Optional Seasonings

Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until it is browned and no longer pink.

Drain most of the excess fat if necessary, leaving a small amount for flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the beef cooks, prepare the vegetables:

Peel and cube the potatoes into 1-inch pieces
Slice the carrots into rounds
Dice the onion

Step 3: Add Vegetables to the Slow Cooker

Place the potatoes, carrots, and onion into the bottom of a 5–6 quart slow cooker. Spread them evenly so they cook uniformly.

Step 4: Add the Beef

Spoon the browned ground beef evenly over the vegetables.

This layering helps distribute the meat throughout the stew.

Step 5: Pour the Tomato Sauce

Pour both cans of tomato sauce over the beef and vegetables.

Do not add water. The vegetables will release moisture during cooking, which helps create a rich stew-like gravy.

Step 6: Stir Lightly

Give the mixture a gentle stir once or twice to distribute some of the sauce while keeping the vegetables mostly layered.

Step 7: Cook the Stew

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:

LOW: 7–8 hours
HIGH: 4–5 hours

The stew is ready when the potatoes and carrots are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 8: Final Stir and Season

Stir the stew thoroughly from bottom to top to combine all ingredients.

Taste and season with salt and black pepper if desired.

Let the stew rest uncovered for 5–10 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle the hot stew into bowls and serve immediately with bread or your favorite side dishes.

Pro Tips

Cut Vegetables Evenly

Uniform pieces help the vegetables cook at the same rate.

Use a Large Slow Cooker

A 5–6 quart slow cooker provides enough room for the ingredients to cook evenly.

Add Extra Flavor

You can add garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for additional flavor.

Make It Heartier

Serve the stew over white rice or egg noodles to stretch the meal further.

Thicker Stew

Let the stew sit uncovered for a few minutes before serving so the sauce thickens naturally.

Best Side Dishes

This hearty stew pairs well with simple sides that complement its rich flavor.

Bread Options

Fresh sandwich bread
Dinner rolls
Cornbread

Vegetables

Steamed peas
Roasted green beans
Simple garden salad

Extra Serving Ideas

Serve over white rice
Spoon over egg noodles
Pair with mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal

FAQ

Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?

Yes. You can chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Can I freeze poor man’s stew?

Yes. Let the stew cool completely and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Corn, celery, green beans, or peas work well in this stew.

How long will leftovers last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Yes. Simmer all ingredients in a large pot for about 45–60 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fat: 12 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sodium: 520 mg

Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient brands.

Recipe Summary

Recipe Name: Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Total Time: Up to 8 hours
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Category: Dinner / Stew
Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Easy Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew