Slumgullion is a hearty dish that dates back to pioneer times. Originally a stew made from the leftovers or inexpensive ingredients available, its charm lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Over the years, many variations have come up, but at its core, Slumgullion is a meat and pasta concoction that warms the soul. It's perfect for those chilly evenings when you're craving comfort food.
With just a few common ingredients, you can whip up a dish that's both filling and delicious. Dive into this recipe and explore the rustic charm of Slumgullion!
Why This Recipe Works
Economical & Resourceful: One of the greatest advantages of Slumgullion is its ability to transform yesterday's leftovers into a fresh, delightful meal. This not only helps reduce waste but also makes it incredibly budget-friendly. Whether you've got some leftover meat, vegetables, or pasta, they can all find a home in a pot of Slumgullion. It's a dish that's forgiving in its nature, making it perfect for those nights when you're not sure what to cook.
Comfort & Versatility: There's something universally comforting about a pot of simmering, flavorful stew, and Slumgullion fits that bill perfectly. But what truly makes it stand out is its versatility. Depending on the ingredients at hand, every Slumgullion can be a unique culinary experience. Want it spicy? Throw in some chili. Craving some veggies? Toss in bell peppers or zucchini. The possibilities are endless, making Slumgullion a canvas for your culinary creativity.
Ingredients
Ground beef - A flavorful meat that forms the base of the dish. Can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives.
Elbow macaroni - A type of pasta with a curved shape, ideal for catching the sauce. Can substitute with penne or fusilli if needed.
Canned diced tomatoes - Provides moisture and tang. If you don’t have canned, you can use fresh diced tomatoes, but they might need a longer cooking time to soften and meld.
Onions - Adds sweetness and depth to the dish. Yellow or white onions work best. Can substitute with shallots.
Bell peppers -Adds color and a mild sweet flavor. Can substitute with zucchini or omit if preferred.
Tips
- Brown the beef thoroughly for a deeper flavor.
- Undercook the pasta by 1-2 minutes as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or peas for added nutrition.
- Seasoning matters. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated for up to 3 days.
How to Serve
Slumgullion is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. It's hearty, warming, and fills you up on those cooler days or when you need comfort food.
- Serve with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Accompany it with garlic bread, which complements the tomato-based sauce perfectly.
- For a unique touch, serve the slumgullion inside bell pepper halves as stuffed peppers.
Similar Recipes
Slumgullion
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 can 14.5-ounce diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- Salt pepper, and optional seasonings to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but remove from heat 1-2 minutes earlier. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened.
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, with their juice, and stir.
- Mix in the drained macaroni and season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you desire.
- Let simmer for 5-10 minutes for flavors to meld, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
- Brown the beef thoroughly for a deeper flavor.
- Undercook the pasta by 1-2 minutes as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or peas for added nutrition.
- Seasoning matters. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated for up to 3 days.