Slow Cooker Beef Goulash: A Heartwarming Comfort Food Delight

As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to bring comfort and joy. Utilizing the magic of slow cookers, you can craft delightful comfort food dishes that embrace your taste buds and warm your soul. This slow cooker beef goulash is the epitome of such comfort—a rich combination of meatiness, cheesiness, and tomato-based sauciness, all lovingly intertwined with pasta.

Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or gathering with family for a cozy dinner, this goulash recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. In just 15 minutes, you can prep everything and let your slow cooker do the rest. Once it’s done, you’ll finish off the dish with a layer of melted cheese, creating a comforting masterpiece that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: The prep time is minimal, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices, cheese, and hearty ingredients creates a flavor profile that’s deeply satisfying.
• Versatile: Customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be made in advance and reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of ground beef
• 1 sizable onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Three 15-ounce cans of tomato sauce
• Two 14 ½-ounce cans of diced tomatoes, with their natural juices
• 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons of kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 cups of elbow pasta
• 2 cups of finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

2. Transfer the browned beef into the slow cooker pot. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Slow Cook

3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. You can choose to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, depending on your schedule.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

4. About 15 minutes before serving, cook the elbow pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

5. Once the slow cooking is complete, remove the bay leaves and stir in the freshly cooked pasta. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the warm goulash. Serve while hot, and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Goulash

• Thinner Sauce: If you prefer a thinner sauce, reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water and incorporate it into the slow cooker until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Meat Variations: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based protein and add extra veggies.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the goulash a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with goulash?

Goulash pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Certainly! While elbow pasta is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Conclusion

This slow cooker beef goulash is a testament to the beauty of comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a dish that is rich, hearty, and utterly satisfying. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a warm hug in a bowl, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Gather your loved ones, serve this delightful dish, and savor every delicious bite!