Hearty Crock Pot American Goulash for Cozy Family Dinners 🍲✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a comforting, flavorful dish that you can prep and forget? This American Goulash recipe is your answer! Known also as a Crock Pot Goulash or Slow Cooker Goulash, this easy goulash recipe combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and savory tomato sauce, slow-cooked to perfection. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a wholesome meal without a lot of fuss. The beauty of this easy goulash recipe is that it requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.

2. Ingredients Needed for This American Goulash Recipe

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 cup elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh basil, or sour cream

3. How to Make Classic American Goulash in a Slow Cooker

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and chop the onion. Mince the garlic for a rich flavor foundation.

Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Alternatively, you can skip stovetop cooking and add raw ground beef directly into the slow cooker, but pre-cooking improves flavor and texture.

Combine in the Crock Pot

Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and seasonings. Stir well to combine.

Cook and Add Pasta

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During the last 30 minutes, stir in the pasta and cook until tender. Alternatively, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.

4. Tips for the Perfect Goulash

• Adjust seasonings according to taste, adding extra paprika or oregano for more flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour or add a cornstarch slurry.
• Use healthy mashed carrots as a side for extra nutrition.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to loosen the sauce.

6. Serving Suggestions for Your Hearty American Goulash

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Top with shredded cheese, chopped basil, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. For a fun twist, check out some cheesy pull-apart bread to serve on the side.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this American Goulash gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta. Check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?

Yes, lean ground turkey or chicken works well and makes this Crock Pot Goulash lower in fat and calories.

How long does it take to prepare this slow cooker goulash?

The prep time is about 15 minutes, and it cooks for approximately 4-8 hours, depending on your preferred settings and batch size.

Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with lentils, plant-based crumbles, or additional vegetables.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Make chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you prep time for this hearty dish.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: The perfect tool to cook this American Goulash effortlessly while you go about your day.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even cooking when preparing your ground beef and vegetables.

9. Conclusion

This American Goulash recipe is a delicious, hearty meal that is easy to prepare in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners, it offers comforting flavors that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful, satisfying dish that keeps everyone coming back for more. Give this Easy Goulash Recipe a try and enjoy the cozy, hearty goodness in every bite!

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