🥘 Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Poor Man’s Stew

🥘 Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Poor Man’s Stew

Servings: 6 | Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 4-8 hours

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs Ground beef (leaner blends like 90/10 work best here)

• 4 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 3 medium Carrots, peeled and sliced

• 1 medium Yellow onion, diced

• 4 cups Beef broth

• Pantry Staples: 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Layer the Base: Place the raw ground beef at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Break it up slightly into large chunks.

2. Add Vegetables: Scatter the potatoes, carrots, and onions over the beef. Season evenly with salt and pepper.

3. The Slow Simmer: Pour the beef broth over the mixture. Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.

4. The “Finish”: About 1 hour before serving, use a sturdy spoon to break the beef into smaller crumbles. Stir the pot thoroughly.

5. Adjust Texture: Taste for seasoning. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few of the tender potato pieces directly into the broth to create a natural thickener.

6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese or parsley if desired.

Quick Tips for Success

• Fat Content: Because the beef isn’t drained, using a lean ground beef prevents the stew from becoming too oily. If you use a higher fat percentage (like 80/20), you can skim any excess oil off the top with a spoon before serving.

• Potato Choice: Russets are great for thickening the stew (they fall apart easily), but if you prefer potatoes that hold their shape perfectly, try Yukon Golds.

• The “Diner” Secret: If you try the tomato-style variation mentioned in your notes, adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce along with the tomato sauce adds a massive boost of savory “umami” flavor.

Serving Suggestions