Name: Crockpot Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 2 cans (14.5 oz each) tomato sauce; 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes; 3 cups beef broth; 2 cups dry elbow macaroni; 1 cup frozen peas

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This Crockpot Goulash is everything I love in a comforting, hearty dish. It’s rich, filling, and incredibly easy to make. I just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker, walk away, and come back to a warm, flavorful meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day—because it has. Made with ground beef, tender vegetables, macaroni, and a savory tomato base, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with eager appetites.

Crockpot Goulash Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s completely fuss-free. Everything cooks together in the slow cooker, and the results are always delicious. It’s also versatile—perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. I often bring it to potlucks or gatherings, and there’s never a spoonful left behind. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Diced onion
Green bell pepper, diced
Red bell pepper, diced
Minced garlic
Salt
Pepper
Italian seasoning
Tomato sauce (14.5 oz cans)
Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz cans)
Beef broth
Dry uncooked macaroni
Frozen peas

Directions

I start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully browned.
Next, I add the diced onions and both bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until they’re tender.
Then I transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. I add in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
After giving everything a good stir, I cover the slow cooker and let it cook on high for 3.5 hours.
When there’s about an hour left, I cook the macaroni separately according to the package directions.
Thirty minutes before serving, I stir in the cooked pasta and frozen peas. I cover the crockpot again and let everything sit and warm through before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 servings, making it perfect for families or gatherings. It takes a total of 4 hours from start to finish, including 3.5 hours of cooking time and about 30 minutes of prep and finishing.

Variations

I love changing it up depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I add:

Black olives: A quarter cup adds a briny richness I enjoy in tomato-based dishes.
Mushrooms: I toss in about half a cup of sliced mushrooms for added earthiness.
Carrots: Diced carrots not only add a touch of sweetness but also boost the color and texture.
Different meats: I occasionally swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a new spin.
Different pasta shapes: While macaroni is my go-to, penne or rotini work just as well.

Storage/Reheating

After letting it cool completely, I store the goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When reheating, I usually microwave individual portions for 1 to 2 minutes until hot, or warm it gently on the stovetop.

For freezing, I portion cooled goulash into airtight containers—great for quick lunches. It keeps well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When I need a meal in a pinch, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it the next day.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best in goulash?

I typically use elbow macaroni because it cooks evenly and holds up well, but penne or rotini are great alternatives if I want a different texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. I just skip the meat and double up on vegetables or use a plant-based ground meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian option.

Should I cook the pasta separately?

Yes, I always cook the pasta separately and stir it in during the last 30 minutes. That way, it doesn’t overcook or become mushy in the slow cooker.

Can I cook this on low instead of high?

I can cook it on low for about 6 to 7 hours if I have more time. I just add the pasta and peas in the last hour as I would with the high setting.

What can I serve with this goulash?

I love serving this with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a simple green salad. It balances out the richness of the dish and rounds out the meal beautifully.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Goulash is my go-to when I want something warm, comforting, and simple. It feeds a crowd, stores well, and makes my kitchen smell amazing. Whether I’m feeding the family on a weeknight or prepping for a big get-together, this recipe always hits the spot. I keep it on repeat in my kitchen, and I’m sure once you try it, you will too.