If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food — one that’s affordable, hearty, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a hungry family — look no further than Slumgullion, also known as American Goulash. This beloved dish combines tender ground beef, soft elbow macaroni, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheddar cheese into a meal that’s both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about making the best Slumgullion (American Goulash). We’ll start with the recipe itself, then move on to helpful tips, ingredient variations, serving suggestions, health benefits, storage ideas, common mistakes to avoid, and creative ways to elevate your dish. We’ll also answer some of the most frequently asked questions and wrap up with a strong conclusion to inspire you to get cooking.

Let’s start with the recipe that has stood the test of time.

Slumgullion (American Goulash) Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups water or beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water or beef broth, and uncooked macaroni.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Calories: ~380 per serving | Servings: 6

Why Slumgullion Is Such a Beloved Dish

What makes Slumgullion (American Goulash) so special? For starters, it’s an affordable, easy-to-make one-pot meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can customize the flavors, spice level, and even the type of cheese to suit your taste.

Here are just a few reasons this dish continues to win hearts and fill bellies:

• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and stretches to feed a crowd.
• Family-friendly: Mild flavors and comforting texture make it appealing to all ages.
• One-pot convenience: Less cleanup, more time to relax.
• Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
• Nostalgia factor: Many people grew up eating this at home or at school, giving it sentimental value.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Slumgullion

Even a humble dish like Slumgullion benefits from high-quality ingredients. Here’s what to look for:

Ground Beef

Opt for 85–90% lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and minimal grease.

Onion

Yellow or white onions work best for their sweetness and mild bite.

Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes

Choose good-quality canned tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with no added sugar or preservatives if possible.

Macaroni

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but you can experiment with other short pasta shapes.

Broth

Using beef broth instead of water adds depth and richness to the sauce.

Cheese

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a savory kick. You can also mix in mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Tips for Perfect Slumgullion Every Time

While this recipe is forgiving, a few simple tricks can help you elevate your Slumgullion to the next level:

• Cook the beef thoroughly but don’t over-brown, to keep it tender.
• Use freshly shredded cheese — it melts better than pre-shredded.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as you go, adding a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs if desired.
• Stir the pasta occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens and flavors meld.

Creative Variations to Try

One of the beauties of Slumgullion (American Goulash) is its adaptability. Here are some fun ways to change it up:

Spicy Slumgullion

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Tex-Mex Style

Mix in black beans, corn, chili powder, and top with cilantro.

Cheesy Supreme

Double the cheese and sprinkle extra on top before serving.

Veggie-Packed

Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.

Mediterranean Twist

Swap cheddar for feta, add olives and oregano, and use whole-wheat pasta.

Perfect Side Dishes for Slumgullion

Though hearty enough to stand alone, you can round out your meal with these sides:

• Garlic bread or crusty rolls
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted or steamed vegetables
• Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• Pickles or relish to cut through the richness

Storing and Reheating Slumgullion

This dish stores beautifully and is ideal for meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally.

Health Benefits of Slumgullion

While hearty, Slumgullion (American Goulash) can also be nutritious:

• Provides a good source of lean protein from beef.
• Tomatoes contribute vitamins C and A, plus antioxidants.
• Cheese adds calcium and protein.
• Adding vegetables increases fiber and nutrients.
• Using whole-grain pasta makes it even more wholesome.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even simple recipes can go wrong if you’re not careful. Watch out for these pitfalls:

• Overcooking the pasta: Stir and taste regularly to avoid mushy noodles.
• Too much liquid: Simmer uncovered so the sauce reduces properly.
• Not seasoning enough: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices as needed.
• Using low-fat cheese: Full-fat cheese melts better and adds creaminess.

History of Slumgullion

The term Slumgullion originally referred to a cheap, watery stew made during the California Gold Rush. Over time, it evolved into the hearty, pasta-filled dish we now call American Goulash, popularized in the Midwest and throughout the U.S. This comforting meal has since become a staple at potlucks, school cafeterias, and family dinner tables.

Slumgullion for Special Occasions

You might think of Slumgullion as a casual dinner, but you can dress it up for events too:

• Serve it in ramekins with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
• Make a double batch for parties — it’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Offer a toppings bar with extra cheese, hot sauce, and chopped herbs for guests to customize their plates.

How to Make Slumgullion Healthier

If you’re watching your diet, here are a few tweaks to make your Slumgullion lighter:

• Use leaner ground beef or ground turkey.
• Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or lentil pasta.
• Cut back on the cheese or use a lighter version.
• Load up on vegetables to bulk up the dish without adding many calories.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Many comfort foods can be heavy and time-consuming. Slumgullion (American Goulash), however, is quick, satisfying, and customizable. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. It’s approachable for beginner cooks and still impressive enough for seasoned home chefs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between Slumgullion and Hungarian Goulash?

Hungarian Goulash is a paprika-based beef stew, while Slumgullion (American Goulash) is a ground beef, tomato, and pasta dish.

Can I make Slumgullion ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully and often tastes better the next day.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely — any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini works well.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Simmer just until al dente and don’t let it sit too long after cooking.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even parmesan.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes — just cool completely, store in airtight containers, and freeze. Thaw and reheat when ready to eat.

Conclusion

When it comes to comforting, crowd-pleasing meals, Slumgullion (American Goulash) is hard to beat. With its combination of tender beef, rich tomato sauce, hearty pasta, and gooey cheese, it delivers nostalgia and flavor in every bite. Affordable, easy to prepare, and endlessly customizable, this dish belongs in every home cook’s repertoire.

Now that you have all the tools, tips, and ideas for perfecting your own Slumgullion, it’s time to grab your ingredients, heat up your pot, and create a dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and make this classic dish your own!

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