Sometimes, the best meals don’t come from gourmet kitchens or expensive grocery lists—they come from humble beginnings, thoughtful combinations, and a whole lot of heart. Poor Man’s Stew is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something warm, satisfying, and surprisingly flavorful. This recipe draws inspiration from times when stretching the family budget meant getting creative with affordable staples like ground beef, potatoes, and carrots. Yet the result is far from ordinary—it’s cozy, hearty, and always hits the spot.
What makes this stew so timeless is its adaptability. You can prepare it while managing a busy schedule, and it only takes a few minutes of prep before your slow cooker does the rest. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on both taste and practicality. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel cared for—with each bite steeped in warmth and old-fashioned goodness.
Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Or simply enjoy it as is: rustic, filling, and undeniably comforting.
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 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 over medium heat, then transfer it to your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and onion into the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano.
- In a bowl, mix the tomato paste with hot water until smooth. Add the bouillon cubes and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Pour this mixture over the contents of the slow cooker.
- Gently stir all the ingredients to combine evenly. Add a bit more hot water if needed to ensure the vegetables are mostly covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 hours.
- (Optional) If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional and Dietary Insights
This stew is rich in protein from the beef and provides essential vitamins and minerals from the carrots and potatoes. The tomato paste adds antioxidants like lycopene, while the broth offers comforting warmth and hydration. For those watching their sodium intake, using low-sodium bouillon cubes and tomato paste can be a smart adjustment. It’s naturally gluten-free if you ensure your bouillon and Worcestershire sauce are safe. For a lower-fat version, try using lean ground beef or even ground turkey.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If this hearty stew warmed your heart and filled your belly, why not spread the love? Share this recipe with friends or leave a comment with your own twist or favorite add-ins. Your feedback keeps the recipe community thriving and inspires others to try something new.