Poor Man’s Stew

Poor Man’s Stew is a classic, budget-friendly comfort food that has stood the test of time. Made with simple, affordable ingredients like ground beef, potatoes, and vegetables, this hearty one-pot meal was designed to stretch a dollar while still feeding a family well. It’s warm, filling, and full of home-cooked flavor—exactly the kind of dish that brings back memories of simple suppers and shared tables.

What Is Poor Man’s Stew?

Poor Man’s Stew is a rustic, no-frills dish that combines ground beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and tomatoes in a rich, savory broth. Popular during hard economic times, it became a household staple because it used inexpensive pantry items and required minimal preparation.

Today, it remains a favorite for busy families, meal prep, and anyone craving a satisfying, old-fashioned meal without the cost.

Ingredients

1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 cups beef broth or water
1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Optional: 1 bay leaf, frozen peas or corn

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add Vegetables

Stir in diced potatoes and sliced carrots, coating them in the beef mixture.

3. Simmer the Stew

Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes and carrots are tender.

4. Adjust and Serve

Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker stew, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Serve hot with bread or crackers.

Tips for the Best Poor Man’s Stew

Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking
Simmer gently to prevent sticking
Add water if needed to reach desired thickness
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving for deeper flavor

Variations

Extra Hearty: Add green beans, peas, or corn
Spicy: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce
Tomato-Rich: Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced
Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6–8 hours

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Poor Man’s Stew also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love Poor Man’s Stew

Poor Man’s Stew is simple, filling, and affordable, making it a timeless favorite. It’s easy to prepare, adaptable to what you have on hand, and deeply comforting. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking on a budget, this stew delivers hearty flavor without fuss.