When juggling a busy schedule, quick and satisfying meals are essential. This Slow Cooker Goulash is a lifesaver for those chaotic days. Toss it all in, set the timer, and return home to a comforting and hearty dish.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep work: Quick browning and chopping are all that’s needed.
• One-pot meal: Fewer dishes, more relaxation.
• Flexible cooking time: Adaptable to your schedule, with no need for constant attention.
• Kid-friendly: Familiar flavors that appeal to all ages.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty base. Ground turkey can be used for a lighter option.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic: Convenient and aromatic. One clove of fresh garlic can substitute.
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced: Offers a mild, sweet crunch.
• 2 cups tomato basil pasta sauce: Brings a rich, herbaceous tomato flavor. Regular marinara can be used if needed.
• 8 oz tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato base, adding smoothness.
• 15 oz diced tomatoes: Complements the sauces with a fresh, chunky texture.
• 1 cup water: Ensures enough liquid to cook the pasta.
• 1 teaspoon herb and garlic seasoning: Amplifies flavors with a ready-made blend. Substitute with Italian seasoning if unavailable.
• 6 oz pasta noodles: Choose a shape like elbow macaroni for traditional goulash texture.

How to Make It

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains. This step develops deeper flavor and keeps the goulash from becoming greasy. Once cooked, drain excess fat and transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, pasta sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, and herb seasoning to the slow cooker with the beef. Stir well to blend everything evenly, allowing the flavors to mix and mingle during cooking.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Set your slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This slow simmering process tenderizes the beef and melds the ingredients into a unified, savory stew.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

About 30-45 minutes before serving, turn the slow cooker to high and stir in the pasta. Monitor closely to achieve perfectly al dente noodles without overcooking, as they can become mushy if left too long.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While elbow macaroni is traditional, any similarly sized pasta like shells or rotini will work well, ensuring it can fit and cook evenly in the slow cooker.

Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes, the goulash can be fully cooked without the pasta and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Warm it in the slow cooker, then add pasta 30 minutes before serving.

Is this meal freezer-friendly?

For best results, freeze the goulash sauce without pasta. Defrost and heat, adding fresh pasta towards the end to avoid mushy texture.