauce well any similar pasta will do as long as you keep the quantity consistent

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics and Meat:

Cook the ground beef, diced onions, and chopped green pepper in a large skillet over medium heat. Break the meat apart as it browns. Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned and the onions and peppers have softened, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain excess grease to keep the dish from being oily. Using the sauté function on your slow cooker can make this step even easier.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:

Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your 4 to 6 quart crock pot. Add minced garlic, pasta sauce, tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, water, Italian seasoning, and granulated sugar. Stir gently to combine everything evenly but avoid adding the macaroni now as it will overcook if left too long.

Slow Cook the Flavors:

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 to 10 hours or high for 2 to 4 hours. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to marry beautifully and the sauce to thicken up slightly. Since the beef and veggies are pre cooked, the goal here is just melding flavors and warming everything through.

Add Pasta Late in the Cooking Process:

In the last hour of cooking, stir in the elbow macaroni and make sure it is submerged in the sauce. Cover again and continue cooking for about 60 minutes until the noodles are tender but not mushy. Stir once or twice during this time to prevent sticking.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the macaroni is perfectly cooked, your Crock Pot American Goulash is ready to eat. Ladle the hearty mixture into bowls and consider pairing it with fresh garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal.

I love using the Italian seasoned diced tomatoes because they add extra pop without extra effort. This recipe reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories while waiting on that perfect bowl of goulash.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within a few days. For longer storage, freeze the goulash in a freezer bag laid flat for efficient space. Because pasta tends to soak up liquids when frozen, it’s okay if the texture softens a little when reheated.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version. If you do not have green peppers, use chopped zucchini or skip it entirely. Swap elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape such as penne or rotini to vary texture. Use a homemade tomato sauce or marinara if store bought is not available.

Serving Suggestions

This goulash pairs wonderfully with a side salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon. Fresh garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are perfect for soaking up sauce. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella to the top for an extra cheesy finish.

This Crock Pot American Goulash is an easy comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It stores well and freezes nicely for make ahead dinners.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What distinguishes American goulash from Hungarian goulash?

American goulash features ground beef, macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce, resulting in a simpler, pasta-based dish. Hungarian goulash is a thick stew made with meat chunks and vegetables, seasoned heavily with Hungarian paprika.

→ Can other meats be used instead of ground beef?

Yes, Italian sausage, ground chicken, or ground turkey can be substituted to vary the flavor and suit preferences.

→ How should leftovers be stored for best quality?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on stovetop or microwave.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish on the stovetop or Instant Pot?

Yes, versions for both stovetop and Instant Pot cooking methods exist and provide quicker alternatives to slow cooking while maintaining rich flavor.

→ What is the best way to cook the macaroni noodles in this dish?

Add the macaroni noodles during the last hour of cooking in the slow cooker, stirring to combine, and cook until tender but not mushy for optimal texture.

→ Can bell peppers be omitted if disliked?

Yes, green bell peppers can be left out without significantly affecting the overall flavor balance.