Name: Crockpot Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488351H3M57S
Total time: 5 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cups beef broth or water; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare with pantry staples
Cooks low and slow for deep, developed flavor
One-pot meal with meat, pasta, and sauce
Kid-approved and budget-friendly
Great for leftovers and freezer meals

Ingredients

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

Ground beef
Yellow onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Elbow macaroni (or similar short pasta)
Diced tomatoes (canned)
Tomato sauce
Beef broth or water
Worcestershire sauce
Italian seasoning
Bay leaves
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened. Drain excess grease.
Transfer to the crockpot, then add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
Add the uncooked pasta during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking. Stir well, cover again, and cook until pasta is tender.
Remove bay leaves, stir, and top with shredded cheese if using. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
Total time: About 5 hours

Variations

Add veggies: Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Make it cheesy: Mix shredded cheddar or mozzarella directly into the goulash before serving.
Use ground turkey: A leaner option that still tastes great.
Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and check labels on broth and sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, let the goulash cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I put the pasta in at the beginning?

It’s best to add pasta near the end to prevent it from overcooking and becoming mushy.

Do I have to brown the beef first?

Yes, browning adds flavor and removes excess grease, which improves the final dish.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any small to medium pasta like shells, penne, or rotini will work.

What’s the difference between American and Hungarian goulash?

American goulash is a tomato-based pasta dish with ground meat, while Hungarian goulash is a paprika-rich stew with chunks of beef and no pasta.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based ground meat or lentils and vegetable broth instead of beef.

How can I thicken the sauce?

If it’s too thin after cooking, let it sit uncovered for a few minutes or stir in a bit of tomato paste.

Is this spicy?

No, it’s mild and kid-friendly, but you can easily add spice if desired.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a large crockpot (6–7 quarts or larger) and add a bit more cook time if needed.

Should I stir the goulash during cooking?

It’s not necessary, but give it a good stir when adding the pasta to ensure even cooking.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce?

Yes, but reduce or adjust other liquids and seasonings accordingly to avoid over-salting.

Conclusion

Crockpot Goulash is a cozy, flavorful meal that’s both simple and satisfying. With tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and pasta all cooked in one pot, it’s a no-fuss dish that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want easy leftovers, this slow-cooked classic delivers comfort in every bite.