Introduction
Slow Cooker Beef Goulash is a classic comfort dish made with tender ground beef, macaroni pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s warm, filling, and incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
1 can (400g) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and seasonings.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked macaroni.
Let it cook until pasta is tender.
Optional: sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
How to Make
Start by browning the beef to build flavor—this step is essential.
Combine all ingredients except pasta in the slow cooker and allow them to slowly develop a rich, deep taste.
Add the macaroni toward the end so it doesn’t overcook.
Stir occasionally if possible, and adjust seasoning before serving.
Variations
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or hot sauce.
Swap macaroni with other pasta shapes like shells or penne.
Add cream or cheese for a richer, creamy version.
Tips
Brown the beef well to enhance flavor.
Avoid adding pasta too early—it can become mushy.
Adjust liquid if needed; pasta absorbs a lot of moisture.
Taste before serving and adjust salt and spices.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Calories: حوالي 350–450 per serving
Protein: 20–25g
Carbohydrates: 35–45g
Fat: 15–20g
Fiber: 3–5g
Healthy Benefits
Provides a good source of protein for muscle building.
Contains carbohydrates for energy.
Tomatoes offer antioxidants like lycopene.
Can be made healthier by using lean meat and adding vegetables.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners and easy enough for anyone to make, even on the busiest days.
