Luscious Crockpot Goulash: Hearty Comfort in 5 Minutes

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Packed with fresh flavors
• Customizable ingredients
• Perfect for healthy meals

Intro and Brief Recap

What if you could create a warm, hearty meal with minimal effort that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas? Luscious Crockpot Goulash is the answer to your culinary dreams. This dish combines tender beef, rich tomatoes, and comforting pasta into a symphony of flavors that will make everyone at the table smile. Picture a cozy evening where you walk in from the cold to discover a meal that’s been simmering all day, waiting just for you.

Growing up, my family often gathered around the table for goulash on chilly nights. The savory aroma wafting through the house always made me feel warm inside. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to treat your loved ones to something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. With its blend of spices and hearty ingredients, Luscious Crockpot Goulash promises an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Key Ingredients For Luscious Crockpot Goulash

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a flavorful base that won’t leave the dish greasy.

• Onion: A chopped yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the goulash.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of this dish.

• Tomato Sauce: Use canned tomato sauce for a rich, tangy foundation.

• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add texture and freshness to the goulash.

• Beef Broth: A good quality beef broth enriches the sauce and infuses flavor.

• Pasta: Elbow macaroni or egg noodles work well; they soak up the goulash’s flavors beautifully.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs brings out the best in each ingredient.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Luscious Crockpot Goulash

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown one pound of ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat before transferring it to your crockpot.

Second Step: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté until softened and fragrant, approximately five minutes.

Third Step: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked beef, sautéed onion and garlic back into the crockpot. Pour in one can of tomato sauce, one can of diced tomatoes (with juice), and one cup of beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Fourth Step: Add Pasta

Stir in two cups of uncooked elbow macaroni or egg noodles along with two teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly so that every ingredient is evenly distributed.

Fifth Step: Set Cooking Time

Cover your crockpot with a lid and set it on low heat. Cook for about four to six hours until pasta is tender and flavors meld beautifully.

To serve, gently stir before ladling into bowls. Garnish with grated cheese or fresh parsley if desired for an extra touch!

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Lean Meat: Opting for lean ground beef will help keep your goulash from becoming greasy.

• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and texture.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; you can add more Italian seasoning according to your preference.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare your Luscious Crockpot Goulash, start by browning ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. This step enhances the flavor of your dish. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.

Next, chop one onion and two bell peppers, adding them to the crockpot along with minced garlic. The aromatics will create a fragrant base for your goulash. Pour in a can of diced tomatoes, a can of tomato sauce, and add beef broth for added depth. Stir in paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

Now, cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in cooked elbow macaroni and let it absorb the flavors.

Serve hot with freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finish.

Serving Suggestions

This Luscious Crockpot Goulash is ideal for cozy family dinners and gatherings. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Strongly pair it with crusty bread for dipping.

• Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad to balance the richness.

• Top servings with shredded cheese for extra creaminess.

Storage Tips

To store your Luscious Crockpot Goulash properly, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, where it will last for up to three months.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Luscious Crockpot Goulash provides a hearty meal filled with protein and fiber. Each serving typically contains around 350 calories, depending on specific ingredients used like lean beef or added vegetables.

This dish is rich in vitamins from bell peppers and has a good balance of carbohydrates from elbow macaroni. Adjust the ingredients as needed to fit dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

What can I substitute for ground beef in Luscious Crockpot Goulash?

If you prefer a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken in your Luscious Crockpot Goulash recipe. These alternatives provide similar textures while reducing fat content. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes that mimic the texture of ground beef.

Can I make Luscious Crockpot Goulash ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making Luscious Crockpot Goulash ahead of time enhances its flavor as it allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully. Prepare it up to two days prior and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

How do I make my Luscious Crockpot Goulash gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores. Additionally, ensure that your canned goods such as tomato sauce are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Can I use frozen vegetables in Luscious Crockpot Goulash?

Yes! Frozen vegetables work well when making Luscious Crockpot Goulash as they retain their nutrients and flavors during freezing. Just add them directly into the crockpot; they will cook down beautifully alongside other ingredients throughout the cooking process.