A slow cooker beef stew is one of the best budget meals: inexpensive cuts of beef become tender, vegetables stretch the dish, and the slow cooker does all the work. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy WordPress food posts.
💰 Why This Recipe Is Budget-Friendly
Uses chuck roast or stew meat (cheap cuts that tenderize beautifully)
Root veggies like potatoes and carrots are low cost and filling
Makes 6 hearty servings (great leftovers)
Freezer-friendly
Estimated cost: ~$12–15 total (~$2–2.50 per serving, depending on local prices)
🛒 Ingredients
1.5 lb beef chuck or stew meat, cubed
4 medium potatoes, chopped
3 carrots, sliced
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth (or bouillon + water)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional but flavorful)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
Optional: frozen peas or green beans
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep Ingredients
Cut beef into bite-size chunks and chop vegetables.
2️⃣ Load Slow Cooker
Add beef, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3️⃣ Add Liquid & Seasoning
Pour in broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire, and spices. Stir gently.
4️⃣ Cook Low & Slow
LOW: 7–8 hours
HIGH: 4–5 hours
Beef should be fork-tender.
5️⃣ Thicken the Stew
Mix flour/cornstarch with a little cold water, stir into stew, and cook 15–20 minutes until thickened.
6️⃣ Final Touch
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add frozen veggies if using and heat through.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Crusty bread or dinner rolls
Over rice or mashed potatoes (extra filling on a budget)
Garnish with parsley for WordPress photos
🧊 Storage & Meal Prep
Fridge: 3–4 days
Freezer: Up to 3 months
Reheats beautifully and thickens even more
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