This Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is a cozy dish packed with veggies, potatoes, and meat. It’s perfect for a busy day as it cooks slowly while you go about your activities!
Throw in all the ingredients, set your Crock Pot, and let it do its magic. I love coming home to that hearty smell! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. 🥔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the stew. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or mushrooms instead!
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture. If you don’t have fresh, frozen carrots work fine. You can also mix in other veggies like peas or green beans if you like.
Potatoes: I recommend russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creaminess. Sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative for a different flavor profile.
Beef Broth: This gives the stew its rich base. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. If you’re short on broth, water works in a pinch, too.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Stew?
Building a flavor base is key for a tasty stew. Start by browning the ground beef; this adds depth. Don’t skip the browning step! It creates a rich, meaty flavor.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—allow the meat to brown properly.
- Mix in your spices well with the liquid ingredients for even flavor distribution.
Lastly, let it cook patiently. Slow cooking melds the flavors beautifully, so resist the urge to rush and enjoy that wonderful aroma as it fills your kitchen!
Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Thickening (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty stew takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can cook it on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just set your Crock Pot and let it work its magic while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally. This step adds great flavor to your stew! Once browned, drain any excess fat.
2. Assemble the Ingredients:
Now, grab your Crock Pot. Place the browned ground beef at the bottom. Then, add in the chopped carrots, potatoes, diced onion, and minced garlic. Spread everything out evenly so the flavors can meld beautifully.
3. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined. This will be the flavorful liquid that brings everything together!
4. Combine and Cook:
Pour the sauce mixture over the meat and vegetables in the Crock Pot. Make sure everything is coated nicely. Cover the pot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the veggies are tender and the stew smells amazing!
5. Thicken the Stew (Optional):
If you like a thicker stew, mix the flour and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Once your cooking time is up, stir the slurry into the stew and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the stew is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme if you like. Enjoy this warm, hearty meal with family or friends, or save the leftovers for a tasty lunch tomorrow!
This classic Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is comforting, filling, and easy to make. It’s the perfect meal for any busy day!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this stew. It will provide a slightly different flavor but still be delicious. Just make sure to brown it properly before adding it to the Crock Pot.
How Can I Make This Stew Vegetarian?
To turn it into a vegetarian dish, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for more flavor and texture!
Can I Freeze Leftover Stew?
Yes, you can freeze leftover stew! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve with Poor Man’s Stew?
This stew is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread or over rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. A side salad would also complement it nicely!