Poor Man Stew
A hearty, budget-friendly stew with savory hamburger, creamy corn, and zesty chili, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or comforting casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet and drain the grease.
- Add the creamed corn, Hormel chili with beans, and tomato sauce to the browned hamburger.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the stew on toasted bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the hamburger with garlic powder or onion powder while browning. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with lentils or plant-based ground meat. You can also enhance the stew by adding diced bell peppers or corn. If you have leftover vegetables, such as from a Grilled Pork Loin dish, feel free to toss them in for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Poor Man Stew on toasted bread for a hearty meal. It pairs well with a side salad, such as a Roasted Vidalia Onion, Cherry Tomato And Bacon Salad, or some crusty bread. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside Patio Baked Beans for a delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Man Stew contains roughly 489 calories, with 21g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (289% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 81g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this stew in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this stew ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator after cooking and reheat when ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If your stew turns out too thick, simply add a little broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few additional minutes to incorporate the liquid. This will help balance the texture without compromising flavor.
Is it possible to freeze the stew?
Yes, Poor Man Stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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).