Hearty, simple, and full of comforting flavor, Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mulligan Stew is the kind of meal that turns basic ingredients into something truly satisfying. This rustic stew has roots in traditional, no-fuss cooking where whatever ingredients were available were combined into a filling one-pot meal.
The name Mulligan Stew comes from a classic American dish often associated with campfire cooking, where meats and vegetables were simmered together to create a rich, nourishing stew. Today, this slow cooker version keeps that same spirit alive—simple, affordable, and incredibly comforting.
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in tender meat, soft potatoes, and a savory broth that tastes like it simmered all day on the stove. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm, home-cooked meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
This recipe is ideal for families, meal prep, or anyone looking for a budget-friendly slow cooker dinner with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 4 simple ingredients
Hearty and filling one-pot meal
Perfect budget-friendly comfort food
Easy set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker recipe
Great for family dinners or meal prep
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
4 cups potatoes, diced
2 cups beef broth
1 can mixed vegetables (drained)
Instructions
Brown the beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add to slow cooker
Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
Add remaining ingredients
Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, and mixed vegetables.
Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Serve
Stir well and serve hot.
Recipe Notes
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Add seasoning
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika can boost the flavor.
Use fresh vegetables
You can substitute fresh carrots, peas, or corn instead of canned.
Make it thicker
Mash some of the potatoes in the stew to naturally thicken the broth.