Dinner

Slow Cooker Goulash Recipe

ByElena Hart October 21, 2025October 21, 2025

Introduction

Slow Cooker Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying meal without the fuss. This rich and flavorful recipe combines tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and tender pasta, all slow-cooked to perfection.

A white plate holds a single-layer heap of macaroni mixed with cooked ground beef and tomato sauce, showing bits of green bell pepper and small pieces of onion scattered throughout. The macaroni is pale yellow with a soft texture, while the beef is dark brown and finely crumbled. The tomato sauce, rich red with a slightly chunky texture, coats the ingredients unevenly. Small green parsley leaves are placed on top as garnish, adding a fresh touch of color. The dish is on a surface with a white marbled texture, and a black fork is partially visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced

2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic
1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced

2 cups tomato basil pasta sauce
8 oz tomato sauce

15 oz diced tomatoes
1 cup water
1 teaspoon herb and garlic seasoning

6 oz pasta noodles

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, tomato basil pasta sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, and herb and garlic seasoning. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-6 hours. You can let it simmer on low for up to 8 hours if needed.
Step 4: About 30-45 minutes before serving, turn the slow cooker to high and add the pasta noodles. Stir gently and cook until the pasta is tender. Plan to serve immediately to avoid the pasta becoming too soft.

Tips & Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.

For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika when stirring in the sauces.
Include chopped mushrooms or zucchini for additional vegetables.
If you prefer thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water slightly or stir in a small amount of tomato paste.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the goulash seems too thick. Avoid reheating pasta multiple times to prevent it from becoming mushy.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a black slow cooker filled with a cooked dish made of elbow macaroni pasta, ground meat, diced tomatoes, and small pieces of green bell pepper, all mixed together in a rich red sauce. The pasta is pale yellow and soft, the ground meat is brown and crumbly, the tomato chunks are bright red, and the bell peppers add green bits throughout. The slow cooker sits on a white marbled surface, and the control knob and buttons are visible on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this goulash?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for the ground beef depending on your preference.

Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?

Absolutely. You can make this goulash on the stovetop by simmering all the ingredients (except the pasta) in a large pot over medium heat for about 30 minutes, then adding the pasta and cooking until tender.