Crockpot Goulash

This Crockpot Goulash is the ultimate comfort food! An easy slow cooker dinner made with ground beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all cooked in the slow cooker. Yes, even the pasta! Cozy, hearty, and perfect for busy nights!

Crockpot Goulash

This Crockpot Goulash is the ultimate cozy, family-friendly dinner. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce, all slow cooked to let the flavors really come together.

This is an American-style goulash recipe, sometimes called “American chop suey,” made with ground beef, pasta, and a tomato-based sauce, not the traditional Hungarian version.

If you love classic comfort food but want something hands-off, this recipe is a total win. Just brown the beef, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work. It’s perfect for busy days, feeding a crowd, or just making sure everyone leaves the table full and happy.

If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can also make this on the stovetop with my Stovetop American Goulash recipe. It has the same classic flavors but comes together in about 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy, hands-off cooking - The slow cooker does most of the work for you. Even the pasta.
• Family-friendly flavors - Classic, comforting, and kid-approved.
• Hearty and filling - Packed with beef, pasta, and rich tomato sauce.
• Great for busy days - Prep it earlier and dinner is ready when you are.
• Perfect for leftovers - Tastes just as good (if not better!) the next day.

Tips & Variations

• Browning the beef first is key: This adds flavor and keeps the texture just right. Don’t skip it.
• Add pasta at the end: The macaroni goes in during the last hour so it doesn’t get mushy.
• Cook time flexibility: You can cook this on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 2 to 4 hours depending on your schedule.
• Adjust the thickness: If your goulash is thicker than you like, stir in a little extra water or broth before serving.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella at the end for a creamy, cheesy twist.
• Different pasta options: Small shapes like shells or rotini work well. Just keep an eye on cook time.
• Make ahead option: Prep everything (except the pasta) ahead of time and refrigerate, then cook when ready.
• Freezer-friendly tips: For best texture, freeze without the pasta and add fresh noodles when reheating.
• Add extra veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini are great additions.
• Stovetop Goulash: A quick, one-pot version of this classic comfort dish ready in about 30 minutes.

What to Serve with Crockpot Goulash

This is a full meal on its own, but a few simple sides make it even better.

Serve it with warm garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, satisfying dinner. It’s also great with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.

Storage & Freezer Directions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

For freezing, store without the pasta for best results. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw and reheat, adding freshly cooked noodles before serving.

More Easy Ground Beef Recipes You'll Love

• Homemade Hamburger Helper - A creamy, cheesy one-pot pasta loaded with ground beef for an easy, nostalgic weeknight dinner.
• Sloppy Joe Casserole - All the sweet and savory flavors of classic sloppy joes baked into a hearty, family-friendly casserole.
• Ground Beef Stroganoff - Rich and creamy with tender noodles and savory beef, this is a cozy comfort food favorite.
• Porcupine Meatballs - Juicy meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with rice cooked right inside for a fun, hearty meal.
• Philly Cheesesteak Pasta - A cheesy, savory pasta loaded with beef, peppers, and onions inspired by the classic sandwich.

Crockpot Goulash Video