Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

Here’s a hearty, budget-friendly meal that’s full of flavor and slow-cooked to comfort perfection — Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew! 🥔🥕🍅 This classic dish uses simple pantry staples and turns them into a wholesome, satisfying dinner.

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🍲 Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

🍽️ Servings: 6

🕒 Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) | 3–4 hours (high)

💰 Budget-Friendly | 🥄 Comfort Food

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📝 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 4–5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce for extra depth

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🔥 Directions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add to Slow Cooker:
   Place beef, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.
3. Pour in Liquids:
   Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
4. Season:
   Sprinkle in paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Cook:
   • Low: 6–8 hours
   • High: 3–4 hours
     Or until veggies are fork-tender and flavors are well combined.
6. Serve:
   Stir well before serving. Delicious with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

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✅ Tips & Notes:

• Stretch the stew: Add a can of drained beans or frozen peas/corn near the end of cooking.
• Thicker stew? Mash a few potatoes at the end or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
• Want a smoky twist? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce.

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❄️ Storage & Reheating

• Store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cools and freezes well for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through.