Slow Cooker Slumgullion (goulash) Recipe

You know those recipes that just feel like a warm hug in a bowl? That’s exactly what this slow cooker slumgullion (or American goulash) is all about. It’s simple, hearty, and ridiculously satisfying—a dish that has been on my dinner rotation for years. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re just craving something cozy, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s all done in the slow cooker, which means minimal effort and maximum reward. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

this RECIPE

A memory of family dinners

Growing up, my mom used to whip up something similar to this, though we didn’t call it “slumgullion” back then. She just called it goulash, and it was a magical mix of whatever we had in the fridge and pantry. I remember coming home from school, the smell of tomatoes and spices filling the kitchen, and hearing that familiar bubbling sound from the pot on the stove. It wasn’t fancy, but it didn’t need to be—it was delicious, comforting, and made with love. Now that I’ve adapted it for the slow cooker, it’s even easier to capture that same magic in my own kitchen, with the added bonus of letting it simmer all day while I go about my business.

What’s in a name? The story of slumgullion

Slumgullion may not be the most glamorous name for a dish, but its origins are as humble and resourceful as the meal itself. Traditionally, slumgullion was a stew or hash made from simple, inexpensive ingredients—perfect for feeding a hungry family. While the name has evolved over time, the essence of the dish remains the same: a hearty, one-pot wonder that stretches ingredients and satisfies everyone at the table. These days, it’s often referred to as American goulash, though it doesn’t bear much resemblance to its Hungarian namesake. Instead, it’s a distinctly American creation, featuring ground meat, pasta, and a rich tomato base.

The heart of the recipe: key ingredients

• Ground turkey: This is the base of the dish, making it hearty and packed with protein. If you prefer, you can swap it out for ground beef or even ground chicken. For a meatless option, crumbled tofu or plant-based ground “meat” works great, too.
• Green bell pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re not a fan of green peppers, red or yellow peppers work just as well.
• Onion: Essential for building flavor. A yellow onion works perfectly, but you could also use red onion if that’s what you have on hand.
• Diced tomatoes and tomato paste: These give the dish its rich, tangy tomato base. Make sure to use the canned tomatoes with juices for extra moisture.
• Beef broth: Adds depth to the sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, swap this out for vegetable broth.
• Elbow macaroni: Classic and nostalgic, but you can use any small pasta you like—shells, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty topping that ties everything together. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar.

Slow cooker essentials: what you’ll need

For this recipe, a slow cooker is your best friend. I use a 6-quart model, which is just the right size to hold all the ingredients. If you don’t have a slow cooker, don’t worry! You can adapt this recipe for a Dutch oven or large stockpot on the stovetop—just simmer it low and slow for a few hours. Beyond that, you’ll need a sturdy spoon for stirring and a good chef’s knife for chopping the veggies. Oh, and don’t forget a cheese grater if you’re shredding the cheddar yourself. (Pro tip: freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shreds!)

Step-by-step: how to make slow cooker slumgullion

1. Start with the base ingredients
   Add your ground turkey, diced green bell pepper, onion, canned tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, tomato paste, and seasonings—paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper—to your slow cooker. Give it a quick stir to combine everything.Tip: If you have time, browning the ground turkey and sautéing the onion before adding them to the slow cooker adds an extra layer of flavor. But it’s totally optional!
2. Set it and forget it
   Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This step is perfect for busy days—you can go to work, run errands, or even sneak in a nap while your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices.
3. Add the pasta
   About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in your dry elbow macaroni. Cover again and let it cook until the pasta is tender.Pro tip: Keep an eye on the pasta to make sure it doesn’t overcook and turn mushy. If you’re around, give it a quick stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
4. Cheese, please!
   Once the pasta is cooked, stir the mixture well, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the slow cooker again and let it sit for about 5 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt into gooey perfection.
5. Serve and enjoy
   Spoon the slumgullion into bowls, grab a fork, and dig in! It’s warm, comforting, and exactly what you need on a chilly evening.

Ways to make it your own

• Vegetarian version: Swap out the ground turkey for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Seasonal veggies: Toss in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to sneak in some extra veggies.
• Cheese swaps: Try a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for an Italian-inspired version.
• Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your beef broth is gluten-free as well.

How to serve and plate it up

For a casual family dinner, serve the slumgullion straight from the slow cooker—let everyone help themselves. If you’re feeling fancy, scoop it into individual bowls and top each one with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad to balance out the richness.

The perfect drink pairing

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Merlot or Zinfandel. If you’re not a wine drinker, a cold amber ale works just as well. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a tall glass of iced tea.

Storing and reheating leftovers

Slumgullion stores wonderfully, making it a great meal prep option. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, then warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Scaling the recipe up or down

Need to feed a crowd? Double the ingredients, but be sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold everything. For a smaller batch, simply halve the recipe. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly when scaling, so check your pasta for doneness toward the end.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any small pasta shape, like shells or penne, will work just fine.

2. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! Prepare the dish as directed, but leave out the pasta. Add the pasta when reheating to avoid it becoming too soft.

3. Can I freeze this?
Definitely. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

4. What’s the best cheese for topping?
Cheddar is my go-to, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses also work beautifully.

5. How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and keep an eye on it. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

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