Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This stew is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it ideal for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its savory flavors and generous portions, Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is bound to become a family favorite.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 290
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Why Make Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
There are countless reasons to love Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew. It’s an affordable recipe that allows you to use pantry staples and fresh vegetables, resulting in a healthful meal that your family will enjoy. The stew is versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your ingredients and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a warm meal to chase away the chill or something easy to throw together before heading out for the day, this stew is a winner.
How to Make Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew Step by Step
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 can beef broth (15 oz)
1 can green beans (14.5 oz), drained
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker.
- Add onion, carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, green beans, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve hot.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
For a complete meal, serve Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew with crusty bread or warm rolls for dipping. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving.
How to Store Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
To store leftover Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew, cool it completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
- Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or bell peppers work well.
- For an even richer flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce.
- Don’t rush the slow cooking process; it intensifies the flavors beautifully.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes before serving to achieve the desired consistency.
Delicious Variations of Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
- Spicy Poor Man’s Stew: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Herbed Poor Man’s Stew: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or even rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Vegetarian Poor Man’s Stew: Substitute the meat with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegan option.
Conclusion
Don’t hesitate to try Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew in your kitchen. It offers incredible flavors with minimal effort, making mealtime a breeze. With its heartiness and versatility, it’s a delightful dish that everyone will love!

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the browned meat to the slow cooker.
- Add onion, carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, green beans, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls.







