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Slow Cooker Poor Man's Stew

This budget-friendly, stick-to-your-ribs stew is a classic slow cooker favorite made with ground beef, hearty vegetables, and pantry staples. It’s easy to prep, rich in flavor, and perfect for feeding a family with leftovers to spare. Comfort food doesn’t get simpler or more satisfying.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Course Budget Meals, Comfort Food, Main Course, Slow Cooker, Stews
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 390 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 preferred
  • 4 medium russet potatoes peeled and diced
  • 2 large carrots peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 4 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 beef bouillon cubes
  • 2 cups hot water
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • Worcestershire sauce a few drops, optional

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook 7–10 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  • Transfer browned beef to a slow cooker. Add diced potatoes, carrots, and chopped onion.
  • Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  • In a separate bowl, mix tomato paste, hot water, bouillon cubes (stir until dissolved), and Worcestershire sauce if using.
  • Pour the broth mixture over the contents of the slow cooker. Stir to ensure even distribution.
  • Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or on high for 4–5 hours, until potatoes and carrots are tender.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

Notes

For extra heartiness, stir in a can of drained kidney beans or frozen peas during the last hour of cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 390kcal
Keyword cheap family dinner, easy crockpot, ground beef stew, poor man’s stew, rustic comfort food
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