Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

 

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew: A Hearty, Budget-Friendly Classic

In a world where comfort food often comes with a hefty price tag, Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew proves that you don’t need a big budget to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal. This humble dish, packed with tender potatoes, carrots, and ground beef, is a longtime favorite among families looking for simplicity, flavor, and value.

It’s a meal that speaks to tradition—something you might imagine simmering away in your grandmother’s kitchen. But thanks to the slow cooker, this nostalgic comfort food fits seamlessly into today’s busy lifestyle.

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Why It’s Called "Poor Man’s Stew"

The name says it all: Poor Man’s Stew uses inexpensive, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a meal that feeds a crowd. Ground beef replaces pricier cuts of meat, and hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots provide substance and natural sweetness. It’s an ideal dish for stretching your dollar without sacrificing nutrition or taste.

But don’t let the name fool you. There’s nothing “poor” about the flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have.

• Set It and Forget It – The slow cooker does all the work.

• Family-Friendly – Mild flavors and soft textures make it great for all ages.

• One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup, maximum reward.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 3–4 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 1 onion, diced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)

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Instructions

1. Brown the Beef
   In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. This step enhances the flavor and texture.

2. Load the Slow Cooker
   Add the browned beef to your slow cooker along with the chopped potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.

3. Add Liquids and Seasonings
   Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, and season with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.

4. Cook Low and Slow
   Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until vegetables are fork-tender.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Give it a gentle stir before serving. Enjoy with crusty bread or warm biscuits for a complete meal.

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Tips for Success

• Meat Swap: Try ground turkey or lentils for a lighter or vegetarian version.

• Extra Veggies: Add green beans, peas, or corn in the last hour of cooking for extra color and nutrients.

• Make It Thick: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes gently with a fork before serving.

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Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a cold day, a throwback to simpler times, and a reminder that delicious food doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you're cooking for a family or meal-prepping for the week, this stew delivers every time.

So pull out that slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let this timeless dish bring comfort to your table.