Slumgullion Recipe

Introduction

There’s Slumgullion Recipe incredibly nostalgic about a pot of Slumgullion simmering on the stove. It’s a dish that goes by many names—some call it “chili mac,” others “goulash,” and some simply know it as the hearty skillet meal grandma used to make. Slumgullion has roots deep in American kitchens, often prepared during the Great Depression as a way to stretch ingredients into a filling, budget-friendly dinner.

I first tried Slumgullion at my grandmother’s farmhouse. It was cold outside, and I remember walking into the kitchen and being greeted by the warm aroma of simmering beef, onions, and tomatoes. She’d ladle big scoops into bowls, sprinkle a little cheddar on top, and serve it with crusty bread. That first bite was a revelation—savory, cheesy, and deeply comforting.

What makes this recipe so special is how simple it is to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples like macaroni, tomato sauce, and ground beef, you can create a meal that feeds a crowd and brings everyone to the table. It’s the kind of dish that fills the belly, warms the heart, and brings back cherished memories.

If you love family-style classics like this, you might also enjoy my Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe—another comfort food staple.

 Ingredients for Slumgullion Recipe

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 ½ cups dry macaroni

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

• Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste

 Directions for Slumgullion Recipe

1. Brown the Beef and Veggies
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and ground beef. Cook until beef is browned and veggies soften, seasoning with salt and pepper. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

2. Simmer the Sauce
   Stir in beef broth, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and paprika. Let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, covered, so the flavors meld beautifully.

3. Cook the Macaroni
   Add dry macaroni directly into the sauce. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

4. Finish with Cheese
   Remove the bay leaf. Stir in grated cheddar until creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle into bowls and serve hot. It pairs wonderfully with Basic Vegetable Soup or a side salad for a full meal.

 Tips & Variations

• Add Heat: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Make It Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream before serving.

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef.

• Veggie Boost: Add carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini for more nutrition.

• Cheese Lovers: Swap cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a gooey twist.

 Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

• Meal Prep Tip: Keep pasta slightly undercooked before freezing to avoid mushiness when reheating.

 Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

 Tools Used

• Dutch oven or large pot

• Wooden spoon

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Sharp knife & cutting board

 FAQ

Q1: Can I make Slumgullion ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.

Q2: Can I substitute the pasta?
Absolutely. Elbow macaroni is traditional, but penne, rotini, or even shells work just as well.

Final Thoughts: Slumgullion Recipe

This Slumgullion Recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and delicious. It’s hearty, affordable, and versatile—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce topped with melted cheese makes it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation.

If you’re craving more easy, family-friendly meals, check out Delish’s best one-pot dinner ideas for inspiration. And don’t forget to try my Homemade Tomato Sauce Recipe next—it’s the perfect base for many comfort food dishes.

TINSUF RECIPES

Slumgullion Recipe

This Slumgullion Recipe is a hearty one-pot meal made with ground beef, tomatoes, and macaroni. Cheesy, comforting, and perfect for family dinners

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• - 2 tbsp olive oil
• - 1 yellow onion diced
• - 1 green bell pepper diced
• - 1 lb lean ground beef
• - 2 garlic cloves minced
• - 2 cups beef broth
• - 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
• - 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
• - 1 ½ cups dry macaroni
• - 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• - 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• - 1 bay leaf
• - 1 tsp paprika
• - 1 cup cheddar cheese grated
• - Kosher salt & pepper to taste

Equipment

• - Dutch oven or large pot
• - Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife
• - Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Heat oil in a Dutch oven. Cook onion, bell pepper, and ground beef until browned. Add garlic and cook briefly.
2. Stir in broth, tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire, seasoning, bay leaf, and paprika. Simmer 15–20 minutes.
3. Add macaroni and cook until pasta is tender, about 10–12 minutes.
4. Remove bay leaf. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

- Store in fridge up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
- Add extra veggies for more nutrition.
- Try ground turkey or sausage as a variation.