Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew Recipe

This Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is a budget-friendly, hearty meal made with ground beef, tender potatoes, carrots, and a flavorful tomato base. Easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, this stew cooks slowly in your crockpot, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a filling family dinner or an affordable meal to feed a crowd, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s the perfect slow cooker stew that can be customized to suit your taste.

This Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring ground beef, tender potatoes, carrots, and a savory tomato base, this easy recipe is both satisfying and budget-friendly. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the delicious aroma filling your home. A great meal to feed the whole family!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1.5 lbs (about 3) potatoes, diced large
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 oz can tomato paste
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, then set the beef aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the potatoes, slice the carrots, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic.
3. Mix the Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, and oregano until well combined.
4. Combine in Slow Cooker: Add the browned ground beef, chopped potatoes, carrots, onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Pour in the tomato paste mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add Water or Broth: Pour 2 cups of water or broth into the slow cooker and stir everything together. Make sure all ingredients are covered with liquid.
6. Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 7 hours. Keep the lid on to maintain the cooking temperature; opening it can extend the cooking time.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once done, serve hot. This stew pairs wonderfully with fresh bread for dipping or is even better topped with shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor!

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Tips

• Don’t lift the lid: To ensure the stew cooks properly and retains heat, avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
• For a thicker stew: You can mash a few of the potatoes in the stew to create a thicker consistency.
• Make ahead: This stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap ground beef: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.
• Vegetable alternatives: Feel free to replace the carrots and potatoes with other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or celery for a unique twist.
• Add beans: For extra protein, consider adding a can of drained beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, toward the end of the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker? Yes, you can cook this stew on high for 4 hours, but the low setting yields the best results and allows the flavors to develop more fully.

Can I use broth instead of water? Absolutely! Broth will add more flavor to the stew. Beef or vegetable broth is a great option.

How can I make this stew spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice up the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this stew with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
• Add a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the stew.
• Top the stew with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy finish.
• Pair with a refreshing glass of iced tea or your favorite beverage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender beef, potatoes, and carrots in a savory tomato base creates a satisfying dish that will feed the whole family without breaking the bank. Plus, with minimal prep time and the convenience of the slow cooker, it’s a perfect meal for busy days. The added versatility of the recipe makes it easy to customize, ensuring everyone will love it!