Learn how to make a classic slumgullion recipe. Also called American goulash, Johnny Marzetti, American chop suey, or beefaroni depending on your region, slumgullion is an inexpensive, comforting one-pot meal your family will enjoy. These straightforward stovetop directions produce a thick, tomato-forward goulash that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
There are many variations of slumgullion. I’ve shared a slow-cooker version before, but this recipe shows how to make it quickly on the stovetop for a hearty family dinner.
➕ What is slumgullion?
Slumgullion traditionally refers to a meat stew. In the U.S., the term is commonly used for an American-style goulash made with ground beef, macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce.
🍅 What is slumgullion made of?
Here are the ingredients for a classic stovetop slumgullion:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 cup onion, chopped (about one small onion)
- 1 lb ground beef (454 grams; lean or 80/20 for richer flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups marinara sauce (about 12 fl oz)
- 1 cup canned diced tomato (about 8 fl oz)
- 1½ tablespoons concentrated tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 ounces dry elbow macaroni (170 grams)
- Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for topping (optional)
This is how my family has made slumgullion for years. The combination of marinara, diced tomato, and tomato paste creates a satisfying texture with both saucy and chunky elements.
Goulash is flexible—some people use tomato soup instead of marinara, or thin the sauce with a little beef or chicken broth if they prefer a looser consistency.
You can also swap the macaroni for rice, or top the finished dish with shredded cheddar in addition to or instead of Parmesan. Other tasty additions include:
- Bell pepper
- Mushrooms
- Corn
- Ground sausage
- Sliced olives
- Italian seasoning or paprika
This recipe is highly adaptable—feel free to experiment with ingredients and seasonings to suit your family’s taste.
🔪 How to Make American Slumgullion
Step-by-step instructions for stovetop slumgullion:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium heat. Add oil, then the ground beef and chopped onion. Brown for 10–15 minutes, breaking the meat into crumbles as it cooks, until the onion is soft and the beef is cooked through.
Add the garlic, marinara sauce, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, basil, and oregano. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Stir in the cooked macaroni during the final 5 minutes so it absorbs the sauce.
Finish with grated Parmesan and torn fresh basil, if desired, and serve hot.
⭐ What is the difference between slumgullion and goulash?
In the United States, slumgullion and American goulash are essentially the same: a comforting dish of elbow macaroni, ground beef, and a tomato-based sauce. Regional names vary, but the core concept is similar.
📋 Slumgullion Calories
A serving of this slumgullion made with lean ground beef contains about 651 calories, 62.5 g carbohydrates, and 35.9 g protein. Using fattier 80/20 ground beef increases the calories per serving.
🌡️ How to Store Slumgullion Leftovers
Store leftovers in covered containers in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze the pasta and meat mixture separately to preserve texture; combine them only when reheating to serve.
FAQs
Where did the term slumgullion come from?
The exact origin is uncertain. Some historical notes suggest the word combines older dialect terms with less appetizing meanings, but the modern usage simply names a humble, hearty stew.
Where did slumgullion originate?
Slumgullion’s origins are unclear. Variations of the name and the dish appear in the United States, Ireland, and Britain. Early printed references include literary mentions, though meanings and preparations have varied over time.
How to make slumgullion with potatoes?
Swap cooked, chopped potatoes for the macaroni or serve the goulash over mashed potatoes for a different, comforting presentation.
How to make traditional Irish slumgullion?
Traditional Irish versions resemble a classic stew using meat and potatoes rather than pasta. Use stewing cuts, root vegetables, and a savory broth base for an authentic approach.
How to make American vegan goulash?
To make a vegan slumgullion, replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use a vegan cheese alternative or skip the cheese topping entirely.
How to make a German slumgullion recipe?
German goulash differs from the American version; it often includes red wine and paprika and is served with different starches such as potatoes or noodles. Adjust seasonings and liquids accordingly for a richer, braised result.
👩🏻🍳 More Comfort Food Recipes
Other comforting pasta and ground beef recipes to try include unstuffed cabbage rolls, hearty pasta salads, or creamy mushroom tagliatelle. Swap ingredients to match seasonality and preferences.
Slumgullion Recipe (American Slumgullion Stew)
Summer Yule
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 cup onion, chopped (about one small onion)
- 1 lb lean ground beef 454 grams
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cup marinara sauce 12 fl oz
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned) 8 fl oz
- 1½ tablespoons double-concentrated tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 ounces elbow macaroni, dry 170 grams
- grated Parm and fresh basil (for topping, optional)
Instructions
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1. Start a pot of water to boil on the stove. Cook the macaroni according to package directions and drain.
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2. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the oil and add the chopped onion and ground beef. Brown for 10–15 minutes, breaking up the meat until cooked through and the onion is soft.
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3. Stir in the garlic, marinara, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, basil, and oregano. Simmer about 10 minutes to meld flavors. Add the drained macaroni during the last 5 minutes and stir to combine.
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4. Serve topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Equipment
- Pot
- Dutch oven or large skillet
- Knife
Notes
💭 Expert Tips
This is an adaptable, calorie-dense comfort dish because pasta provides most of the bulk. Pair smaller portions with a side of non-starchy vegetables—such as a green salad or roasted vegetables—to add fiber and volume without many extra calories.
Nutrition estimates are for one serving and do not include optional toppings or side dishes.
nutrition info disclaimer
Recipes may not suit everyone’s dietary needs. Consult a registered dietitian or physician for personalized guidance. Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary with brands and ingredient choices.
Nutrition
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