This Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is a hearty mix of potatoes, carrots, and ground beef, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for chilly days!
I love how easy it is to throw everything in the crock pot. Just set it and forget it! Plus, the smell while it cooks is like a warm hug for your kitchen! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using ground beef for its rich flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option or a plant-based ground meat if you’re vegetarian.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect here, but feel free to use red or Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture. If you’re cutting carbs, swap them for cauliflower florets.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. You can use baby carrots as a quick alternative or even parsnips for a different flavor profile.
Beef Broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works perfectly too. If you’re avoiding beef, vegetable broth is a great substitute.
Condensed Tomato Soup: This gives a nice depth of flavor. For a healthier option, you can use a homemade or low-sodium version. A can of diced tomatoes with some tomato paste can work as a substitute too!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Stew?
To enhance the flavor of your stew, focus on browning the ground beef well before adding it to the crock pot. This caramelization adds a deep, rich taste that makes all the difference. Here’s how:
- Heat a skillet on medium heat. Add ground beef and break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, then drain excess fat. Don’t rush this step!
Also, when mixing your broth and spices, make sure they are well combined before pouring over the other ingredients. This ensures even seasoning throughout!
And remember, taste your stew right before serving. Adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to fit your personal preference. Enjoy your meal and the warm, cozy feelings it brings!
Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Broth and Seasoning:
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy stew will take about 15 minutes to prepare. After that, it needs to cook in the crock pot for either 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. The longer, the better as it allows all the flavors to blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s brown and no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep your stew nice and healthy!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Grab your crock pot and add in the browned ground beef along with the diced potatoes, carrots, onion, and minced garlic. It should look colorful and delicious already!
3. Mix the Broth & Seasoning:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, condensed tomato soup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano until it’s well blended. This will be the flavorful base for your stew.
4. Add to the Crock Pot:
Pour the broth mixture over the ingredients in the crock pot. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything evenly.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The goal is for the potatoes and carrots to be tender and tasty.
6. Optional Thickening:
If you want a thicker stew, about 30 minutes before it’s done, mix the flour and water together to make a slurry. Stir this into the stew and cover again until thickened.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, give your stew a taste! Adjust the salt and pepper if needed to match your preference.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Dish out your stew hot and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your heartwarming and budget-friendly Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost function. Make sure to brown it in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot.
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try replacing it with a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground beef alternative. Adjust the seasoning to complement the new protein.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Green beans, peas, or bell peppers can be great additions. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips may require some additional cooking time.
