Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Slumgullion (Hearty Old-Fashioned Beef & Macaroni)

There’s something incredibly comforting about recipes that come straight from family kitchens and simpler times. This Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Slumgullion is exactly that kind of meal. I’m always grateful for these old-fashioned dishes that stretch a few pantry staples into something warm, filling, and satisfying. My grandpa used to talk about meals like this from the Depression era—simple ingredients simmered slowly until they turned into a big pot of cozy comfort food.

This version keeps that same spirit alive. With just ground beef, onion, tomato sauce, and elbow macaroni, the slow cooker transforms everyday ingredients into a rich, hearty dinner. As it cooks, the house fills with that nostalgic smell that makes everyone wander into the kitchen asking when dinner will be ready!

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Recipe Overview

What Is Slumgullion?

Slumgullion is a traditional American comfort food dish made with beef, pasta, and tomato sauce. It became popular during hard economic times because it was inexpensive, filling, and easy to make with pantry ingredients.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• Only 4 main ingredients

• Budget-friendly and filling

• Perfect for busy weeknights

• Family and kid approved

• Easy slow cooker meal

• Great for leftovers

What It Tastes Like

This dish tastes like a cross between beefy macaroni and homemade hamburger helper. The tomato sauce simmers with the beef and onions to create a rich savory base, while the macaroni absorbs the flavor and becomes tender and comforting.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Uses simple pantry staples

• Feeds a crowd easily

• Minimal preparation required

• Perfect for meal prep

• Freezer-friendly

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds ground beef (80–90% lean)

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce

• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni

Optional Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon salt, to taste

• ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste

• Up to 1 cup water for desired consistency

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large skillet

• Slow cooker (crockpot)

• Wooden spoon

• Measuring cups

• Knife and cutting board

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

This recipe is easy to adjust depending on what you have on hand.

Optional Additions

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Garlic powder

• Italian seasoning

• Bell peppers

• Worcestershire sauce

Substitutions

• Ground turkey instead of beef

• Rotini or shell pasta instead of macaroni

• Crushed tomatoes instead of tomato sauce

How to Make Slow Cooker Slumgullion

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