Nostalgic American Goulash

Slumgullion stirs up memories of cozy family dinners and humble beginnings. This hearty blend of pasta, ground beef, and rich tomato sauce has been filling hungry bellies for generations. It's the kind of meal that proves the best comfort food doesn't need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques.

Just last month, I made this for a potluck, and three people asked for the recipe. There's something magical about how these simple ingredients come together to create such a satisfying meal.

Essential Ingredients Guide

• Lean ground beef: Creates the perfect balance of flavor without excess grease
• Elbow macaroni: The classic choice for soaking up all that savory sauce
• Fresh garlic: Builds an aromatic foundation
• Sweet onions: Adds natural sweetness as they cook down
• Quality tomato sauce: Forms the backbone of this comforting dish

Pin it

Detailed Instructions

Veggie Foundation:

Start by softening those onions and peppers until they're fragrant and tender.

Beef Building:

Brown that ground beef until it's got some crispy bits that's where the flavor lives.

Sauce Symphony:

Add your tomatoes and broth, letting all those flavors start to mingle together.

Pasta Perfect:

Let those noodles cook right in the sauce, drinking up all that rich flavor.

Cheesy Finale:

Stir in that melty cheddar, watching it create ribbons of goodness throughout.

Growing up, my grandmother would make this when all the cousins came over. She taught me that adding a tiny pinch of sugar helps balance the tomatoes' acidity it's become my secret ingredient.

Perfect Pairings

A simple green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Garlic bread is essential for soaking up every last bit of sauce. For extra vegetables, roasted broccoli on the side adds nice contrast.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I swap in Italian sausage for half the beef, adding extra depth. A handful of fresh spinach stirred in at the end adds color and nutrition. For heat lovers, red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños create a nice kick.

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftovers in an airtight container they actually taste better the next day. The pasta will absorb more sauce overnight, so when reheating, add a splash of beef broth to bring back that perfect consistency.

Next-Day Magic

Reheat portions gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top just before serving to bring back that melty magic.

Pin it

After years of making this dish, I've learned that simple comfort food has a way of bringing people together. Whether it's a busy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, there's something about a big pot of slumgullion that makes everyone feel at home. It's not fancy, but it's exactly what you want when you need a warm, comforting hug in a bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead?

Yes, but the pasta may absorb more liquid. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to reach desired consistency.

→ What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but you can also use mild cheddar or a mix of cheeses like monterey jack.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but the pasta might be softer when thawed. Cool completely before freezing and use within 3 months.

→ Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, small pasta shapes like shells or rotini work well. Adjust cooking time based on package instructions.

→ Why add bay leaves?

Bay leaves add subtle depth to the sauce. Remember to remove them before serving.