If there’s one recipe that makes me feel like I’m wrapping my family in a cozy, edible blanket, it’s Slow Cooker Slumgullion. This comforting dish, often affectionately referred to as American goulash, is hearty, packed with flavor, and ridiculously easy to make. The best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work while your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma of simmering tomatoes, spices, and tender pasta.

Slow Cooker Slumgullion (goulash) Recipe

I first made this recipe on a chilly fall afternoon when life was just a little too chaotic. Between juggling work, errands, and family, I needed something that was filling, easy, and comforting. A quick search through my pantry led to what I jokingly called “the kitchen cleanout meal.” But as soon as I took that first cheesy, savory bite, I knew it was much more than a last-minute dinner. It’s been on our weekly rotation ever since!

A little backstory on Slumgullion

Slumgullion has humble roots as a frugal dish made with pantry staples, often whipped up during tough times when families had to make the most of what they had. While the word itself might make you pause (it’s said to have originated in the 19th century and referred to a watery stew), the modern version has evolved into a thick, satisfying pasta dish. Similar to Hungarian goulash, but with an all-American twist, this dish features ground meat, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni—all simmered together for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Let’s talk ingredients: hearty, flexible, and oh-so-good

Ground turkey: The base protein that keeps this dish hearty and filling. You can substitute it with ground beef or chicken if you prefer. I find turkey gives it a lighter feel without sacrificing flavor.
Green bell pepper and onion: These add a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that balances the savory elements. If you’re out, try red bell peppers or even diced zucchini.
Canned diced tomatoes: These provide that tangy tomato backbone. Opt for fire-roasted for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
Beef broth: It deepens the flavor. If you’re vegetarian, swap it with veggie broth, and it still works beautifully.
Tomato paste: The unsung hero of the recipe—it intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Spices and seasonings: Paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper give this dish its signature warmth and slight earthiness. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat.
Dry elbow macaroni: The pasta soaks up all the delicious juices and ties everything together. If you’re gluten-free, use your favorite GF pasta.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The final indulgent touch! You can also experiment with mozzarella or even a Mexican cheese blend for fun variations.

Kitchen gear: tools that make it simple

You don’t need much to make this dish shine, but here’s what helps:

Slow cooker: The star of the show. A 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe.
Mixing spoon: A sturdy one for combining everything and stirring in the pasta.
Cheese grater: If you’re shredding your own cheddar. (Pre-shredded works too, but freshly grated melts better!)
Knife and cutting board: For dicing those veggies.

No slow cooker? No problem. You can adapt this recipe to a Dutch oven or large pot and simmer it on the stove.

Step-by-step: my foolproof method for success

Combine the ingredients: Toss the ground turkey, diced green bell pepper, onion, canned tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Give everything a quick stir to combine.
Tip: If your turkey is still partially frozen, it’s okay! It’ll cook down beautifully.
Set and forget: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This is where the magic happens—your slow cooker will blend all the flavors together while you go about your day.
Add the pasta: About 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, stir in the dry elbow macaroni. Make sure to push the pasta down so it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook until the noodles are tender.
Watch out: Resist the urge to overcook the pasta—it’ll turn mushy!
Cheese, please: Once the pasta is cooked, stir everything together, then top the dish with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover for another 5 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt into gooey perfection.
Serve and enjoy: Dish into bowls, grab a fork, and savor the warm, cheesy deliciousness!

Fun ways to customize this dish

Make it healthier: Swap the macaroni for whole wheat or chickpea pasta. Add more veggies like diced carrots, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Vegan-friendly: Replace the turkey with plant-based ground meat, use veggie broth, and top with vegan cheese.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a splash of hot sauce for a bolder flavor.
Seasonal twists: In the summer, throw in some fresh corn or zucchini. In winter, add hearty greens like kale or Swiss chard.
International spin: Try adding a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist, or swap the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and add black beans for a Tex-Mex vibe.

Serving and presentation ideas

I love serving this dish in wide, shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. If you’re hosting, pair it with a crusty loaf of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an extra-special touch, serve it family-style right out of the slow cooker. There’s something about that bubbling pot of goodness on the table that feels so welcoming.

Drink pairings to complement the flavors

This dish pairs beautifully with a medium-bodied red wine, like a Merlot or Pinot Noir. Prefer beer? A light amber ale or even a crisp lager works wonders. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a twist of lime or a spiced apple cider (especially in cooler months) is a refreshing choice.

Storing and reheating tips

Slumgullion is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop a portion in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if needed. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure the pasta is slightly undercooked if you plan to freeze, so it doesn’t turn mushy upon reheating.

Scaling the recipe for any crowd

This recipe serves about 6, but it’s easy to double or halve depending on your needs. If you’re doubling, make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra volume. When scaling down, keep an eye on the cooking time—it may cook a bit faster with smaller quantities.

Encouragement to give it a go

There’s nothing like the satisfaction of scooping a cheesy, hearty bowl of Slumgullion onto your plate and knowing you’ve created something comforting and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a no-fuss weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Don’t be afraid to make it your own—experiment with flavors, switch up the ingredients, and most importantly, enjoy every bite.

FAQs

1. Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the turkey in a large pot, then add the rest of the ingredients (except the pasta and cheese). Simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, before adding the pasta.

2. What’s the best way to prevent mushy pasta?
Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Check it often to avoid overcooking.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda would work well. Just choose a cheese that melts smoothly.

4. How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free elbow macaroni or any short pasta you love. Double-check your beef broth to ensure it’s gluten-free too.

5. Is it okay to freeze this dish?
Yes! Just undercook the pasta slightly if you’re planning to freeze it. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Slow Cooker Slumgullion (goulash) Recipe