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Slumgullion Recipe

BySarah
Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 6 reviews

If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Slumgullion Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a classic one-pot wonder that’s packed with savory beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce—perfect for those chilly nights when you want dinner on the table without fussing over multiple pans.

What I love most about this Slumgullion Recipe is how effortlessly it comes together, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours simmering something special. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that won’t disappoint and even makes great leftovers.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup because everything cooks in the same pot, saving you time and effort.
  • Balanced Flavors: The blend of tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire, and paprika creates a rich, savory depth you’ll love.
  • Comforting Texture: The macaroni cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all that juicy goodness for every satisfying bite.
  • Adaptability: Easy to tweak with different cheeses or spices based on what you have in your kitchen.
A close-up of a large white pot filled with a thick, hearty mixture of elbow macaroni pasta and ground meat in a rich, red tomato sauce. The pasta is soft and coated well with the sauce, along with small pieces of onions visible throughout. A large silver ladle is scooping up a serving from the pot, showing a dense cluster of the pasta and meat sauce, highlighting the texture and color contrast between the red sauce, brown meat, and pale pasta. The pot sits on a surface with a white marbled texture, and the overall look is warm and comforting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Slumgullion Recipe plays an important role in layering flavors and textures. From aromatic veggies to simple pantry staples, everything harmonizes perfectly. Let’s talk about why each one matters and how you can spot the best versions when you shop.

  • Olive oil: The base for sautéing adds a subtle fruity richness and helps soften the veggies beautifully.
  • Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down, acting as the flavor backbone of this dish.
  • Green bell pepper: Offers a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that balances the richness of the beef and tomato sauce.
  • Lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein while keeping the dish from feeling greasy—opt for at least 90% lean.
  • Garlic: Just a couple cloves bring an irresistible aromatic punch without overpowering.
  • Beef broth: Adds moisture and a savory base that enhances the meaty flavors.
  • Tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes: The tomato duo gives this dish its luscious red color and thick, comforting sauce texture.
  • Dry macaroni: Cooks directly in the sauce to absorb all those meaty, tomato flavors.
  • Worcestershire sauce: Adds an umami kick that elevates the savory depth in subtle but noticeable ways.
  • Italian seasoning: Brings herbs like oregano and basil that tie the tomato and beef components together.
  • Bay leaf: Used during simmering to impart a subtle earthiness—remember to remove before serving!
  • Paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of smoky sweetness.
  • Cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish for creamy, cheesy comfort and a bit of indulgence.
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning at every stage, making sure the flavors pop.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

I’m a huge fan of making recipes my own, and this Slumgullion Recipe is no exception. You can easily adjust the spice level, swap the cheese, or even turn this into a veggie-packed version. It’s all about what makes you feel happy and comfortable.

  • Add extra heat: I like tossing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when I want more kick—perfect for those who prefer spicy comfort food.
  • Cheese swap: Sometimes I switch cheddar for Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a different cheesy vibe.
  • Vegetarian version: Use plant-based ground beef or lentils and substitute vegetable broth to keep it hearty without the meat.
  • Seasonal veggies: Feel free to throw in diced zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Slumgullion Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Heat your olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, and ground beef, seasoning them with salt and pepper right away. Stir occasionally until the beef is fully browned and the veggies are softened—this usually takes about 7-8 minutes. The goal here is to build flavor from the start, so don’t rush and let everything get that lovely caramelized edge.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Liquids

Once your beef and veggies look perfect, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds—no more, or it could burn and turn bitter. Then pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes followed by Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and paprika. Give it a good stir and bring the whole pot to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer to Marry Flavors

Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let everything simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully and starts thickening the sauce. Be patient here; it’s the magic moment where your ingredients turn into that delicious comfort food we’re aiming for.

Step 4: Cook the Macaroni Right in the Sauce

Stir in the dry macaroni and crank the heat back up to medium-high. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente), usually 10-12 minutes. The pasta will soak up a lot of the sauce, so don’t be surprised if your pot looks thicker and more cohesive at this point.

Step 5: Final Touches with Cheese and Seasoning

Remove the bay leaf, then lower the heat and stir in your grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste your Slumgullion and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. At this stage, it’s all about balancing the flavors to make it truly yours.

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Pro Tips for Making Slumgullion Recipe

  • Use lean ground beef: It keeps the dish flavorful without excess grease pooling at the bottom.
  • Don’t skip stirring the pasta: Keeps macaroni from sticking and ensures even cooking throughout the dish.
  • Simmer covered: Holding in the steam helps soften the pasta and blend flavors without drying out the sauce.
  • Cheese at the end: Adding cheese last avoids curdling and keeps the texture perfectly creamy.

How to Serve Slumgullion Recipe

A white bowl filled with three main layers is shown up close; the bottom layer is elbow macaroni pasta with a smooth, pale yellow surface, the middle layer consists of ground beef and chopped green peppers mixed with a rich, thick, dark red tomato sauce that coats the pasta and meat evenly, and the top layer is the same meat and sauce mixture piled slightly higher in the middle, creating a textured, hearty appearance; the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a white and green striped cloth underneath, and behind it, a large blue pot with more of the same pasta dish inside is partially visible with a spoon sticking out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping my Slumgullion with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes, a dollop of sour cream or a few dashes of hot sauce take things up a notch—totally optional but so yummy!

Side Dishes

This dish shines best paired with a crisp, green salad or classic garlic bread. For a cozy meal, I sometimes add roasted vegetables on the side to round things out with some healthy crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

If I’m serving Slumgullion Recipe for a gathering, I like to dish it into individual ramekins and top them with extra cheese and a sprinkle of herbs, then broil briefly for a bubbly crust. It’s a fun way to jazz up the presentation without much extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen Slumgullion in portions several times. Just cool completely, pack in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed, it reheats well on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen it up.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low, stirring often. Add a little extra broth or water to keep the sauce saucy, and finish with a quick sprinkle of cheese for that fresh-from-the-pot feel.

FAQs

  1. Can I make Slumgullion Recipe in a slow cooker?

    Absolutely! Brown your beef and sauté veggies on the stovetop first, then transfer everything into a slow cooker. Add all the liquids and seasonings, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add dry macaroni during the last 30 minutes to prevent it from getting mushy.

  2. What type of pasta works best for Slumgullion Recipe?

    Traditional elbow macaroni or any small pasta like ditalini works best because it cooks quickly and holds sauce well. You want a shape that’s not too big or it could throw off the texture balance in the dish.

  3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and flavorful.

  4. Is there a way to make Slumgullion Recipe creamier?

    Yes! Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream right at the end along with the cheese. This adds a rich silkiness without overpowering the classic flavors.

  5. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

    Yes, you can assemble most of it a day in advance—brown the meat, prep the veggies, and mix the sauce. Keep pasta separate until ready to cook, then combine and finish on the stovetop for best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Slumgullion Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy nights with family and friends, sharing simple food that nourishes the soul. I hope you’ll find the same kind of comfort and joy in it as I do—give it a try, tweak it how you like, and make it your own cozy classic too.

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Slumgullion Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 6 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Slumgullion is a hearty, comforting one-pot dish featuring ground beef, vegetables, macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all cooked together and topped with melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups dry macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil and Cook Vegetables and Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and lean ground beef. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables have softened.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes. Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and paprika. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes to develop flavor.
  5. Cook Macaroni: Stir in the dry macaroni and increase heat to medium-high. Cook for 12 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
  6. Finish with Cheese: Remove the bay leaf and reduce heat to low. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Serve: Serve the slumgullion hot and enjoy this rich, comforting dish.

Notes

  • For a milder flavor, omit or reduce the paprika.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense cheese flavor or substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste.
  • Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a leaner option.
  • To make it gluten free, substitute regular macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
  • Leftovers reheat well and can be thickened with a splash of broth if needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

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