5-Ingredient Slow Cooker American Goulash (Easy & Comforting One-Pot Meal)
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly, and family-approved dinner, this 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker American Goulash is the perfect solution. Made with pantry staples and minimal prep, this classic comfort food delivers rich, savory flavor with almost no effort.
This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a hearty homemade meal without standing over the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker American Goulash
Only 5 main ingredients
Minimal prep work
One slow cooker = easy cleanup
Hearty, filling, and kid-friendly
Perfect for leftovers and freezing
Ingredients (5 Simple Ingredients)
1½ pounds ground beef (80–90% lean)
3 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
1 (24-ounce) jar tomato-based pasta sauce
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 8 ounces)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
Optional Pantry Staples
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully browned and no pink remains.
If there is excess grease, drain most of it, leaving about 1 tablespoon for added flavor.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
Pour in the beef broth and tomato-based pasta sauce.
Stir well so the beef is evenly distributed and the liquids are fully combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Goulash Base
Cover and cook:
LOW for 4–5 hours, or
HIGH for 2–3 hours
This slow cooking allows the beef and tomato sauce to blend into a rich, flavorful base.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, making sure it’s completely submerged in the liquid.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.
The pasta should be tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Taste and season with salt and black pepper if needed.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, cover, and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts.
Gently stir so the cheese is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the hot goulash into bowls and top with extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Variations & Customization Ideas
Even though this is a 5-ingredient recipe, you can easily customize it:
Classic American Goulash Flavor
Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder with the sauce.Spicy Version
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.Meat Options
Swap half the beef with Italian sausage or use ground turkey for a lighter meal.Add Vegetables
Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or frozen mixed vegetables when adding the pasta.Creamier Goulash
Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoon of cream cheese before the shredded cheese.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Goulash
Always add pasta near the end to avoid overcooking.
Stir once during pasta cooking to prevent clumping.
If your slow cooker runs hot, start checking pasta at 15–20 minutes.
For leftovers, add a little broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze without pasta for best texture (up to 2 months)
Reheat: Microwave or stovetop with a splash of broth
Final Thoughts
This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker American Goulash is the ultimate comfort meal—simple, filling, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for beginners, busy families, and anyone who loves classic American home cooking with minimal effort.