Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this poor man goulash will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Great for leftovers. Use ground beef and pantry staples.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Hearty and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves goulash.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef, pasta, and sauce are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6 to 8
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2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
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1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
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2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
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3 cups dry elbow macaroni
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1 teaspoon kosher salt (optional, to taste)
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper (optional, to taste)
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1 1/2 to 2 cups water (as needed to cook pasta and loosen sauce)
Ingredient Notes
Ground beef: Use 80% to 85% lean ground beef.
Onion: Use a large yellow onion. Dice it finely.
Tomato sauce: Use canned tomato sauce.
Macaroni: Use dry elbow macaroni.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until well browned. Drain off most of the fat.
Step 2: Add the Onions
Stir the diced onion into the browned beef. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the onions start to soften.
Step 3: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Scrape the beef and onion mixture into a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well to combine. Add salt and pepper if using.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Base
Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours.
Step 6: Add Water and Macaroni
About 30 to 40 minutes before serving, stir in 1 1/2 cups of water. Add the dry elbow macaroni and stir well.
Step 7: Cook the Pasta
Cover and cook on HIGH for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the macaroni is tender.
Step 8: Adjust and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot straight from the slow cooker.
How to Serve Poor Man Goulash
This hearty goulash is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Add garlic bread on the side.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil.
With Grated Parmesan: Add Parmesan on top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use shells or rotini.
Make It with Italian Sausage: Use Italian sausage.
Make It with Herbs: Add oregano or basil.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Brown the beef well. This adds flavor.
Do not overcook the pasta. It should be tender, not mushy.
Let the goulash rest before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Shells or rotini can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Crushed tomatoes or marinara can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add peppers or mushrooms.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I use fresh pasta?
Yes. Reduce the cook time.
The Beauty of Simple Goulash
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, hearty goulash that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This poor man goulash is a celebration of all those things.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep pasta and sauce in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours on LOW or 2 to 3 hours on HIGH, plus 20 to 30 minutes on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
Yield: 6 to 8 servings