Crockpot Recipes

January 12, 2026

Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew: 7 Comforting Flavors to Savor

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Difficulty Easy

Recipe by

Mia

136 Views • 9 min read

Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew: 7 Comforting Flavors to Savor

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Hey there, fellow home cook! If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a warm, hearty meal that doesn’t break the bank. That’s where my Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew comes in! This stew is not just easy to whip up, but it’s also a delightful way to use up whatever you’ve got lying around. I love how simple it is—just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do its magic while you go about your day. The aroma wafting through the house is simply irresistible! Plus, it’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and fills you up, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or a comforting solo night in. Trust me, once you try this stew, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making my Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew a delicious success! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef: I like to use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
4 potatoes, diced: Any kind of potato works, but I usually go for russets or Yukon golds. Just peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
3 carrots, sliced: Fresh carrots add a nice sweetness. I slice them into rounds, but you can chop them however you like.
1 onion, chopped: A medium onion adds so much flavor. I prefer yellow onions, but white or even red will do just fine!
2 cups beef broth: Homemade is great if you have it, but store-bought works perfectly too. It’s the liquid gold of this stew!
1 can diced tomatoes: Use the standard 14.5 oz can, and don’t drain it! Those juices add extra flavor.
1 can green beans: The canned variety is super convenient. If you prefer fresh, just trim and chop them before adding.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings a lovely aroma and depth to the stew.
1 tsp salt: Adjust according to your taste. I usually start with this amount and add more if needed later.
1 tsp pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is my go-to for that perfect kick!
1 tsp dried thyme: This herb gives the stew its comforting, earthy flavor. You could also try Italian seasoning if you want to mix things up!

How to Prepare Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew

Making my Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is as easy as pie! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process so you can enjoy all the hearty goodness in no time.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

First things first, grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This browning adds so much flavor to the stew, so don’t rush it! Once it’s nice and browned, drain any excess fat before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Now it’s time to get those veggies in! Take your diced potatoes, sliced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic and toss them directly into the crock pot. I love the colors and textures of these vegetables—they really make the stew feel hearty and wholesome!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all!). Add in the green beans, salt, pepper, and thyme. It’s super important to stir everything together well so that all those flavors mingle. Just think of it as a big happy family coming together in the pot!

Step 4: Cooking Time

Now, cover your crock pot and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you’re home, it’s a good idea to give it a stir halfway through cooking. When it’s done, the veggies should be tender and the flavors rich and comforting. Just keep an eye on it towards the end—if you can’t resist, sneak a taste to check for seasoning! Now, you’re ready to dive into a warm bowl of goodness!

Tips for Success with Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew

Alright, let’s make sure your Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew turns out absolutely perfect! First, don’t skip the browning step for the ground beef; it adds a depth of flavor you just can’t get otherwise. Also, feel free to get creative with your veggies! If you have leftover bell peppers or zucchini, toss those in too—they add great flavor and nutrition.

Make sure to cut your vegetables into uniform sizes; this helps them cook evenly. And here’s a little secret: if you’re short on time, you can use frozen vegetables instead of fresh, just add them in the last hour of cooking. Lastly, taste your stew before serving! Adjust the seasoning if needed; sometimes it just needs a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper. Trust me, these little tips will elevate your stew to the next level!

Nutritional Information for Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew

Understanding the nutritional value of my Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew can help you enjoy it even more! Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving, which is about one bowl:

Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But knowing this info can help you enjoy your hearty meal while keeping an eye on your dietary goals. Plus, with the combination of protein and veggies, this stew is not just filling but also nutritious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Budget-friendly: This stew is perfect for anyone looking to stretch their dollar while still enjoying a hearty meal.
Hearty and filling: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s the kind of dish that warms you up and keeps you satisfied.
Easy to make: Just brown the beef, toss everything in the crock pot, and let it do its thing—no complicated steps here!
Flexibility: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any pantry.
Great for leftovers: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick reheat!
Kid-friendly: It’s a hit with kids! The flavors are mild and comforting, making it easy for the whole family to enjoy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is super easy! After you’ve enjoyed your meal, allow any leftovers to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer the stew into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick meal!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top since the stew will expand as it freezes. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.

As for reheating, you have a couple of great options. For a quick fix, pop it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. If you prefer, you can also reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s nice and warm. Just be sure to check the temperature to ensure it’s heated thoroughly. Enjoy your cozy stew once again!

FAQ About Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew

Can I use other meats?

Absolutely! While I love using ground beef for my Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew, you can easily swap it out for other meats. Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully and can give you a lighter option. If you’re feeling adventurous, try diced beef or even sausage for a heartier, spicier flavor. Just remember that different meats might need slight adjustments in cooking time, so keep an eye on that!

What vegetables can I substitute?

The beauty of this stew is its flexibility! You can definitely substitute veggies based on what you have in your pantry or what’s in season. Think about adding bell peppers, corn, or even peas for a pop of color and flavor. If you have leftover greens like spinach or kale, toss those in during the last hour of cooking. It’s all about using what you love and making this dish your own!

How long does it last in the fridge?

Your Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep everything nice and tasty. If you find that you have leftovers, consider it a win for easy meals later in the week!

Can I freeze the stew?

You bet! Freezing this stew is a fantastic way to save it for later. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It’ll keep well frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to dig in, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, and it’ll taste just as good as when you first made it!

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Oh, definitely! My Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew is a hit with kids, thanks to its mild flavors and comforting texture. It’s packed with nutritious veggies, and the whole family can enjoy it together. Plus, kids love that they can help with adding ingredients to the crock pot! It’s a great way to get them involved in cooking while serving up something delicious that they’ll actually want to eat.

What do you think?

Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!

Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew: 7 Comforting Flavors to Savor

Mia

Ingredients for Crock Pot Poor Man’s Stew