Goulash is a traditional dish that has warmed the hearts and homes of families for generations. Originating from Hungary, this comforting meal has traveled the world and evolved into various delicious interpretations. The Crockpot Goulash version is a convenient and flavorful take on this classic dish, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Combining ground beef, vegetables, tomatoes, pasta, and a blend of seasonings, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious Crockpot Goulash step-by-step.
Ingredients
To prepare this delightful Crockpot Goulash, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef: Provides the hearty base for the goulash.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped (or other colored peppers): Contributes a slight crunch and fresh taste.
- 1 (14oz) can diced tomatoes with juice: Adds tanginess and moisture.
- 1 (10oz) can tomato soup (or tomato sauce): Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 (24oz) jar pasta sauce: Adds rich, savory flavor.
- 10 oz beef broth: Deepens the overall taste and adds moisture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: For seasoning.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of spice.
- 1 TBS Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and a slight tang.
- 12 oz uncooked elbow macaroni pasta: Traditional pasta choice that absorbs the flavors well.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight sharpness.
Equipment
To make this recipe, you will need:
- 6 quart crockpot: Ideal for slow cooking the goulash.
- Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables.
Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning the beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
2. Add Vegetables
Once the ground beef is browned, add the chopped onion and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. The onions will add sweetness and the peppers will add a fresh crunch to the dish.
3. Transfer to Crockpot
Turn off the heat and drain any excess fat from the skillet. Transfer the cooked ground beef, onions, and peppers to the bottom of the crockpot. This forms the hearty base of your goulash.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Next, add the diced tomatoes with their juice, the jar of pasta sauce, the tomato soup (or tomato sauce), and the beef broth to the crockpot. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything until well combined. These ingredients will simmer together to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
5. Slow Cook
Place the lid on the crockpot and set it to slow cook for 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Add Pasta
After the initial cooking time, remove the lid and add the uncooked elbow macaroni pasta. Stir until the pasta is submerged in the liquid. This step ensures that the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
7. Continue Cooking
Place the lid back on the crockpot and continue cooking for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
8. Add Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt into the goulash, adding a creamy and slightly sharp flavor. Stir until the cheese is fully incorporated.
9. Serve
Your Crockpot Goulash is now ready to be served. Spoon the goulash into bowls and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of this hearty dish. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ground beef and fresh vegetables will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different twist.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Add more Italian seasoning for a herbier flavor or more Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.
- Cooking Time: Be mindful of the cooking time for the pasta. Overcooking can result in mushy pasta, so check for doneness around the 45-minute mark.
Variations
- Different Meats: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Goulash is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the goulash with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Over Rice: For a twist, serve the goulash over a bed of rice.
- With a Salad: Pair the goulash with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Crockpot Goulash is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, while its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it suitable for family gatherings and potlucks. By following these detailed steps and tips, you can create a delicious and memorable meal that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the process of making this delightful Crockpot Goulash. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Crockpot Goulash: A Comforting One-Pot Meal
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Crockpot Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef: Provides the hearty base for the goulash.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped (or other colored peppers): Contributes a slight crunch and fresh taste.
- 1 (14oz) can diced tomatoes with juice: Adds tanginess and moisture.
- 1 (10oz) can tomato soup (or tomato sauce): Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 (24oz) jar pasta sauce: Adds rich, savory flavor.
- 10 oz beef broth: Deepens the overall taste and adds moisture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: For seasoning.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of spice.
- 1 TBS Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor.
- 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and a slight tang.
- 12 oz uncooked elbow macaroni pasta: Traditional pasta choice that absorbs the flavors well.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight sharpness.
Equipment
To make this recipe, you will need:
- 6 quart crockpot: Ideal for slow cooking the goulash.
- Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables.
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium high heat brown up ground beef until no longer pink. Add in chopped onion and chopped bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 additional minutes. Turn off heat and place drained, cooked ground beef, onions, and peppers into bottom of crockpot.
- Add in diced tomatoes with juice, jar pasta sauce, tomato soup, broth, Worcester Sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
- Place lid on crockpot and let slow cook for 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low. Remove lid and add uncooked pasta. Stir until pasta is under the liquid. Place lid on and cook an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour until pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Remove lid and stir in 1 cup shredded cheese. Enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg