Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

Description:
This hearty and budget-friendly stew is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for feeding a family with simple, wholesome ingredients. Made with ground beef, tender potatoes, and carrots simmered in a flavorful tomato-based broth, it’s a filling meal that’s easy to prepare. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy a warm and satisfying dinner. Serve it with crusty bread for a truly cozy experience.

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Ingredients

Servings: 6

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1½ lbs potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, chopped
• 6 oz tomato paste (1 small can)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes

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1. Brown the Ground Beef:

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Break the meat into small pieces while cooking.
• Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

2. Add Vegetables:

• Place the potatoes, carrots, and onions into the slow cooker with the browned beef. Stir everything to combine evenly.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a bowl, whisk together the water, tomato paste, oregano, onion powder, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

4. Combine and Cook:

• Pour the sauce mixture over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure everything is well coated.
• Cover and cook on low heat for 7 hours or until the vegetables are tender and flavors are well blended.

5. Serve:

• Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or rolls for dipping.

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Tips for Success:

1. Meat Options:
   • Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
2. Vegetable Variations:
   • Feel free to add celery, peas, or green beans for extra color and nutrients.
3. Thicker Stew:
   • For a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes before serving, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
4. Seasoning Boost:
   • Add a dash of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper, savory flavor.
5. Make-Ahead Tip:
   • Prep the ingredients the night before, store them in the refrigerator, and simply start the slow cooker in the morning for an effortless dinner.

This Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create a hearty and delicious meal. Perfect for busy days or when you’re craving a comforting, home-cooked dish!