Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew
This Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is the epitome of comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect dish for busy families or anyone looking for a simple, satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious stew that fills your home with a delightful aroma and warms your heart.
A Personal Story Behind My Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed hearty meals that were both affordable and filling. My grandmother made her version of Poor Man’s Stew in a big pot on the stove, but with the convenience of modern technology, I’ve adapted it to the slow cooker. This dish brings back fond memories of family dinners, laughter, and stories shared over a warm meal.
What Makes This Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew Recipe Special?
What sets this stew apart is its simplicity and versatility. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and carrots creates a satisfying base, while the seasonings add depth and flavor. Plus, it’s easy to customize! You can throw in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to use up leftovers or whatever veggies you have on hand.
The Full Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef, browned and drained
- 1 ½ lbs russet or gold potatoes, peeled and diced large
- 3 carrots, sliced thick
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 6 oz. can tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. pepper
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 2 tsp. Italian seasoning (or oregano)
Instructions
- In a 5-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic. Tip: Make sure to brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker; this enhances the flavor of the stew.
- In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir well to combine. Tip: Stirring helps to ensure all the ingredients are coated in the sauce for maximum flavor.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours without lifting the lid during the cooking process. Tip: Avoid lifting the lid as it can slow down the cooking process and affect the final texture of the stew.
- Serve with buttered sandwich bread or rolls and savor the flavors! Tip: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a nice touch of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew
This stew pairs wonderfully with buttered bread or rolls, perfect for dipping into the rich broth. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. If you want to add some more color and nutrition, consider tossing in peas or green beans during the last hour of cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground beef, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes! This stew is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and then start cooking in the morning for a warm meal by dinner.
Is this stew healthy?
This stew is a nutritious option, packed with protein from the beef and plenty of vitamins from the vegetables. It’s a hearty meal that can be part of a balanced diet.
Enjoy a warm and comforting meal with this easy slow cooker beef stew!
Crock Pot Poor Man's Stew
Equipment
- 5-quart or larger slow cooker
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef browned and drained
- 1.5 lbs russet or gold potatoes peeled and diced large
- 3 carrots sliced thick
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 1 garlic clove minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning or oregano
Instructions
- In a 5-quart or larger slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic.
- In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours without lifting the lid during the cooking process.
- Serve with buttered sandwich bread or rolls and savor the flavors!