Slow Cooker Goulash with Macaroni and Cheese
Slow Cooker Goulash with Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of classic beef goulash with creamy, melted cheddar macaroni and cheese. This easy-to-make slow cooker meal is perfect for cozy dinners and family-friendly gatherings, using simple ingredients to create a budget-friendly and satisfying comfort food classic.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free option available
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Base
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics: Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant and soft. This step builds a flavor foundation before transferring ingredients to the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef, onions, and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Add Macaroni Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the dry elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and continue cooking until the pasta is tender, usually 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking.
- Stir in Cheese and Finish: Once the macaroni is cooked, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top and stir until it melts completely, creating a creamy and comforting texture.
Notes
- Brown beef first to add richer flavor and reduce excess fat.
- Sauté onions and garlic to bring essential depth and sweetness.
- Add macaroni towards the end of cooking to avoid mushy pasta.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor in the creamy sauce.
- Stir gently when mixing in pasta and cheese to maintain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: thirty-five g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
Keywords: slow cooker goulash, macaroni and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal, beef goulash, creamy pasta
