Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is a hearty, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank. Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and a rich tomato-based broth, this stew is full of comforting flavors. It’s ideal for those busy days when you need an easy dinner that requires minimal effort. Just throw the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do all the work while you go about your day. This stew is filling, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef (Optional): In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat. This step is optional but adds extra flavor to the stew.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, add the browned ground beef (if pre-cooked), cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve: Once the stew is done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Poor Man’s Stew
- Browning the Beef: While browning the ground beef is optional, it adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the stew.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Make sure to cut the potatoes and carrots into evenly sized pieces so that they cook at the same rate.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking. A little extra salt or Worcestershire sauce can make a big difference.
Recipe Variations
- Add Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as kidney or white beans, for added protein and fiber.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or add more vegetables like bell peppers, celery, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spicy Stew: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes! You can use ground turkey, pork, or even ground chicken instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Poor Man’s Stew?
A: Absolutely! Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner. With tender potatoes, carrots, and a flavorful tomato-based broth, this stew is satisfying and full of rich flavors. The slow cooker makes it incredibly convenient, allowing you to enjoy a warm, homemade meal with minimal effort. Whether served on its own or with a side of bread, this stew is sure to warm you up and bring a smile to your face!