Poor Man’s Stew Recipe – A Hearty, Budget-Friendly Classic
This dish may be called Poor Man’s Stew, but you’ll feel truly rich when you taste it! Packed with ground beef, hearty potatoes, sweet carrots, and a flavorful broth, this slow cooker classic is simple, affordable, and absolutely comforting. Perfect for cold nights, busy families, or anyone who loves wholesome one-pot meals, this stew proves that comfort food doesn’t need to cost a fortune.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable pantry ingredients.
-
Slow cooker convenience – Just toss everything in and let it simmer.
-
Nutritious & filling – Packed with protein, vegetables, and hearty potatoes.
-
Customizable – Easy to adapt with different meats, beans, or veggies.
Ingredients for Poor Man’s Stew
Here’s what you’ll need to make this satisfying stew:
-
1 lb ground beef – Adds rich flavor and hearty protein.
-
4 large potatoes, diced – The base starch that makes this stew filling.
-
4 carrots, sliced – Bring natural sweetness and color.
-
1 onion, chopped – Adds depth and savory notes.
-
3 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts flavor with a warm, aromatic kick.
-
2 cups beef broth – The flavorful liquid that ties the stew together.
-
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds tang and body to the broth.
-
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Infuses smoky, savory richness.
-
1 tsp salt – Balances and enhances flavors.
-
½ tsp black pepper – A touch of mild heat.
-
1 tsp dried thyme – Earthy, herbaceous flavor that elevates the stew.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
-
Heat a skillet over medium heat.
-
Add ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink.
-
Drain excess fat to keep the stew from being greasy.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
-
In the slow cooker, combine the browned beef, diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and garlic.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
-
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with juices).
-
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme.
-
Mix gently to combine.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
-
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
-
The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors well blended.
Step 5: Taste & Serve
-
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasoning if needed.
-
Ladle into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or dinner rolls.
Variations & Tips
-
Switch the protein – Use ground turkey for a leaner option or beef stew meat for chunkier texture.
-
Add beans – Stir in kidney beans, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition.
-
Boost flavor – Add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
-
Make it thicker – Mash some of the potatoes into the broth during the last hour of cooking.
What to Serve with Poor Man’s Stew
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with:
-
Buttery dinner rolls or cornbread for soaking up the broth.
-
Fresh green salad for a lighter side.
-
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
Storage & Reheating
-
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
-
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Though it’s called Poor Man’s Stew, the rich flavors and hearty ingredients make this dish feel anything but poor. Affordable, comforting, and easy to prepare, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a make-ahead freezer meal, this stew is sure to satisfy.