Slow Cooker Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that hails from the rich culinary traditions of Central Europe. I love preparing this recipe on busy weeknights when I crave something warm and wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. As the flavors meld in the slow cooker, the aroma fills your home, making it impossible not to feel cozy. It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that pleases the whole family—perfect for casual family dinners or weekend get-togethers!
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes this slow cooker goulash truly special is its simplicity and heartiness. It’s quick to throw together, often made with pantry staples, and surprisingly budget-friendly. The beauty of goulash lies in its versatility; you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it at a family brunch, satisfying the appetites of both kids and adults alike. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table.
“This slow cooker goulash is a life-saver for busy weeknights! My family gobbled it up, and I loved how easy it was to make!” – A happy home cook
Preparing Slow Cooker Goulash
Making this dish is a breeze! Start by browning your ground beef, which gives the goulash a lovely depth of flavor. Then, simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. From there, your meals come together seamlessly while you go about your day. The cooking time varies, so whether you need it ready in a couple of hours or you have it simmering for a longer stretch, you can’t go wrong. By the time you’re ready to serve, the pasta finishes cooking right in the pot for ultimate flavor integration.
What you’ll need
Before you dive into cooking, gather these key ingredients to make your slow cooker goulash a family favorite:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
- 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 2 cups tomato basil pasta sauce
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 15 oz can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon herb and garlic seasoning
- 6 oz pasta noodles
Feel free to customize this recipe with whatever you have on hand. For instance, you can substitute ground turkey for beef, or use different types of pasta based on your preference.
