This Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is a cozy and simple meal, perfect for busy days. With beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmering together, it’s hearty and filling!
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love tossing everything into the pot and letting it cook while I relax. Plus, the leftovers are just as good, if not better! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This adds great flavor and heartiness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat like lentils or beans for a vegetarian twist!
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their texture. If you want to cut carbs, swap in cauliflower or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color. If you don’t have fresh ones, frozen carrots work fine. Just toss them in towards the end of cooking to prevent them from getting mushy.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought works great too. For a lighter option, use vegetable broth, or for some zing, try adding a little red wine or vinegar!
How Do I Make Sure My Stew is Tender and Tasty?
The key to making a great stew is patience. Cooking it low and slow allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are some tips to nail that perfect consistency:
- Brown the ground beef well to develop richness in flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Use the right water-to-broth ratio. Too much broth can dilute flavors, so keep it balanced.
- If you can, stir occasionally while cooking, particularly right before adding that thickening slurry, to ensure even heat distribution.
- Taste and adjust! Stews can vary; don’t be shy to add a dash more salt or herbs if needed before serving.
Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into chunks
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 cup water (for flour slurry, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes for prep time and then you can let it cook in the crock pot for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for setting it and forgetting it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s fully browned. Make sure to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to your crock pot.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In the same crock pot, add the diced potatoes, carrot chunks, and chopped onion to the browned beef. This mixture will create a hearty base for your stew.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce over the meat and veggies. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried basil, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it). Stir well once more!
4. Set It and Forget It:
Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully, and the veggies will become tender.
5. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you like a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before serving, mix the flour with the water to make a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crock pot and continue cooking for the remaining time to allow it to thicken up.
6. Final Touches:
Once the stew is cooked and the vegetables are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is ready to be served! Enjoy it hot with some fresh bread on the side or over a bed of rice for a cozy meal.
Enjoy your comforting and easy Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew!
Can I Use Different Meats for This Stew?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the classic choice, you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even diced beef stew cubes. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using lentils or mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No problem! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth. For a richer flavor, use a mixture of water and soy sauce or a splash of red wine in addition to the water.
Can I Freeze Leftover Stew?
Yes, leftover stew freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftover Stew?
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.