Description
Slumgullion is a hearty, comforting one-pot meal featuring ground beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce infused with Italian seasoning and paprika, topped with melted cheddar cheese. This classic American dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner that combines protein, pasta, and vegetables in a flavorful, easy-to-make casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Heat Oil and Cook Aromatics: In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add 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 fully cooked and vegetables are softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its aroma.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and crushed tomatoes. Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, and paprika. Season again with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook Pasta: Stir in the dry macaroni. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and the sauce thickens, about 12 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the bay leaf and reduce heat to low. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Spoon the slumgullion into bowls or plates and serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option and less grease.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeño peppers when cooking the onion and bell pepper.
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with any small pasta shape like shells or ditalini.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of milk or cream before adding the cheese.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
