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Crock Pot American Goulash

Crock Pot American Goulash

This Crock Pot American Goulash is a hearty slow cooker meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, pasta sauce, and macaroni. It’s comforting, budget-friendly, and a true family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small sweet onion finely diced
  • 1 green pepper finely diced (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 24- ounce jar pasta sauce such as Rao’s Roasted Garlic
  • 8- ounce can tomato sauce
  • 15- ounce can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni

Method
 

  1. Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with onion, garlic, and green pepper (if using). Drain excess fat.
  2. Build the base: Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add pasta sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, Italian seasoning, and sugar. Stir to combine.
  3. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
  4. Add pasta: Stir in elbow macaroni during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking. Cover and cook until pasta is tender but not mushy.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes. Serve warm with bread or salad.

Notes

  • Macaroni timing: Add pasta late to prevent it from getting mushy. If cooking on high, check after 20 minutes.
  • Flavor boost: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add depth.
  • Veggie upgrade: Diced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn can be stirred in for more nutrition.