When winter settles in and the chill sets the mood for cozy meals, nothing beats a warm, filling stew. Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew has long been a go-to in many households, especially in the Midwest, because it brings together simple, affordable ingredients into a dish full of heart and flavor. Its charm lies in how accessible it is—using pantry staples that don’t require a special trip to the store—yet it delivers satisfying nourishment perfect for cold evenings. The slow cooker does most of the work, letting the flavors blend and the ingredients soften into a hearty, soul-soothing meal. Whether you’re managing a busy schedule or just want something comforting waiting when you get home, this stew fits the bill perfectly.
Serve it alongside crusty bread for dipping or a fresh side salad for balance. For a different take, spoon it over noodles or rice, and feel free to add toppings like sour cream or shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 large potatoes, diced
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Directions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- In the slow cooker, combine the cooked beef, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
- Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir well to mix.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until vegetables are tender.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Variations & Tips:
Try swapping ground beef with ground turkey or use cubed beef stew meat for a chunkier texture. Add crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy some heat. For added protein and fiber, stir in drained kidney beans or peas near the end. Toss in frozen green beans or corn during the last hour for extra veggies.
Nutrition and Dietary Information:
This stew is a well-balanced meal that combines protein from the beef with a variety of vegetables providing fiber and essential vitamins. The broth-based nature keeps it relatively light, while the potatoes add comforting carbohydrates for energy. Those watching sodium should monitor added salt and Worcestershire sauce amounts, and dairy toppings can be omitted or substituted for lactose intolerance. For a leaner version, ground turkey or a meat substitute works well without compromising flavor.
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