Hey there, fellow home cooks! Are you looking for a hearty, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy days? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew—a delicious, comforting dish that’s as easy on the wallet as it is on the taste buds. This recipe is all about simplicity, flavor, and making the most of what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to serve up some quick family dinners without breaking the bank!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly affordable, making it a great option for easy cheap ground beef recipes.
- The slow cooker does all the work, so you can set it and forget it.
- It’s packed with flavor, thanks to the slow cooking process that makes the beef super tender and tasty.
- It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinner ideas or even easy lunch ideas with hamburger meat.
- It’s versatile—customize it with your favorite veggies or seasonings!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this simple and satisfying meal:
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew. The best part? It’s one of those 30-minute meals (well, mostly hands-off time!) that’s perfect for busy days.
1. Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked—it’ll finish cooking in the slow cooker.
2. Add your favorite veggies—onions, carrots, potatoes, and more—to the slow cooker. You can customize based on what you have on hand.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. The slow cooking process will meld all the flavors together beautifully.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When it’s done, the beef will be tender, and the veggies will be perfectly cooked.
For more inspiration, check out this easy recipe for Hobo Casserole Ground Beef—it’s another great way to use ground beef for dinner ideas that are quick and delicious!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tips to make this recipe even better:
- Add a splash of broth or water if you want a more stew-like consistency.
- For an extra burst of flavor, stir in some creamy garlic pasta sauce near the end of cooking.
- Experiment with different seasonings—chili powder, paprika, or even a bit of cumin can add unique twists.
How to Serve
Serving this stew is as easy as ladling it into bowls and enjoying! You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that pairs well with just about anything.
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is a great candidate for meal prep. Cook it on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
There you have it—a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for quick family dinners or easy weeknight dinner ideas. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Other ingredients like vegetables and broth are also typically included.
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
