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Delicious Crockpot Goulash with pasta, meat, and vegetables in a slow cooker

Crockpot Goulash

This comforting Crockpot Goulash combines ground beef, pasta, and a thick tomato sauce for a cozy family meal. It's easy to make and perfect for meal prep!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Meat and Vegetables
  • 2 lbs ground beef Browned until no pink remains
  • ½ onion diced onion
  • 1 each green bell pepper, diced Dice evenly for even cooking
  • 1 each red bell pepper, diced Dice evenly for even cooking
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic Fresh garlic = bigger flavor
Spices and Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt Use low-sodium broth to control salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Canned Goods
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) tomato sauce
  • 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option
Pasta and Additional Ingredients
  • 1 box dry macaroni (uncooked) Cook separately to avoid mushy pasta
  • 1 cup frozen peas Add them 30 minutes before serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium and add the ground beef, cooking until browned and no pink remains.
  2. Drain excess fat from the beef, leaving a bit for flavor.
  3. Add diced onion, green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Cooking
  1. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a 6-quart slow cooker.
  2. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth until combined.
  3. Cover and cook on High for 3.5 hours or on Low for 6-7 hours.
  4. About 1 hour before serving, boil the macaroni according to package directions and drain it.
  5. Thirty minutes before serving, fold the cooked macaroni and frozen peas into the crockpot. Cover to let them warm through.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then garnish with fresh herbs or shredded cheese just before serving.

Notes

For a soupier meal, pair with garlic butter toast, or feel free to add a sprinkle of parmesan. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently.