Keto Slumgullion: The Comfort Food You Didn’t Know You Needed

Picture this: You’re in your kitchen, ready to whip up something warm, hearty, and just downright satisfying. You’ve got the hunger of a lion and the carb limit of a keto pro. What do you make? Enter Keto Slumgullion—a twist on classic American goulash that’s low-carb, easy to make, and tastes like a hug in a bowl.

Now, before you start thinking this is some fancy dish with a million steps, let me assure you—it’s not. This is a one-pot wonder, perfect for busy evenings when all you want is good food without a hassle. Grab an apron, and let’s do this together.

What’s Slumgullion Anyway?

First things first, let’s clear up the name. Slumgullion is an old-school term for a humble stew. Think of it as a no-fuss, throw-what-you’ve-got-in-the-pot type of meal. Classic American goulash usually includes pasta, ground beef, and a tomato-based sauce. For our keto version, we’re swapping out the carbs for ingredients that’ll keep you on track without skimping on flavor.

The Star Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to get started. I’ll break it down so you know exactly why each ingredient matters:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): The base of any good slumgullion. Beef adds richness and keeps you full for hours. If you want something leaner, turkey or ground chicken works too.
• Onion (1 small, diced): A little sweetness and depth to balance the tanginess of the tomatoes.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Because no stew should go without garlic. Period.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): These bring the heart of the dish—juicy, tangy, and perfect for stews.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies the flavor. This is like a flavor bomb in a small package.
• Beef Broth (2 cups): Adds richness and gives the dish that stew-like consistency.
• Bell Peppers (1 cup, diced): For a pop of color and crunch. Use red, green, yellow—whatever’s hanging out in your fridge.
• Cauliflower Rice (2 cups): Our low-carb stand-in for pasta. It soaks up all the goodness without adding carbs.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Adds umami—a fancy word for savory deliciousness.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Smoky, sweet, or spicy—pick the type you like best.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A shortcut to herby flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): The finishing touch. Cheese makes everything better.

Let’s Get Cooking

Alright, grab a big pot and turn up the heat. I’ll guide you through this step-by-step, so there’s no guesswork.

Step 1: Sizzle the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Let it cook until it’s nicely browned. You want those little crispy bits—that’s where the flavor lives. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess grease (but leave a bit if you like things rich).

Step 2: Add Your Aromatics

Throw in your diced onion and minced garlic. Stir it around and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion turns soft and the garlic smells so good you start dancing in your kitchen.

Step 3: Build the Base

Now, stir in the tomato paste. This step is key! Cook it for about a minute to wake up all that concentrated tomato goodness. Then, toss in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir.

Step 4: Bring in the Veggies

Add your diced bell peppers and cauliflower rice. Stir them in so everything is coated in that rich, savory sauce. Lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This is where the magic happens. The flavors mingle, the cauliflower softens, and your house starts smelling like a cozy little bistro.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the top and cover the pot with a lid. Let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, glorious layer. Want extra cheese? No judgment—go for it.

Tips for Perfect Keto Slumgullion

• Use Fresh Herbs if You’ve Got ’Em: A handful of fresh parsley or basil on top can make this dish feel extra special.
• Make It Spicy: Like a little heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
• Batch Cooking Hero: This dish reheats like a dream, so double the recipe if you want leftovers. Perfect for meal prep!
• Protein Swap: Ground turkey or pork works just as well if you’re not in a beef mood.

Why This Recipe Works on Keto

This slumgullion is loaded with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The cauliflower rice is a genius swap for traditional pasta or rice—it keeps your carb count low while adding texture. Plus, the cheese and beef broth bring richness without any sneaky sugar or hidden carbs.

Serving Suggestions

This slumgullion is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re feeling fancy, pair it with:

• A crisp green salad with olive oil and vinegar.
• Keto-friendly garlic bread (look for a recipe that uses almond or coconut flour).
• Steamed broccoli or green beans for extra veggies.

Let’s Talk Leftovers

The best part about this dish? It’s even better the next day. The flavors deepen overnight, making it the perfect make-ahead meal. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Why You’ll Love Keto Slumgullion

This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a go-to comfort dish that’s easy, affordable, and perfect for feeding the whole family. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about making something you’ll actually want to eat, again and again.

So, the next time you’re craving something warm and filling, give this Keto Slumgullion a try. I promise, it’s one of those meals that’ll quickly become a regular in your kitchen. And hey, if you’ve got questions while you’re cooking, just imagine me standing there with a spatula in hand, ready to cheer you on.

That’s it! Now go enjoy your keto masterpiece. And don’t forget to share your creations—you know your friends will want the recipe once they see your bowl of cheesy, meaty goodness.

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