There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, hearty stew that doesn’t cost a fortune to make. Poor Man’s Stew is the kind of recipe that has stood the test of time because it delivers flavor, nourishment, and comfort without fancy ingredients or complicated steps. It’s a dish that proves great meals can come from humble beginnings—using pantry basics, everyday vegetables, and ground beef to create something special.
This version is made in a slow cooker, allowing all the ingredients to meld into a rich and filling stew that tastes like it’s been simmering on a wood stove all day. Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is ideal for busy households or anyone looking to make the most of their grocery budget. The vegetables become tender, the broth rich and savory, and the meat perfectly seasoned. It’s the type of meal that brings people together around the table with minimal effort but maximum comfort. You can even tweak it with what you have on hand—think extra spices, a splash of vinegar, or beans for added fiber. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, this stew is truly a kitchen classic.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
2 lbs ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
4 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 beef bouillon cubes
2 cups hot water
4 drops Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer the meat to your slow cooker.
Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and chopped onion to the slow cooker.
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato paste and hot water until smooth. Add the bouillon cubes and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until dissolved.
Pour the seasoned liquid over the contents of the slow cooker and stir to combine everything evenly. Add a bit more hot water if needed to ensure all ingredients are covered.
Cover and cook on low for 7 hours.
Optional: To thicken the stew, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry and stir it into the stew during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional and Dietary Notes
This stew offers a balanced combination of protein from the ground beef and essential vitamins from the potatoes, carrots, and onion. The broth, enriched with tomato paste and bouillon, provides depth of flavor while keeping the dish affordable. It is filling and family-friendly, though those watching sodium or carbs might consider adjusting the seasoning or serving size. For a lighter version, use lean ground beef or even ground turkey, and consider low-sodium bouillon to reduce salt content.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Tried this hearty Poor Man’s Stew? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Your feedback keeps recipes like this alive and loved. Share your tips, tweaks, or serving suggestions in the comments—and pass it along to friends and family who appreciate a delicious, budget-friendly meal.