Discover the rich and hearty flavors of Slow Cooker Beef Goulash, a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. With the addition of elbow pasta and sharp cheddar cheese, this goulash is sure to become a family favorite. Follow this detailed guide to create a delicious meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make Slow Cooker Beef Goulash:
- 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 sizable onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Three 15-ounce cans of tomato sauce
- Two 14 ½-ounce cans of diced tomatoes, along with their natural juices
- 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons of kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of Italian seasonings
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 cups of elbow pasta
- 2 cups of finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Slow Cooker Beef Goulash:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine.
- Season: Add the Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, Italian seasonings, and bay leaves. Stir everything together.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Pasta: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, cook the elbow pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, stirring well to combine.
- Cheese It Up: Just before serving, sprinkle the finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the goulash and let it melt. Stir to distribute the cheesy goodness throughout the dish.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaves and serve the goulash hot. Enjoy the comforting and hearty flavors of this delicious meal.
Cook’s Notes
- Ground Beef: For a leaner version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Tomato Sauce: You can use a mix of tomato sauce and tomato paste for a richer tomato flavor.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Variations
Explore different ways to customize your Slow Cooker Beef Goulash:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or use a mix of beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mexican Goulash: Add a can of black beans, a can of corn, and replace the Italian seasonings with taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired version.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly option, omit the elbow pasta and replace it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Ensure all other ingredients, especially the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, are low in carbs and free from added sugars.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs, replace the elbow pasta with a lower-carb alternative like shirataki noodles or use a smaller amount of whole wheat pasta. You can also add more vegetables to the dish to bulk it up without adding too many carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and add it to the slow cooker when it’s al dente.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Beef Goulash? A: Yes, you can freeze Beef Goulash. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with Beef Goulash? A: Serve with a side of crusty bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Slow Cooker Beef Goulash is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, tender beef, and cheesy pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s a great addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy the hearty goodness of this classic dish and savor every bite with your loved ones.
