Homemade Slumgullion Recipe
Homemade Slumgullion Recipe
This Homemade Slumgullion Recipe is an old-fashioned comfort food classic made with tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and comes together in one pot, making it the perfect family dinner for busy weeknights.
Known by many names—including Slumgullion, American Goulash, Beef and Shells, and Poor Man’s Goulash—this nostalgic recipe has been a family favorite for generations. Every bite is loaded with savory beef, rich tomato flavor, tender pasta, and plenty of melted cheese.
If you’re looking for an easy homemade dinner that feeds a crowd and tastes even better the next day, this classic slumgullion recipe belongs on your menu.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pot comfort food
- Easy 30-minute dinner
- Budget-friendly family meal
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep
- Kid-approved
- Great for leftovers
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups medium pasta shells
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Homemade Slumgullion
Step 1
In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease.
Step 2
Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3
Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4
Add the uncooked pasta shells and stir well.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
Cover and simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and creamy.
Serve hot with extra cheese on top if desired.
Tips for the Best Slumgullion
- Cook the pasta just until tender.
- Freshly shred your cheese for the smoothest texture.
- Use a Dutch oven for even cooking.
- Add a splash of beef broth if the mixture becomes too thick.
- Let the slumgullion rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Cheesy Slumgullion
- Spicy Slumgullion with jalapeños
- Bacon Cheeseburger Slumgullion
- Mexican Slumgullion
- Creamy Slumgullion with cream cheese
- Slumgullion with mushrooms
- Ground turkey Slumgullion
What to Serve with Slumgullion
- Garlic bread
- Texas toast
- Green salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Green beans
- Corn on the cob
- Dinner rolls
- Caesar salad
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes! Cool completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with a splash of beef broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slumgullion?
Slumgullion is a classic American comfort food made with ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and seasonings. Depending on where you live, it’s also called American Goulash or Beef and Shells.
Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely! Elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta all work well, but medium shells hold the sauce beautifully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even more flavorful the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
More Ground Beef Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy hearty comfort food, be sure to try my Homemade Hamburger Helper, Beef Enchiladas, Taco Meat, Salisbury Steak, Classic Juicy Hamburgers, Spanish Rice, Stuffed Peppers, Ground Beef Casserole, and Easy Family Dinner Recipes for even more delicious meal ideas.
