Here’s a recipe for Slumgullion, a classic, hearty American comfort food. It’s a budget-friendly, one-pot meal traditionally made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, tomatoes, and vegetables. Think of it as a cross between American goulash and a beefy pasta skillet. There are many variations, but this version strikes a balance between tradition and flavor.
🍲 Slumgullion Recipe (Classic American Goulash Style)
✅ Servings: 6-8
⏱️ Time: 15 min prep | 30 min cook
🧂 Ingredients:
Meat & Pasta:
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1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
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2 cups (about 8 oz) elbow macaroni, uncooked
Vegetables:
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 medium green bell pepper, diced
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1 medium carrot, diced (optional)
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1 stalk celery, diced (optional)
Tomato Base:
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1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
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1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 cup beef broth (or water with bouillon)
Seasonings:
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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½ tsp chili powder (optional, for mild kick)
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami)
Optional Toppings:
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Chopped parsley or green onions
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
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Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package says). Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the beef:
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In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
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Drain excess fat (optional, but reduces greasiness).
3. Add vegetables:
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To the same pot, add chopped onion, bell pepper, carrot, and celery (if using).
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Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.
4. Add tomato base:
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Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and beef broth.
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Mix well and bring to a simmer.
5. Season it up:
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Add salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, basil, chili powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
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Stir and reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine pasta & sauce:
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Add the cooked macaroni into the tomato-beef mixture.
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Stir to combine everything. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
7. Taste & adjust:
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Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
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If it’s too thick, splash in a little more broth or water.
8. Serve:
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Dish into bowls and top with shredded cheese and chopped herbs if desired.
📝 Notes & Variations:
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Cheesy version: Stir in 1–2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella at the end.
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Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
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Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner dish.
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Add beans: Some versions include a can of kidney or black beans for a chili-like twist.
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Freezer-friendly: Let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.