Crockpot goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the flavors of classic American and Hungarian cuisine. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep time and can be left to simmer in your slow cooker while you go about your day. With its rich, savory flavors and satisfying ingredients, crockpot goulash is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
To make a delicious crockpot goulash, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the meat to the crockpot.
- Add Vegetables: To the crockpot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced green bell pepper. Stir to combine with the ground beef.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Macaroni: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Make sure it’s submerged in the liquid, cover, and continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, give the goulash a good stir. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Crockpot goulash is the epitome of comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a dish that warms both the body and soul. Its versatility means you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste, adding in your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this slow-cooked meal is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness that comes from the crockpot!
