Crockpot Goulash with Uncooked Macaroni (Slow Cooker Recipe)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker goulash is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a rich and savory dish, featuring a savory beef and tomato base with macaroni that soaks up all the flavors as it cooks. You get a warm, filling meal with minimal prep and cleanup. Plus, the use of uncooked macaroni in the crockpot makes this recipe incredibly convenient. No need to boil pasta separately—everything cooks together in one pot!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Transfer the beef mixture into the crockpot.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and soy sauce.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours.
6. After 4 hours, stir in the uncooked macaroni. Cover and cook for an additional 30–40 minutes until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.
7. Stir everything together before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Total Cook Time: 4.5 hours

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a meatless version.
• Cheesy goulash: For a creamy twist, add 1-2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) about 10 minutes before serving to melt into the dish.
• Spicy goulash: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the mix for some extra heat.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this goulash for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, either microwave individual portions or warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute elbow macaroni with other short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some pasta may take a little longer to cook.

2. Can I make this goulash in the oven instead of the crockpot?

Yes, you can! Brown the beef and onions, then combine all ingredients in a large oven-safe dish. Cover and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, adding the uncooked pasta during the last 15 minutes.

3. How can I make this goulash spicier?

To add heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a teaspoon of hot sauce. You can also opt for spicy marinara sauce to kick up the spice level.

4. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Just make sure to use a larger crockpot and adjust the cooking time if needed.

5. Can I add vegetables to the goulash?

Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, carrots, peas, or corn for extra flavor and nutrients. Add these veggies along with the sauce and beef to let them cook in the slow cooker.

6. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, this goulash freezes well. Just let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

7. Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken would all work well in this recipe. You could also try a vegetarian protein like lentils or crumbled tempeh for a plant-based version.

8. Can I use canned pasta instead of uncooked macaroni?

It’s best to use uncooked pasta to ensure it absorbs all the flavor from the sauce. Canned pasta will be too soft and may not hold up in the slow cooker.

9. How do I know when the macaroni is done cooking in the slow cooker?

The macaroni should be tender and fully cooked after 30-40 minutes. Stir it halfway through to ensure even cooking, and check for doneness by tasting a piece.

10. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes! You can add cheese either during cooking or right before serving. Shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of both will melt beautifully into the sauce.

Conclusion

Crockpot Goulash with Uncooked Macaroni is a simple, hearty meal that's perfect for busy days. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with different pasta, meats, or spices to suit your preferences. Whether you're making it for dinner tonight or preparing it for later in the week, this slow-cooked goulash is an easy and satisfying option that everyone will love!

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Crockpot Goulash with Uncooked Macaroni (Slow Cooker Recipe)

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This easy Crockpot Goulash with Uncooked Macaroni is the perfect slow cooker recipe for busy nights. With tender beef, savory marinara sauce, and pasta that cooks right in the pot, this hearty goulash is packed with flavor and minimal effort. It's a family-friendly dish that's perfect for meal prep, and you can customize it to your liking with extra veggies, spices, or cheese. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4.5 hours
• Total Time: 4.5 hours
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

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Instructions

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Transfer the beef mixture into the crockpot.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and soy sauce.
5. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours.
6. After 4 hours, stir in the uncooked macaroni. Cover and cook for an additional 30–40 minutes until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.
7. Stir everything together before serving.

Notes

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out ground beef for plant-based meat or add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a meatless version.
• Cheesy Version: Add 1-2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a creamy twist.
• Spicy Version: Toss in red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to spice it up.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni for those with dietary restrictions.