Cheater Stew
A hearty, no-fuss stew combining beef and vegetables in creamy tomato and mushroom soups, perfect for comforting family dinners or easy weekend meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients into an oven roaster and cover.
- Bake in a slow oven all day or at 350°F for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic and herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stew. If you don't have lean beef, you can substitute with cubed chicken or pork for a different protein option. Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, such as green beans or peas, to enhance the dish. This Cheater Stew can be a great base for a hearty meal, similar to American recipes like Skillet Meatball Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheater Stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the stew. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for family gatherings and can be easily scaled up for large groups.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between, until hot. For longer storage, freeze the stew in portions for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheater Stew contains roughly 305 calories, with 18g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables in this stew?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this stew. They can save you time on prep and still provide great flavor and texture. Just add them during the last hour of cooking to ensure they don’t become mushy.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can transfer all the ingredients into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for a tender and rich stew.
What if I want to make it spicier?
If you prefer a kick, you can add spices like cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. You could also consider jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).