Warm up your kitchen and soul with this budget-friendly, comforting dish. Using simple, affordable ingredients, this stew is packed with hearty flavors and is perfect for cold winter days. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, leaving you with a rich and savory meal ready to enjoy when you need it most.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Affordable Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like potatoes, carrots, and ground beef.
Hands-Off Cooking: Let your slow cooker handle the magic while you focus on your day.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your taste with substitutions and add-ins.
Comfort Food Classic: Hearty, satisfying, and perfect with a slice of crusty bread.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
1 lb ground beef
4 large potatoes, diced
4 carrots, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
How to Make Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink.
Drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
Step 2: Prep the Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, layer the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
Add the browned ground beef on top.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasoning
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice).
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Cook
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the vegetables are tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the rich broth.
Serve over rice or egg noodles for an even heartier meal.
Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for added creaminess.
Variations & Tips
Protein Options:
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Use cubed beef stew meat for a chunkier, more traditional texture.
Add Vegetables:
Stir in a can of drained kidney beans, peas, or frozen green beans during the last hour of cooking.
Add frozen corn for a touch of sweetness.
Spice It Up:
Sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a kick of heat.
Thickening the Broth:
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Simmer on low heat for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before (excluding the broth). In the morning, add the broth and turn on the slow cooker.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes! Substitute the canned diced tomatoes with 2 cups of peeled and chopped fresh tomatoes.
Timing and Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours
Total Time: 6–8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Why This Recipe Works
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew brings together simple ingredients in the best way possible. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making the vegetables tender and the broth deeply savory. It’s the perfect mix of hearty and nutritious—a meal that tastes like it took all day to prepare, with minimal effort from you.
Enjoy this hearty, budget-friendly stew on chilly evenings and let it warm you from the inside out! Pair it with your favorite side dish for a complete and satisfying dinner.