Slow cooker Southern-style goulash is a delicious, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. With its rich combination of ground beef, tender pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce, it’s a meal that brings comfort and nostalgia, reminding many of their grandmother’s kitchen. While it may have roots in Southern American cuisine, this goulash has a unique twist compared to traditional Hungarian goulash, focusing on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that are easy to find. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, satisfying meal that’s already prepared.
Pair this hearty goulash with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans to add a touch of color and extra nutrition to your meal. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it alongside warm cornbread or buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of sweet iced tea or lemonade can round out the meal for a true Southern experience.
Slow Cooker Southern Style Goulash Recipe
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Directions:
Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Slow Cook the Goulash:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich, savory base for the goulash.
Add the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed and covered by the sauce. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce, approximately 30 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the goulash just before serving. This adds a creamy, cheesy layer that enhances the dish’s flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Add Extra Vegetables: If you want to boost the nutritional value of this dish, consider adding finely chopped carrots, zucchini, or even spinach. The additional veggies blend seamlessly into the sauce and add a boost of vitamins and fiber.
Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. This will give the goulash a slight kick without overpowering its classic flavors.
Substitute the Meat: For a lighter version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This change won’t affect the flavor too much but will reduce the overall fat content.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free as well. The taste and texture will remain delicious.
Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving. Stir it into the goulash for a richer, smoother sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Style Goulash
This Southern-style goulash is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a delicious blend of ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, tomato-based sauce. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making it a perfect recipe for busy families or anyone looking for an easy yet satisfying meal. The best part? It’s versatile enough to accommodate different dietary preferences and ingredient substitutions, so you can easily customize it to suit your taste.
What to Serve with Southern Style Goulash
To complete the meal, consider pairing the goulash with one or more of these side dishes:
Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the goulash. Try a mix of romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing side.
Steamed Vegetables: Green beans, broccoli, or even asparagus are excellent choices to serve alongside the goulash. Their fresh flavors complement the hearty nature of the dish.
Cornbread: Southern-style cornbread is a classic pairing that works perfectly with the goulash’s savory tomato sauce. Serve it warm with a dab of butter for extra comfort.
Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers: Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This goulash freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top to accommodate expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the goulash has thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
Slow cooker Southern-style goulash is a timeless dish that combines convenience, comfort, and incredible flavor in one pot. Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. The tender pasta, savory sauce, and hearty beef create a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a regular favorite in your household!
With its easy preparation and delicious results, this goulash is the perfect answer to busy weeknight dinners or leisurely weekend meals. Enjoy the comforting taste of Southern cuisine, and don’t forget to serve it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable dining experience.
