Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Slumgullion
This easy Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Slumgullion combines ground beef, onion, tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni in a hearty crockpot dinner. It is budget-friendly, family-friendly, and serves about 6.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef 80–90% lean
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 2 cans 15 ounces each tomato sauce
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon salt optional, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper optional, to taste
- 1 cup water optional, as needed for desired consistency
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the ground beef until well browned and no pink remains, about 8–10 minutes. Carefully spoon off most of the excess grease.
- Soften the onion: Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3–5 minutes until the onion begins to soften.
- Load the slow cooker: Transfer the beef and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir everything together. If you prefer a saucier consistency, stir in up to 1 cup of water.
- Season and slow cook: Add salt and black pepper to taste. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
- Add the macaroni: About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in the dry elbow macaroni. Ensure the noodles are submerged in the liquid. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of extra water.
- Finish cooking: Cover and cook on HIGH for 25–35 minutes, stirring once halfway through. The slumgullion is ready when the macaroni is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Give the dish a final stir, adjust seasonings if necessary, and serve hot.
Notes
- Pasta Timing: Do not add the pasta at the beginning of the cooking time, or it will turn to mush.
- Variations: Feel free to stir in a handful of shredded cheddar cheese or a dash of Italian seasoning right before serving for extra flavor.