Variations
Cheesy Top: Top with shredded cheddar or Parmesan just before serving for a creamy, indulgent finish that kids and adults will love.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner stew without sacrificing flavor. Love turkey? Our slow cooker turkey breast recipe is a must-try!
Vegetarian: Replace the meat with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and lentils for a satisfying plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the Crock Pot hamburger stew a subtle, warming heat.
Slow Cooker Chili Style: Add a can of diced tomatoes and a teaspoon of chili powder for a thicker, spicier stew with a chili-inspired twist.
How to Make Poor Man’s Stew in the Slow Cooker
Making this poor man’s stew in the crockpot is simple and mostly hands-off; just prep the ingredients in the morning, and let the slow cooker do all the work.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef. Cook the ground beef in a skillet until fully browned. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to the crock pot.
Step 2: Add the Veggies and Seasonings. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and all the herbs and spices. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Stew. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Thicken the Stew. Whisk the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir it into the stew. Cook for another 10 minutes until the sauce thickens, then remove the bay leaves and serve.
