Crockpot Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Packed with flavorful ingredients and cooked low and slow in a crockpot, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious meal step by step.
Ingredients
To prepare Crockpot Goulash, you’ll need:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp. Minced garlic
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. pepper
- 2 tsp. Italian Seasoning
- 2 cans tomato sauce (14.5 oz each)
- 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 box dry uncooked macaroni
- 1 cup frozen peas
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Browning the Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until it is browned.
- Adding Vegetables and Seasoning:
- Add the onions, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Combining Ingredients in the Crockpot:
- Transfer the cooked meat and vegetable mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add Italian Seasoning, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cooking Time:
- Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3.5 hours.
- Adding Pasta and Peas:
- About 1 hour before serving, cook the dry macaroni according to the package instructions.
- 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cooked pasta and frozen peas.
- Cover and let the goulash sit until ready to serve.
Tips for Making the Perfect Crockpot Goulash
- For added flavor, you can brown the ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic before adding it to the crockpot.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more or less salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as desired.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your crockpot, so check for doneness accordingly.
- Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving and Garnishing Suggestions
Crockpot Goulash is delicious when served hot and garnished with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Crockpot Goulash is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying meal ready to enjoy with family and friends. Give this recipe a try and see why it’s a classic favorite!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Can I freeze leftover Crockpot Goulash?
- Yes, leftover goulash can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
- You can add mushrooms, carrots, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Can I cook this recipe on low heat instead of high?
- Yes, you can cook the goulash on low heat for 7-8 hours instead of high heat for 3.5 hours.
- Is this recipe spicy?
- The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on personal preference. If you like it spicy, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
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