Introduction
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a pot of goulash simmering away in the slow cooker, filling your home with enticing aromas. This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Poor Man Goulash is the kind of dish that brings families together, offering a deliciously hearty meal perfect for any day of the week. With just four primary ingredients, it’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that warms the soul while being easy on the wallet. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 3 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional, to taste)
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups water (as needed to cook pasta and loosen sauce)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
Total Time: 4–5 hours 15 minutes (LOW) or 2–3 hours 15 minutes (HIGH)
Yield: 6–8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, stirring occasionally until the meat is beautifully browned and no pink remains, about 7–10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully spoon off most of it, leaving just a couple of tablespoons for flavor.
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook together for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and turn translucent at the edges.
- Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker, making sure to scrape in all the delicious browned bits from the skillet.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring well to combine it with the beef and onions. If desired, season with salt and black pepper.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for about 4–5 hours, or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
- Approximately 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in 1 1/2 cups of water to loosen the sauce, then add the dry elbow macaroni. Make sure to stir well so the pasta is submerged in the saucy mixture.
- Cover the slow cooker again and cook on HIGH for an additional 20–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the macaroni is tender but not mushy.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, ladled straight from the slow cooker.
Notes or Tips
This goulash is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to add in some chopped bell peppers or garlic for an extra depth of flavor. You could also sprinkle some grated cheese on top just before serving for a creamy touch! If you’re looking for a healthier twist, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully as a substitute for beef.
Cooking Techniques
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a rich and comforting dish that requires minimal effort. It’s important to sauté the beef and onions first, as this step builds a robust base for the goulash. If you prefer a faster preparation, you can prepare this on the stovetop, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to boil the pasta directly in the sauce.
FAQ
Can I make this goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the goulash a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. It also freezes well for a quick meal later!
What can I serve with goulash?
Goulash is delicious on its own, but serving it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad can round out the meal perfectly.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Poor Man Goulash is more than just a dish; it’s a cozy embrace on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather around, dig in, and savor the rich, comforting flavors of this family classic!