Crock Pot Goulash: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Crock Pot Goulash
Crock Pot Goulash is a heartwarming dish that brings family and friends together around the table. This easy-to-make recipe combines ground beef, pasta, and a medley of savory ingredients, simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder goulash is a beloved comfort food for many. Whether you’re having a cozy dinner at home or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to delight everyone.
A Personal Story Behind My Crock Pot Goulash Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table to enjoy my grandmother’s famous goulash. It was her signature dish, and the aroma wafting through the house as it cooked was simply irresistible. Each bite brought back memories of laughter and love shared among family. Now, I love to recreate that same comforting feeling with my own version of Crock Pot Goulash. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth every time it’s made.
What Makes This Crock Pot Goulash Recipe Special?
What sets this goulash apart is its simplicity and the way it encapsulates the essence of home-cooked meals. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a hearty and filling dish. The addition of macaroni pasta and shredded cheddar cheese makes it a complete meal in itself. Plus, it’s versatile! You can modify the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary requirements, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it.
The Full Crock Pot Goulash Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 medium green pepper, chopped
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (24-ounce) jar pasta sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1½ tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1½ tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2½ cups uncooked macaroni pasta
- 1¾ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat before transferring the beef to a slow cooker. This helps keep your goulash from being too greasy.
- Add the chopped onion, green pepper, minced garlic, beef broth, paprika, pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined for maximum flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 2½ to 3½ hours. The longer cooking time on low will enhance the flavors even more.
- One hour before the cooking time is finished, add the uncooked macaroni pasta to the mixture and stir well. Cover and continue cooking for the remaining hour. This ensures the pasta cooks perfectly without becoming mushy.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. This adds a creamy texture that elevates the dish.
- Serve hot and enjoy your hearty Beefy Macaroni Delight!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crock Pot Goulash
Crock Pot Goulash is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a twist, try adding different vegetables like zucchini or corn. If you want to spice things up, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes. And if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the macaroni with whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Goulash
- Can I make this goulash in advance? Yes! This dish can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Just reheat it before serving.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! This goulash freezes well. Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- What can I use instead of ground beef? You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a healthier option.
Now you have a delicious and easy recipe to enjoy with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8 hours (low) or 3½ hours (high)
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 45 minutes (high)
- Calories per Serving: 400
- Servings: 6
Crock Pot Goulash
Equipment
- Slow Cooker Use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker for best results.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 medium green pepper, chopped
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 3 cups beef broth
- 24 oz pasta sauce
- 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1.5 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2.5 cups uncooked macaroni pasta
- 1.75 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat before transferring the beef to a slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, green pepper, minced garlic, beef broth, paprika, pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir everything together until well combined for maximum flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 2½ to 3½ hours. The longer cooking time on low will enhance the flavors even more.
- One hour before the cooking time is finished, add the uncooked macaroni pasta to the mixture and stir well. Cover and continue cooking for the remaining hour. This ensures the pasta cooks perfectly without becoming mushy.
- Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. This adds a creamy texture that elevates the dish.
- Serve hot and enjoy your hearty Beefy Macaroni Delight!