Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew
Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew is one of those delightful meals that warms your heart and fills your belly. This dish is an incredible mix of hearty ingredients, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity and the comforting flavors that come together effortlessly in a slow cooker. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable, enjoyable, and absolutely delicious.
A Personal Story Behind My Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew Journey
Growing up, my family had a special connection to hearty meals like Shipwreck Stew. My grandmother would often make this dish on cold winter nights, filling the house with a warm and inviting aroma. It became a tradition for us to gather around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of this delicious stew. Now, I continue that tradition with my own family, passing down the love and comfort that this dish brings.
What Makes This Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew Recipe Special?
What sets this Shipwreck Stew apart is its versatility and the ability to adapt it to your taste. Using a rich combination of ground beef, vegetables, and beans, this stew is not only filling but also a great way to sneak in some nutrition. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a savory and satisfying meal. Plus, the option to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices means that every batch can be a little different, keeping mealtime exciting!
The Full Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 pounds ground beef
- 5 russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 5 stalks celery, diced
- 1 large white onion, diced
- 2 (15 ounce) cans whole kernel corn
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, with liquid
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can tomato soup
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 cups chicken or beef broth for a thinner soup
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Make sure to drain the grease before transferring the beef to your slow cooker.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Add all remaining ingredients into the slow cooker, mixing well. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. (Tip: Stir occasionally if you can for even better flavor!)
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add chicken or beef broth at the end of cooking. Serve hot, and consider topping with shredded cheese and oyster crackers for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew
This hearty stew can be enjoyed on its own or served with some crusty bread or cornbread to soak up all the delicious broth. For a twist, consider adding different vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or even spices such as cumin or paprika to enhance the flavor profile. You can also make this a vegetarian dish by substituting the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew
Can I freeze Shipwreck Stew?
Yes! This stew freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
How can I thicken the stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker and stir them back into the stew. Alternatively, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker in the last hour of cooking.
What can I serve with Shipwreck Stew?
This stew is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or even over rice for a different twist.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker) or 45 minutes (stovetop)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (slow cooker) or 1 hour (stovetop)
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 8
Crock Pot Shipwreck Stew
Equipment
- Slow Cooker For easy cooking and flavor melding.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 5 pieces russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 5 stalks celery, diced
- 1 large white onion, diced
- 2 15 ounce cans whole kernel corn
- 2 15 ounce cans red kidney beans, with liquid
- 1 10.5 ounce can tomato soup
- 1 15 ounce can diced tomatoes, with liquid
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth (optional) For a thinner soup
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet until fully cooked. Drain the grease and transfer it to the slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients into the slow cooker, cover with the lid, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
- For a thinner soup, add chicken or beef broth at the end of cooking if desired. Serve as is or top with cheese and oyster crackers.