Creamy, hearty, and wildly comforting, Poor Man’s Stew is the kind of one-pot dinner that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time45 minutesmins
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4servings
Equipment
Large Pot
Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
Ingredients
1poundGround beef, raw
3mediumPotatoes, peeled and dicedCut into 1/2-inch cubes
2largeCarrots, peeled and slicedCut into rounds or half moons
1largeOnion, choppedAbout 1 cup
14.5ouncesCanned tomatoes, crushed
4cupsBeef brothLow-sodium preferred
Salt and pepperTo taste
1cloveGarlic, mincedOptional
1tspDried herbs (thyme or rosemary), crushedOptional
Instructions
In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until no pink remains and the beef is nicely browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and optional minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the sliced carrots and cook for 2 minutes more.
Add the diced potatoes, crushed tomatoes (including juices), and beef broth. Stir in optional dried herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low to maintain a simmer. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed. Serve hot, ladled into bowls.
Notes
This stew is freezer-friendly and can be reheated gently on the stovetop. Add a little broth if it thickens during storage.