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This Crock Pot American Goulash is the kind of meal that makes coming home after a long day feel cozy and satisfying. It blends familiar flavors in a simple way, letting the slow cooker do the heavy lifting so you can enjoy a hearty, comforting dinner without fuss. Family favorites often have a way of becoming tradition and this one has been a staple in my kitchen, especially on busy evenings when I want dinner ready with minimal effort.
I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something warm and low maintenance. Now it’s one of those meals my family requests regularly, especially in colder months when nothing else hits the spot like it does.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: the classic protein for this dish but you can also use Italian sausage or ground turkey for a twist
- Sweet onion: adds sweetness and depth when sautéed until soft
- Green pepper: gives a subtle freshness if you’re not a fan you can skip it or substitute with a bit of celery for crunch
- Fresh garlic: brings essential aromatics and flavor fresh is best but jarred works in a pinch
- Pasta sauce: pick your favorite jarred sauce, Rao’s roast garlic is great if you want to splurge or use a more affordable option for everyday meals
- Tomato sauce: low or no sodium options work well to control saltiness
- Petite diced tomatoes: the seasoned kind with basil, oregano, and garlic enhances the overall flavor
- Water: balances the sauces to create a perfect simmering sauce
- Italian seasoning: blends herbs for that Italian American classic flavor
- Granulated sugar: this small touch cuts the acidity from the tomatoes for a smoother sauce
- Elbow macaroni: classic pasta shape but any small pasta will do and it ensures a perfect bite every time
Instructions
- Brown and Sauté the Base:
- Cook the ground beef with diced onions and green pepper over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease for a cleaner flavor. If your slow cooker has a sauté option, you can use it to skip extra pans and keep cleanup easy.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the browned mixture to a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker. Add in the garlic, pasta sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, Italian seasoning, and sugar. Mix everything thoroughly but do not add the macaroni noodles yet. This slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Slow Cook the Goulash:
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 2 to 4 hours. Because everything except the pasta is already cooked, you are simply letting the sauce develop deeper flavors and the ingredients to marry.
- Add Macaroni and Finish Cooking:
- About one hour before you want to eat, stir in the macaroni noodles and cover again. The noodles will cook through during this final hour, absorbing just enough sauce to become tender without becoming mushy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle into warm bowls and serve with fresh garlic bread and a simple salad for a classic dinner experience loved by all ages.
This recipe is one of my all time favorites because the Italian seasoning really ties everything together, making it feel homemade yet effortless. One lovely memory I have is watching my kids excitedly dig into this after school, plates heaped high with warm goulash and a side of garlic bread, all tired but comforted by a meal that feels like a big family hug.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To freeze, place in a freezer safe bag or container and keep frozen up to three months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be aware that pasta softens with freezing so it’s best enjoyed fresh or reheated carefully.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground beef can be swapped with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage depending on your preference. If you dislike green peppers leave them out or substitute with chopped zucchini or mushrooms for added veggies. Use your favorite tomato based pasta sauces to adjust sweetness and spice to your family’s liking.
Serving Suggestions
This goulash pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, add a side of garlic bread or cheesy garlic rolls. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness.
This slow cooker goulash is an easy, comforting weeknight dinner that scales well for a crowd. Serve it with garlic bread for a nostalgic finish.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What ingredients are key to American Goulash?
Ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomato-based sauces, onions, green peppers, garlic, and Italian seasoning create the classic flavor profile.
- → How is this dish prepared in a slow cooker?
Brown beef with onions and peppers, then simmer with tomato sauces and seasonings in the cooker for several hours. Add macaroni near the end to finish cooking.
- → Can other proteins be used instead of ground beef?
Yes, Italian sausage, ground chicken, or ground turkey are interchangeable and alter the dish’s flavor for variety.
- → Why add the macaroni late in the cooking process?
Adding pasta near the end prevents it from overcooking and becoming mushy, ensuring it stays tender with good texture.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently in microwave or on stovetop.
- → What side dishes pair well with this dish?
Fresh garlic bread and a crisp green salad complement the hearty textures and balance the savory flavors.