Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Poor Man’s Goulash

g for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Poor Man’s Goulash is a comforting family meal made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. It combines simple pantry staples into a rich, tomato-based pasta dish that is perfect for busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners.

Traditional American-style goulash is known for its savory beef, tender macaroni, and flavorful tomato sauce. This slow cooker version keeps the ingredient list short and the preparation easy, making it a practical choice when you want a filling meal without complicated cooking steps.

As the beef and tomatoes cook together, their flavors blend into a delicious sauce. The macaroni is added near the end so it cooks without becoming overly soft. Serve this easy goulash in generous bowls for a satisfying dinner that won't stretch your grocery budget.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Only five main ingredients: Simple, affordable ingredients make meal planning easy.
• Budget-friendly comfort food: Ground beef and pasta help feed the family economically.
• Easy slow cooker preparation: The beef and sauce cook while you handle other tasks.
• Rich tomato flavor: Diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth create a savory base.
• Family-friendly: Tender macaroni and seasoned beef make a familiar, filling combination.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni

These five ingredients form the basic recipe. If you prefer, you can add optional seasonings such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or black pepper, but they are not necessary for the simple version.

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Place the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles and cook until browned, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F. Drain excess grease before adding the beef to the slow cooker.

Browning first helps develop a richer flavor and prevents excess fat from collecting in the sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Add the browned beef to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir until the ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef Mixture

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. The tomato sauce will become flavorful as it cooks with the beef.

Because slow cookers vary, check that the mixture is thoroughly hot before adding the pasta.

Step 4: Add the Elbow Macaroni

Stir in the dry elbow macaroni during the final 20–30 minutes of cooking on HIGH. Cover and cook until the pasta is tender, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

If the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta is done, add a little hot broth or water. Pasta cooking time can vary by brand and slow cooker, so use the package directions as a guide.

Step 5: Stir and Serve

Once the macaroni is tender, stir the goulash thoroughly so the beef, pasta, and sauce are evenly distributed. Let it rest for a few minutes to thicken, then serve warm.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Goulash

Brown the beef first. This improves the flavor and helps remove excess grease.

Add pasta at the end. Macaroni can become mushy if left in the slow cooker for several hours.

Use low-sodium broth. This gives you more control over the final salt level.

Check the consistency. Pasta absorbs liquid as it cooks, so add a small amount of broth if the goulash becomes too thick.

Avoid overcooking. Start checking the macaroni early, since it can soften quickly in a hot slow cooker.

What to Serve With Poor Man’s Goulash

Serve this hearty goulash with garlic bread, warm dinner rolls, steamed green beans, or a simple garden salad. Roasted broccoli or buttered corn also makes a delicious side.

For a cheesy variation, sprinkle shredded cheddar over individual servings. This is an optional addition beyond the five-ingredient base recipe.

Storage and Reheating

Allow leftovers to cool slightly and transfer them to shallow, airtight containers. Refrigerate within two hours and use within 3–4 days.

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until the goulash reaches 165°F. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, as the macaroni will continue absorbing liquid during storage.

You can freeze the beef and tomato sauce separately for up to three months for best quality. Cook fresh macaroni when serving for a better pasta texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes. Small shells, rotini, or other short pasta shapes can work. Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package directions.

Can I skip browning the beef?

Browning is strongly recommended for flavor and to drain excess fat. It also helps ensure the ground beef is properly cooked before it enters the slow cooker.

Why is my goulash too thick?

The macaroni absorbs liquid as it cooks and rests. Stir in a little hot broth or water until the sauce reaches your preferred consistency.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the beef and tomato sauce ahead of time, refrigerate it promptly, and reheat thoroughly before adding freshly cooked macaroni.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Poor Man’s Goulash is an easy, affordable dinner that brings together ground beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce. With just five main ingredients and a little preparation, you can make a satisfying meal that fits busy schedules and family budgets.

Serve it with warm bread or a fresh salad, and keep this simple slow cooker recipe handy for nights when you want comforting homemade food without a complicated recipe.