Slow Cooker 4 Ingredient Mulligan Stew Recipe – Easy Budget-Friendly Comfort Food
Hearty Slow Cooker Mulligan Stew for Busy Families
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker stew recipe that is filling, affordable, and packed with old-fashioned comfort, this Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mulligan Stew is the perfect choice. Made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes, this budget-friendly crockpot dinner delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.
Inspired by traditional Depression-era cooking, this hearty beef stew recipe transforms a few inexpensive ingredients into a satisfying family meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a cozy cold-weather dinner, this classic mulligan stew is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Mulligan Stew
- Only 4 simple ingredients
- Budget-friendly family dinner
- Easy dump-and-go slow cooker recipe
- Hearty and satisfying comfort food
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Great for feeding large families
- Uses affordable pantry staples
- Naturally dairy-free
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups yellow onion, diced
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed or diced tomatoes with juice
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if desired.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked beef to a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.
Layer the diced potatoes over the beef, followed by the diced onions.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Pour the canned tomatoes and their juices over the vegetables. Spread evenly to help everything cook properly.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
- LOW for 7–8 hours, or
- HIGH for 4–5 hours
Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender and the onions have softened completely.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Stir the stew thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a rich tomato broth.
Serve hot with crusty bread, crackers, cornbread, rice, or egg noodles.
Benefits of Mulligan Stew
Budget-Friendly
This economical beef stew recipe uses inexpensive ingredients that can easily feed a family.
Rich in Protein
Ground beef provides protein that helps keep you full and satisfied.
Comfort Food Classic
Warm, hearty, and filling, this slow cooker comfort food is ideal for chilly evenings and busy weeknights.
Easy Meal Prep
Leftovers store beautifully and often taste even better the next day.
Minimal Ingredients
With only four ingredients, this recipe keeps grocery costs low while delivering maximum flavor.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Add carrots for extra vegetables.
- Stir in frozen peas during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Use fire-roasted tomatoes for deeper flavor.
- Add garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning for extra seasoning.
- Mash a few potatoes to create a thicker stew.
