Slumgullion is one of those thrifty old-fashioned suppers that reminds folks how a handful of humble pantry staples can turn into something filling and comforting. This slow cooker version keeps that practical spirit alive by layering raw ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a few simple ingredients right into the crock, letting everything cook together into a saucy, beefy, family-style meal that feels right at home on a Midwestern table.This dish is hearty enough to serve all by itself, but it’s mighty good with buttered green beans, a simple lettuce salad, or a pan of warm cornbread for sopping up the tomatoey sauce. If you like a little contrast, dill pickles or a spoonful of cottage cheese on the side give a nice old-school supper touch, and iced tea or cold milk fit the meal just fine.Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Depression SlumgullionServings: 6Finished slumgullion plated in a bowlFinished slumgullion plated in a bowlIngredients1 pound ground beef2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni1 medium onion, finely chopped1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juicesMain ingredients for slumgullion arranged on a countertopMain ingredients for slumgullion arranged on a countertopDirections1. Lightly grease the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker. Crumble the raw ground beef into the bottom and spread it out evenly. Scatter the chopped onion over the beef, then pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the tomato sauce.Layered raw beef, onion, and tomatoes in a slow cookerLayered raw beef, onion, and tomatoes in a slow cooker2. Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni right over the top. Press the pasta down gently so most of it is covered by the moisture from the tomatoes and sauce. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice if your slow cooker runs hot, until the pasta is tender and the beef is fully cooked.Uncooked elbow macaroni added over the tomato and beef mixture in the slow cookerUncooked elbow macaroni added over the tomato and beef mixture in the slow cooker3. Stir everything together well once the macaroni is tender, breaking up the beef into small crumbles if needed. Let it sit uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes to thicken a bit before spooning into bowls and serving hot.Final plated bowl of slumgullion with simple sidesFinal plated bowl of slumgullion with simple sidesVariations & TipsCheesy finish: If you want a richer supper, stir in 1 to 2 cups of shredded cheddar during the last 10 minutes of cooking. It melts right into the sauce and gives the dish that old-fashioned hamburger casserole feeling.Slumgullion with melted cheddar cheese on topSlumgullion with melted cheddar cheese on topMoisture matters: Since slow cookers can vary, keep an eye on the pasta the first time you make this. If the mixture seems too dry before the macaroni softens, add a splash of water, just a few tablespoons at a time, so the noodles can finish cooking properly.Season it your way: Even though this is a true five-ingredient version, a pinch of salt, black pepper, or garlic powder at the table can wake up the flavors nicely. Folks who grew up with plain, practical meals may enjoy it just as it is, but there’s no harm in adjusting to your family’s taste.Make-ahead note: Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely for lunch. Add a spoonful of water before warming so the pasta loosens back up and the sauce turns silky again.
Dump uncooked elbow macaroni onto raw ground beef, together with 3 ingredients, into slow cooker for a comforting meal that disappears faster than anything else
