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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.

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)

Instructions

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

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/slow-cooker-goulash/