Easy Crockpot Ground Beef and Potato Stew

Easy Crockpot Ground Beef and Potato Stew

This comforting crockpot ground beef and potato stew is the perfect weeknight dinner that practically cooks itself. With minimal prep work and just a handful of ingredients, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal ready when you come home. The slow cooking method makes the potatoes tender and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker.
3. Add the cubed potatoes and diced onion to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the beef broth and stir well.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until potatoes are tender.
7. Stir before serving and taste to adjust seasonings if needed.

Practical Tips

Enhance the flavor: For extra depth of flavor, sauté the diced onions with the ground beef before adding everything to the slow cooker. This caramelizes the onions slightly and creates a richer base for your stew.

Don’t skip browning the meat: Taking the time to brown the ground beef develops better flavor through the Maillard reaction. It also helps render some of the fat, making your final dish less greasy.

Customize your vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or green beans during the last hour of cooking. This keeps them from becoming too soft while still allowing them to absorb the broth flavors.

Storage Instructions

This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Common Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with diced chuck roast or beef stew meat. If using tougher cuts, increase the cooking time to ensure the meat becomes tender.

What if my potatoes aren’t tender after the recommended time? Cooking times vary depending on your slow cooker model and the size of your potato cubes. If they’re still firm, simply cover and continue cooking for another 30 minutes to 1 hour on high.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Absolutely. You can assemble all the ingredients except the beef broth in freezer bags, then thaw and cook as directed. Add the broth after thawing for best results.