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Slow Cooker Goulash

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This slow cooker goulash is a hearty, cheesy comfort food made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato broth. It’s an easy family-friendly meal with minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 14.5 ounces canned petite diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 4 cups beef or chicken broth
  • 15 ounces uncooked rotini pasta (about 5 cups) or other small pasta (macaroni, bowties, penne)
  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Transfer the browned beef mixture to the slow cooker.
  3. Add the salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, marjoram, basil, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and broth. Stir well, mashing the tomato paste into the liquid until combined.
  4. Cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 5–6 hours.
  5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the uncooked pasta. If cooking on high, switch the slow cooker to low. Cover and cook until the pasta is tender.
  6. Turn off the heat, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cover for 5–10 minutes until melted, then stir and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use beef broth for a richer flavor or chicken broth for a lighter version.
  • Any small pasta such as macaroni, bowties, or penne works well.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.

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