The BEST Slow Cooker Goulash Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker goulash is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful one-pot meal made with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fuss-free dinner that the whole family will love. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the flavors meld beautifully over time for a truly satisfying dish.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlicbell peppers (red and green)crushed tomatoestomato saucebeef brothsoy sauceWorcestershire sauceItalian seasoningbay leavespaprikaelbow macaroni (or other small pasta)salt and pepper to tastecheddar cheese (optional, for serving)

directions

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

About 30 minutes before serving, remove the bay leaves and stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni.

Cover and cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)Final pasta cook time: 30 minutesTotal time: 6.5–8.5 hours

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots for extra veggies.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Top with sour cream or fresh parsley for added flavor.

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.Goulash also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I put raw ground beef in the slow cooker?

It’s best to brown the beef first for better flavor and texture, though it is technically safe to cook it raw in the slow cooker.

What pasta works best?

Elbow macaroni is classic, but rotini or small shells also work well.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth.

Is it okay to add the pasta earlier?

No, the pasta will become mushy. Add it only 30 minutes before serving.

Can I cook it on high the whole time?

Yes, cook on high for 3-4 hours total, adding the pasta in the last 30 minutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker and adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, cheese is optional and can be added at the end or omitted entirely.

What’s the difference between American goulash and Hungarian goulash?

American goulash uses ground beef and pasta in a tomato sauce, while Hungarian goulash is more of a stew with chunks of beef and paprika.

Conclusion

This BEST Slow Cooker Goulash Recipe is the ultimate cozy, family-friendly meal. It’s filling, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy days or relaxed weekends, this goulash is sure to become a go-to favorite in your home.

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