There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of stew, especially the kind that fills your home with cozy aromas while simmering low and slow throughout the day. Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is one of those timeless, humble recipes that has fed families for generations, stretching simple ingredients into a flavorful, hearty, satisfying meal. Made with budget-friendly staples like ground beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and pantry spices, this dish proves that great food doesn’t need to be complicated — or expensive.

This slow cooker version stays true to the spirit of the classic depression-era dish: nourishing, affordable, and unbelievably comforting. But don’t let the simplicity fool you. The slow cooking process transforms everyday ingredients into a savory, rich, tomato-based stew that tastes homemade and nostalgic. It’s the kind of meal you crave on chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or any time you want something warm and wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s dive into everything that makes this recipe special, along with tips, variations, and the full instructions so you can recreate this timeless comfort dish right at home.

Why Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew Is a Must-Make Recipe

✔ It’s Budget-Friendly

Ground beef is more affordable than stew meat, and potatoes and carrots stretch the meal beautifully.

✔ Easy to Prepare

Just brown the beef, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.

✔ Feeds a Crowd

This stew is filling, wholesome, and makes generous servings perfect for families.

✔ Meal Prep Gold

Poor man’s stew gets even better as it sits — the flavors deepen, and leftovers are delicious.

✔ Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with vegetables and lean ground beef, this stew is balanced and comforting.

✔ Flexible and Forgiving

You can adapt it to what you have on hand — perfect for budget cooks.

Ingredients

For the Stew

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef
   In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker
   Add diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Add the Beef
   Place the browned beef over the vegetables.
4. Build the Stew Base
   Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, parsley, pepper, and salt.
5. Stir Gently
   Mix lightly so everything is combined. Add the bay leaf.
6. Slow Cook
   Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until potatoes and carrots are fork-tender.
7. Final Taste Adjustment
   Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt or broth consistency as needed.
8. Serve
   Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm with bread, rolls, or biscuits.

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

A hearty, budget-friendly slow cooker stew made with ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bowls

Course: Dinner, Main

Cuisine: American, Budget

Calories: 310

Ingredients

  

Stew Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef browned
• 4 medium potatoes diced
• 3 large carrots sliced
• 1 onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 15 oz diced tomatoes canned
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 bay leaf

Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board

Method

 

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
2. Add potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Place browned beef over vegetables.
4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Stir gently.
5. Add bay leaf and cook on LOW 7–8 hours or HIGH 4–5 hours.
6. Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.

Notes

For a thicker stew, mash a few potato pieces before serving.

Tips for Perfect Poor Man’s Stew

Brown the Beef First

This deepens the flavor and prevents the stew from becoming greasy.

Cut Potatoes Evenly

Uniform pieces ensure everything cooks at the same rate.

Use Russet or Yukon Gold

These varieties soften beautifully and help thicken the broth.

Add Tomato Paste for Richness

Stirring it into the broth gives the stew a hearty, robust base.

Don’t Over-Stir

Let the slow cooker do the work to avoid mushy vegetables.

Variations

Add Green Peas

Stir in 1 cup frozen peas 15 minutes before serving for color and sweetness.

Make It Spicy

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Use Ground Turkey

A lighter, leaner option that still tastes amazing.

Add Celery

For extra depth, include 2 sliced celery stalks.

Thicken the Stew More

Mash a few potatoes at the end for a thicker consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or homemade biscuits
• Pair with a simple green salad
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top
• Serve over rice for an extra-filling dinner
• Enjoy with cornbread for a Southern-style twist

Storage and Freezing

Refrigerator

Store leftovers up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Freezer

Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheat

Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth if needed.