Q. Can I make this ahead of time?

A. Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. Southern flavors settle and sing overnight. Heat gently when you rewarm and add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Q. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

A. Yes. Ground turkey will lighten the flavor. Brown it as you would beef and consider adding a touch more seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire to keep the depth.

Q. How do I keep the macaroni from getting mushy?

A. Add the uncooked pasta only 30 minutes before serving. If your slow cooker runs hot or you use large pasta, check a bit earlier. The goal is tender but slightly firm pasta.

Q. Can I freeze leftovers?

A. Yes. Cool fully, then freeze in meal-sized containers. Thaw overnight before reheating gently. Add broth as needed to refresh the sauce.

Q. What tools do I need?

A. A good crock pot that holds at least 4 to 6 quarts. A skillet for browning, a wooden spoon, and a good can opener. For serving, a ladle and bowls that keep heat will make the table feel right. These answers come from years of feeding family after family. I aim for clear, friendly help so you can cook with confidence and enjoy the warm reward.

Easy Mouthwatering Crock Pot Goulash Recipe 2026

Name: Crock Pot Goulash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 h
Total time: 7 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef; 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz diced tomatoes); 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping); 1 bell pepper (diced); 1 cup sliced mushrooms; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat); Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Description

A comforting Southern dish that brings warmth to family gatherings with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 medium onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz diced tomatoes)
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
1 bell pepper (diced)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic; drain fat.
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, and seasonings to the crock pot.
Cook on low for 6–7 hours.
Stir in macaroni 30 minutes before serving.
Top with cheese and parsley before serving.

Notes

Use real butter for best flavor. Choose high-quality tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Add more paprika for a smokier flavor. Fresh garlic is preferred over jarred varieties.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 420 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg