Best Slow Cooker Goulash – Easy Comfort Food Recipe

There’s something magical about a slow cooker bubbling away all day, filling the house with the rich, savory aroma of comfort food. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—especially when that bowl is filled with tender beef, sweet paprika, and hearty vegetables. This Slow Cooker Goulash is my go-to recipe when I want a fuss-free, deeply satisfying meal that tastes like it’s been simmered with love all day long (even if I only spent 15 minutes prepping it!).

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Goulash

Goulash is a Hungarian classic, but my version leans into the cozy, no-fuss appeal of slow cooking. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, the tomatoes meld into a luscious sauce, and the paprika gives it that signature warmth. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—swap in what you have, set it, and forget it until dinnertime. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 lbs beef chuck – Cut into 1-inch cubes. Chuck roast is ideal because it stays tender during long cooking.
• 2 large onions – Thinly sliced. They practically melt into the sauce, adding sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced. Because what’s a stew without garlic?
• 2 red bell peppers – Chopped. They add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 tbsp sweet paprika – The star of the show! Use Hungarian if you can—it has the best flavor.
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes – With their juices for a rich, tangy base.
• 2 cups beef broth – Low-sodium so you can control the seasoning.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste – For depth and richness.
• 1 tsp caraway seeds – Optional, but they add an earthy, slightly nutty note.
• Salt & black pepper – To taste.
• 2 bay leaves – For a subtle herbal aroma.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For browning the beef.

How to Make Slow Cooker Goulash (Step-by-Step)

1. Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the beef dry (this helps it brown better!), then sear in batches until deeply browned on all sides. Don’t skip this step—it adds SO much flavor!
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, bell peppers, and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Layer in the slow cooker: Transfer the beef and veggie mixture to your slow cooker. Sprinkle the paprika evenly over everything (this prevents clumping!), then add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, caraway seeds, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and the sauce rich and slightly thickened.
5. Adjust and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Tip: If the sauce seems too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Making the best slow cooker goulash is all about personalizing it to your taste! Here are some pro tips and variations to make this dish your own:

• Meat Choices: While beef is traditional, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Pasta Swap: If elbow macaroni isn’t your favorite, try small shells, penne, or rotini—just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
• Cheesy Goodness: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella at the end for an extra creamy, cheesy finish.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Goulash

This hearty dish is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a few sides can make it even more satisfying. Here are some delicious accompaniments:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad balances the richness of the goulash.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a wholesome touch.
• Pickles or Coleslaw: A tangy side cuts through the savory flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this goulash on the stovetop?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first, then simmer everything together for about 20–25 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Substitute 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes for the canned ones, but you may need to add a bit more liquid (like broth) to compensate.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free elbow macaroni and use a gluten-free soy sauce or Worcestershire alternative.

Why is my goulash too thick?

If it’s too thick, stir in a little extra broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a steaming bowl of slow cooker goulash—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to tweak it to your liking, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite. Happy cooking!