Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is the definition of comfort food made simple — hearty, affordable, and deeply satisfying. Built from humble pantry staples and budget-friendly ingredients, this stew transforms everyday vegetables and ground beef into a rich, slow-simmered meal bursting with flavor.

Historically, dishes like Poor Man’s Stew emerged from times when families needed to stretch ingredients while still creating nourishing, filling meals. Using root vegetables, broth, and small amounts of meat, home cooks developed recipes that were economical yet comforting — a tradition that continues today in kitchens around the world.

Prepared in the slow cooker, this stew allows flavors to meld beautifully over hours of gentle cooking. The potatoes become tender, carrots soften into sweet bites, and the beef infuses the broth with savory richness. Tomato paste adds depth, Worcestershire sauce brings umami complexity, and herbs create a balanced, homey aroma.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Easy slow cooker preparation
• Hearty and filling meal
• Perfect for meal prep
• Family-friendly comfort food
• Freezer-friendly leftovers
• Minimal hands-on cooking

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Ground beef	1 lb (450 g)	Main protein
Potatoes	4 medium, diced	Hearty base
Carrots	3 medium, sliced	Natural sweetness
Onion	1 small, chopped	Aromatic depth
Garlic	2 cloves, minced	Flavor booster
Diced tomatoes	1 can (14.5 oz)	Acidity and richness
Beef broth	2 cups	Liquid base
Frozen peas	1 cup (optional)	Color and sweetness
Tomato paste	2 tbsp	Concentrated flavor
Dried thyme	1 tsp	Earthy herb note
Paprika	1 tsp	Warm spice
Dried oregano	½ tsp	Herbal balance
Salt	1 tsp	Seasoning
Black pepper	½ tsp	Mild heat
Worcestershire sauce	1 tbsp	Umami depth
Olive oil	1 tbsp	Browning beef

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease. Browning enhances flavor but can be skipped if needed.

2. Load the Slow Cooker

Add potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. Spoon cooked beef over vegetables.

3. Add Liquids

Stir in diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, and beef broth.

4. Season

Add thyme, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently.

5. Cook Low & Slow

• LOW: 7–8 hours
• HIGH: 4–5 hours

Stew is ready when vegetables are fork-tender and flavors meld together.

6. Finish

Stir in frozen peas during the last 15 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.

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Serving Suggestions

• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Biscuits or cornbread
• Over mashed potatoes
• With buttered rice
• With fresh parsley garnish

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Cooking Tips

• Cut vegetables evenly for uniform cooking
• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy texture
• Add splash of cream for richer broth
• Deglaze skillet after browning beef for extra flavor
• Adjust broth amount for thicker or thinner stew

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Flavor Variations

• Add mushrooms for earthy flavor
• Include celery for classic stew profile
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey
• Add chili flakes for mild heat
• Use smoked paprika for deeper flavor

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Storage & Meal Prep

• Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Freeze up to 3 months
• Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave
• Add broth when reheating if thickened

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Nutritional Benefits

This stew provides protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals from vegetables while remaining budget-conscious. Potatoes offer potassium, carrots provide beta-carotene, and peas add plant-based protein.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip browning the beef?

Yes, but browning adds richer flavor.

How do I thicken the stew?

Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with water and stir during final cooking stage.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes — substitute beans or lentils and vegetable broth.

Can I cook overnight?

Yes, cook on LOW for best texture and flavor development.

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Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew proves that simple ingredients can create deeply comforting meals. Affordable, nourishing, and effortless, this recipe delivers a warm bowl of homestyle goodness perfect for busy days, cozy nights, and family dinners.