This old-fashioned slow cooker slumgullion is simple, hearty, and made with just a few basic ingredients. Ground beef, onions, tomato sauce, and macaroni cook into a rich, cozy dinner that tastes like pure comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4–5 hours
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
- 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Up to 1 cup water, optional
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until no longer pink.
Drain excess grease.
Add the onion and cook 3–5 more minutes until softened.
Step 2: Slow Cook
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
Add:
- Tomato sauce
- Salt
- Pepper
- Water, if needed
Stir well.
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Step 3: Add the Macaroni
About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in the dry elbow macaroni.
Make sure the pasta is fully covered in the sauce.
Cook on HIGH until the noodles are tender.
Step 4: Serve
Stir once more and spoon into bowls while hot.
Tips
- Add shredded cheddar before serving
- A pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning adds extra flavor
- Leftovers taste even better the next day
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
