1. Can I use a different type of meat for goulash?

Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute ground turkey, pork, or chicken . You can even use shredded beef or sausage for a different texture.

2. How long should I cook goulash in a slow cooker?

Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours . If you're in a hurry, the high setting works, but low and slow is best for deep flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

4. What’s the best way to thicken goulash?

If the goulash is too watery, you can: Simmer with the lid off for 10-15 minutes. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).

5. Can I prepare goulash ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients the night before , store them in the fridge, and dump everything into the slow cooker the next day.

6. Is American Goulash spicy?

No, traditional American Goulash is mild , but you can spice it up with red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce .

Best American Goulash Slow Cooker Recipe (Easy & Hearty)

Name: American Goulash (Slow Cooker)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484844H3M2S
Total time: PT-484844H3M2S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Description

This hearty and comforting American Goulash is a slow-cooked, one-pot meal packed with ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is easy to prepare and delivers a nostalgic, home-cooked flavor that the whole family will love. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a warm, satisfying meal with minimal effort!

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Brown the beef – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease and transfer to the slow cooker.
Sauté aromatics – In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add to the slow cooker.
Combine ingredients – Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Slow cook – Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Add pasta – Stir in the elbow macaroni during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cover and let the pasta cook until tender.
Serve – Spoon the goulash into bowls, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Notes

Pasta Alternative: If you prefer firmer pasta, cook the macaroni separately and stir it into the slow cooker just before serving.
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: ~350 kcal
Fat: ~12g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Protein: ~20g