This easy slow cooker mulligan stew combines ground beef, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes into a hearty, budget-friendly family meal. Perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mulligan Stew
Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying.
This Slow Cooker Mulligan Stew is a classic comfort food recipe inspired by the resourceful meals families relied on during difficult times. Made with just four affordable ingredients, this hearty stew slowly simmers into a rich, savory dinner packed with tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, sweet onions, and a robust tomato broth.
It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with comforting aromas while requiring very little effort from the cook.
If you’re looking for an easy crockpot dinner that’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for busy days, this old-fashioned mulligan stew deserves a place on your menu.
Why You’ll Love This Mulligan Stew Recipe
- Only 4 simple ingredients
- Budget-friendly family meal
- Easy slow cooker preparation
- Perfect for meal prep
- Hearty and filling
- Great for feeding a crowd
- Minimal cleanup required
- Freezer-friendly leftovers
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or stretching your grocery budget, this classic stew delivers satisfying comfort in every bite.
What Is Mulligan Stew?
Mulligan stew is a traditional American dish known for its flexibility and simplicity.
Historically, it was often made using whatever ingredients were available, making it a practical meal during times when families needed to make the most of limited resources.
Today’s version keeps that spirit alive with a handful of affordable pantry staples that transform into a rich and flavorful stew after hours of slow cooking.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
For the Stew
- 2 pounds ground beef (80–85% lean)
- 4 cups peeled and diced russet potatoes
- 2 cups diced yellow onions
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed or diced tomatoes with juice
Optional Seasonings
While traditional mulligan stew is intentionally simple, you may add:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
according to your family’s preferences.
How to Make Slow Cooker Mulligan Stew
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks.
This typically takes about 7 to 10 minutes.
Drain excess grease if desired.
Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Place the cooked ground beef into the bottom of a large slow cooker.
Spread it evenly to create a base layer.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Onions
Layer the diced potatoes over the beef.
Next, sprinkle the diced onions evenly across the potatoes.
Avoid stirring at this stage to help the ingredients cook evenly.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
Pour both cans of tomatoes, including all juices, over the potatoes and onions.
The tomato juices will create the flavorful broth as the stew cooks.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover with the lid and cook:
Low Setting
- 7 to 8 hours
High Setting
- 4 to 5 hours
The stew is ready when the potatoes are fork-tender and the onions have softened into the broth.
Step 6: Stir and Serve
Gently stir everything together before serving.
The tomatoes, onions, beef, and potatoes will combine into a rich, hearty stew with incredible homemade flavor.
Serve hot and enjoy.
Best Side Dishes for Mulligan Stew
