Pin it
This Slow Cooker American Goulash is a comforting and easy meal that brings together classic flavors in a simple one pot dish. Ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and elbow macaroni simmer together in a rich tomato sauce resulting in a filling dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. You can also make this in an Instant Pot, which speeds up the process while keeping the flavors intact.
I first made this recipe when I was craving a filling meal after a long day and it quickly became a family favorite. Now, it’s a go to dish when I want something effortless but full of flavor.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: one pound seasoned with salt and pepper for depth of flavor and protein
- Elbow macaroni: eight ounces uncooked pasta that holds sauce well and cooks right in the pot
- Onion: one third cup diced to add sweetness and aromatic base
- Bell pepper: one medium diced for color and subtle crunch
- Garlic: two cloves minced for savory aroma and richness
- Crushed tomatoes: twenty eight ounces provide a chunky, rich tomato base
- Tomato sauce: fifteen ounces smooth tomato flavor to balance the sauce texture
- Beef broth: one and one half cups adds savory liquid to cook pasta and enrich flavor
- Soy sauce or coconut aminos: one tablespoon adds umami complexity soy sauce is traditional
- Italian seasoning: one tablespoon a fragrant blend that lifts the tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper: add layers of seasoning to taste
- Oil: one tablespoon for browning the beef and vegetables
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics and Beef:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add ground beef, diced bell pepper, onions, and minced garlic. Cook until beef is browned and no longer pink about three to five minutes. Crumble the beef with a spatula as it cooks. This develops flavor and ensures even cooking. Drain excess grease then transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir carefully to combine all ingredients evenly creating a rich flavorful sauce.
- Cook and Add Pasta:
- Set slow cooker to high for three to four hours or low for six to eight hours allowing flavors to meld. In the last thirty minutes stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni so it cooks directly in the sauce absorbing all those flavors.
- Final Stir and Serve:
- After the cooking is done stir the goulash well to fully incorporate the pasta and sauce. Serve hot straight from the slow cooker for a hearty comforting meal.
Pin it
My favorite ingredient is the Italian seasoning because it brings warmth and herbaceous notes that brighten the tomato sauce so perfectly. I remember making this for a family reunion where everyone kept going back for seconds because the flavors felt both nostalgic and comforting.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This goulash also freezes well so portion it into freezer safe containers for a quick meal anytime. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner version though beef broth will help maintain richer flavor. Use gluten free pasta if needed but cook time may vary. For soy sauce, tamari or coconut aminos are great to keep that umami punch without gluten.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this goulash with a side of simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well rounded dinner. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley adds brightness on top right before serving.
Cultural Context
American goulash is a comfort food classic distinct from Hungarian goulash with its use of macaroni and a tomato based sauce. It originated as an economical and straightforward dish for families seeking filling meals with accessible ingredients.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef is best for this dish?
Ground beef with a moderate fat content, such as 80/20, works best to keep the dish juicy without excess grease.
- → Can I use different pasta types?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but small pasta shapes like penne or rotini will also hold the sauce well.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Adding uncooked pasta during the last part of cooking lets it soften without overcooking, preserving a pleasant texture.
- → Is it important to brown the beef first?
Browning enhances flavor by developing rich caramelized notes before slow cooking with tomatoes and broth.
- → Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?
Yes, sautéing ingredients then pressure cooking allows a quicker version while maintaining similar depth and texture.