Description

This Slow Cooker Southern Style Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish packed with bold flavors, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal, ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying dinner without much effort. With a rich tomato-based sauce, aromatic spices, and optional cheesy topping, this goulash is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Preparation Method

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat and drain excess grease.
2. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a slow cooker.
4. Add beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker and stir well.
5. Set the slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, add uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker and stir well.
7. Cook until the macaroni is tender, approximately 30 minutes.
8. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Make It Your Own: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.

Cheese Variations: Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different cheesy flavor.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the pasta has absorbed too much sauce.

Freezer-Friendly: Freeze the goulash (without the pasta) in portions for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw, reheat, and cook fresh pasta to mix in.

Slow Cooker Southern Style Goulash is the perfect combination of simplicity and bold flavors. Whether served with a side of garlic bread or enjoyed on its own, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Give it a try and discover why it’s a staple in Southern kitchens! Don’t forget to check out more slow cooker recipes for your next meal inspiration.