Name: Slow Cooker Goulash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef; 1 large onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 3 cups beef broth; 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce; 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 bay leaves; 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker goulash recipe is a fuss-free, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy days. The slow cooker does most of the work, blending flavors together beautifully over time. It’s budget-friendly, makes great leftovers, and is a satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

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

ground beef
onion
garlic
beef broth
tomato sauce
diced tomatoes
soy sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Italian seasoning
bay leaves
uncooked elbow macaroni
cheddar cheese (optional)
salt
black pepper

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
Add beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked elbow macaroni. Re-cover and continue cooking until pasta is tender.
If using cheese, stir in or sprinkle it on top just before serving.
Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total time: 6.5–7.5 hours (low) or 3.5–4.5 hours (high)

Variations

Cheesy goulash: Stir in a cup of shredded cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Turkey version: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter dish.
Veggie boost: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Hungarian-style: Use paprika and stew beef chunks for a more traditional flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
You can freeze the goulash (preferably without the pasta) for up to 2 months. Cook fresh pasta when reheating for best texture.

FAQs

Can I add the pasta at the beginning?

No, it’s best to add pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid mushy results.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the beef and use plant-based meat or more vegetables and vegetable broth.

What type of pasta works best for goulash?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but small shells or rotini can work as well.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer everything in a large pot for about 30–40 minutes, adding pasta toward the end.

Should I brown the meat first?

Yes, browning adds flavor and removes excess fat. It’s highly recommended.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add spice with chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Can I use diced tomatoes with green chilies?

Yes, they add a nice kick and extra flavor.

What should I serve with goulash?

It’s great on its own or with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the extra volume.

Do I need to stir the goulash during cooking?

No, just give it a good stir when adding the pasta toward the end.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Goulash is the ultimate easy comfort food—rich, filling, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers delicious results with minimal effort. It’s a go-to recipe that satisfies every time.

Slow Cooker Goulash

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A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Goulash made with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This American-style version is slow-cooked to perfection, delivering big flavor with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Instructions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
Add beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Re-cover and cook until pasta is tender.
If using cheese, stir it in or sprinkle on top just before serving.
Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.

Notes

Add pasta only in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
For a cheesy version, mix in cheddar or mozzarella at the end.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
For a Hungarian twist, add paprika and use stew beef instead of ground beef.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/8 of recipe)
Calories: 430
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 65mg