Slow cooker goulash is a comforting, hearty dish with origins in Hungary, where it was a staple for shepherds. Over the years, it has become a family favorite in many homes. This version, prepared in a slow cooker, offers all the flavors of classic goulash but with less effort. The slow simmering of ingredients ensures that each bite is rich and delicious, making it a go-to for busy days when you need something warm and filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple preparation with easy ingredients
- A rich and hearty meal perfect for family dinners
- Cooked in the slow cooker, making it a hands-off recipe
- Can be customized with vegetables or pasta alternatives
- Leftovers freeze well, so you can enjoy it later
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Ground beef: Use lean ground beef, around 80/20 for the right balance of flavor and texture.
- Onions and Red Bell Pepper: These add depth and sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic: For an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper: To enhance the flavor.
- Bone Broth or Chicken Broth: Adds richness and helps simmer the ingredients.
- Canned Crushed Tomatoes and Petite Diced Tomatoes: The base of the sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta choice, but can be swapped for other short pasta.
How to Make Slow Cooker Goulash:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, then transfer to your slow cooker.
- Add ingredients: Add chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, seasonings, broth, and tomatoes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Add pasta: In the last 45 minutes of cooking, add cooked macaroni or stir uncooked pasta into the goulash, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar just before serving.
Cooking Tips:
- Brown the beef ahead: Browning it the night before saves time in the morning.
- Separate pasta cooking: For best texture, cook the pasta separately and mix it into the goulash before serving.
- Extend cooking time: If you need more time, the goulash can cook on LOW for up to 8 hours.
Helpful Tips:
- For more flavor, add smoked paprika for a hint of Hungarian tradition.
- If storing for later, keep the pasta separate to avoid sogginess.
- You can add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition.
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Family-friendly
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 357 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 11g
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze goulash? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Can I use another type of meat? Ground turkey or chicken work well as alternatives.
- How can I make this vegetarian? Substitute the meat with plant-based ground alternatives.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a saucepan, adding freshly cooked pasta if needed.
Related Recipes:
Conclusion:
Slow cooker goulash is the perfect weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated as leftovers, it never fails to satisfy your cravings for something rich and flavorful.
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Slow Cooker Goulash
Description
Slow cooker goulash is a comforting, hearty dish with origins in Hungary, where it was a staple for shepherds. Over the years, it has become a family favorite in many homes. This version, prepared in a slow cooker, offers all the flavors of classic goulash but with less effort. The slow simmering of ingredients ensures that each bite is rich and delicious, making it a go-to for busy days when you need something warm and filling.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Use lean ground beef, around 80/20 for the right balance of flavor and texture.
- Onions and Red Bell Pepper: These add depth and sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic: For an extra layer of savory flavor.
- Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper: To enhance the flavor.
- Bone Broth or Chicken Broth: Adds richness and helps simmer the ingredients.
- Canned Crushed Tomatoes and Petite Diced Tomatoes: The base of the sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta choice, but can be swapped for other short past
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, then transfer to your slow cooker.
- Add ingredients: Add chopped onion, bell pepper, garlic, seasonings, broth, and tomatoes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or on HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Add pasta: In the last 45 minutes of cooking, add cooked macaroni or stir uncooked pasta into the goulash, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar just before serving.
Notes
- Calories: 357 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 11g
