If you’re in search of a cozy, comforting meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, Easy Crockpot Goulash is the perfect answer. This dish brings together tender beef, hearty macaroni, and rich tomatoes, simmering slowly in your crockpot to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a home-cooked meal with minimal effort. With a handful of simple ingredients, this goulash is sure to become a family favorite.

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The Inspiration Behind Crockpot Goulash

Goulash has long been a staple comfort food, originating in Hungary and evolving into different variations over the years. In this crockpot version, the flavors of ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta blend together perfectly as they cook low and slow, creating a rich, savory dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. The slow cooker takes the work out of this recipe, making it a go-to meal for any night of the week.

Why Easy Crockpot Goulash Will Be Your Go-To Dinner

• Minimal effort: Simply toss the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work—no need to stand over the stove.
• Rich and comforting: The combination of beef, tomatoes, and macaroni creates a hearty and comforting meal.
• Perfect for leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or reheating.
• Kid-friendly: With its mild flavors and simple ingredients, this goulash is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 23g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fiber: 4g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Easy Crockpot Goulash pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks:

• Classic garlic bread: Serve with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Simple salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the goulash.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts make for a healthy and delicious side.
• Drink pairings: Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Merlot or a cold beer like lager. For a non-alcoholic option, try iced tea or sparkling water.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Crockpot goulash stores and reheats beautifully:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This goulash freezes well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire batch in a large saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Fun Fact: The Evolution of Goulash

Traditional Hungarian goulash is a soup-like dish made with beef, paprika, and vegetables, but American versions, like this one, often include ground beef and pasta, creating a thicker, heartier meal. While both versions are comforting and delicious, this crockpot version takes the best of both worlds, combining rich flavors with the ease of a one-pot meal.

Cooking Tips

• Sauté the beef first: For extra flavor, brown the ground beef and onions in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This step adds depth to the dish but can be skipped for convenience.
• Cook the pasta separately: While it’s possible to cook the pasta directly in the crockpot, cooking it separately and stirring it in at the end ensures that it doesn’t become too soft.
• Use bone broth: For an added boost of flavor and nutrition, use bone broth instead of regular chicken or beef broth.

Optional Variations

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in extra shredded cheese or top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
• Vegetable boost: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Drink Pairings

• Alcoholic: Pair with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or a light beer like a pilsner to complement the hearty flavors of the goulash.
• Non-Alcoholic: Enjoy with iced tea, lemonade, or a simple glass of sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.

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Easy Crockpot Goulash Recipe

Ingredients:

• 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 or beef broth)
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1 15-ounce can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (2 cups, cooked separately or directly in crockpot, see notes below)

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef and sauté the veggies (optional): In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and garlic, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
2. Add to crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture to the crockpot. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, bone broth, crushed tomatoes, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
4. Add the macaroni: About 20 minutes before serving, cook the macaroni according to package directions if cooking separately. Stir the cooked macaroni into the crockpot and mix well.
5. • To cook directly in the crockpot: Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Add cheese and serve: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese just before serving, allowing it to melt into the goulash. Serve hot, with optional garnishes like fresh parsley or extra cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Crockpot Goulash is the perfect comfort food for busy nights, delivering rich, savory flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, while the tender pasta and melty cheese take this dish to the next level. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this goulash is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.