Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

This Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is a comforting, budget-friendly meal that’s hearty, filling, and perfect for cozy evenings. With tender potatoes, carrots, and seasoned ground beef, this stew is simple to make and packed with flavor. It’s an ideal one-pot meal that simmers in the slow cooker all day, making your home smell amazing while requiring minimal effort.

---

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1.5 lbs (about 3) potatoes, diced large
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 oz can tomato paste
• 2 cups water (or broth)
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano

---

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

• In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

1. Chop the Vegetables:

• While the beef is cooking, chop the potatoes into large chunks, slice the carrots, and dice the onion.

1. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:

• In a bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, minced garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, and oregano. This will form a thick, flavorful base for the stew.

1. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:

• Add the browned ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions into the crockpot. Pour the tomato paste mixture over the top, then add the 2 cups of water or broth. Stir everything to combine well.

1. Cook:

• Cover and cook on low for 7 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this will extend the cooking time.

1. Serve:

• Once cooked, serve the stew with a side of fresh bread for dipping. Optional: Top with shredded cheddar cheese for added richness.

---

Description and Tips:

This hearty stew is perfect for when you’re craving a simple yet comforting meal. The ground beef adds a rich flavor, while the potatoes and carrots make it filling. The tomato paste provides a tangy base, perfectly balanced with garlic, onion powder, and oregano. You can switch out water for beef or chicken broth to enhance the flavor. It’s great served with crusty bread or even topped with a little shredded cheddar for a creamy touch!