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 is 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 Will Love This Recipe
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Only 4 Simple Ingredients: Ground beef, potatoes, beef broth, and mixed vegetables.
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Hearty and Filling: A complete one-pot meal that satisfies.
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Budget-Friendly Comfort Food:Made with affordable, pantry-staple ingredients.
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Easy Set-It-and-Forget-It: The slow cooker does all the work.
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Great for Family Dinners or Meal Prep: Perfect for busy weeknights.
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Customizable: Easily add seasonings or fresh vegetables.
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mulligan Stew
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on LOW or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH | Total Time: 6 to 7 hours
Servings: 6
This rustic, comforting stew combines ground beef, potatoes, and mixed vegetables in a savory beef broth. It is simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef (80–90% lean)
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4 cups potatoes, diced
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2 cups beef broth
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1 can mixed vegetables, drained (or 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add to Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the diced potatoes, beef broth, and drained mixed vegetables.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Serve
Stir well and serve hot.
Recipe Notes
1. Add Seasoning
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika can boost the flavor. Add these to taste before cooking.
2. Use Fresh Vegetables
You can substitute fresh carrots, peas, or corn instead of canned. Dice carrots and add them with the potatoes.
3. Make It Thicker
Mash some of the potatoes in the stew to naturally thicken the broth.
4. Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Tips for the Best Mulligan Stew
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Brown the Beef First: Browning adds depth of flavor. Do not skip this step.
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Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes break down slightly and help thicken the stew. Yukon Golds hold their shape better.
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Use Low-Sodium Broth: This allows you to control the salt level, especially if using canned vegetables.
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Add Vegetables at the Right Time: If using frozen vegetables, add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
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Adjust Consistency: For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker before serving.
Variations and Additions
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Add Onion: Sauté a diced onion with the ground beef for extra flavor.
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Add Garlic: Add 2 to 3 cloves of minced garlic when browning the beef.
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Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.
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Herb Addition: Add ½ teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary.
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Tomato Version: Add a 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes with the broth.
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Beef Chunks: Substitute ground beef with 1½ pounds of stew meat for a chunkier version. Cook for 7 to 8 hours on LOW.
What to Serve with Mulligan Stew
This hearty stew is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
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Cornbread: A classic pairing.
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Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
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Buttered Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are always welcome.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed.
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Freezer: This stew freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
The History of Mulligan Stew
Mulligan Stew has roots in American hobo and campfire cooking from the early 20th century. The term “mulligan” referred to a stew made from whatever ingredients were available—often foraged or shared among a group. It was a communal dish, cooked in a single pot over an open fire, and it became a symbol of resourcefulness and camaraderie.
This slow cooker version honors that spirit of simplicity and resourcefulness. It uses basic, affordable ingredients to create a warm, satisfying meal that feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because of its simplicity and the slow cooking process. Browning the ground beef first adds savory depth, while the potatoes and vegetables cook gently in the beef broth, absorbing all the flavors. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together into a cohesive, comforting stew without constant attention.
With just a handful of ingredients, you get a hearty, filling meal that tastes like it has been simmering all day.
Nutritional Information
Please note that values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
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| Calories | 280–350 |
| Protein | 18–22g |
| Carbohydrates | 28–32g |
| Fat | 10–12g |
| Saturated Fat | 4–5g |
| Fiber | 4–5g |
| Sugar | 4–6g |
| Sodium | 450–600mg |
Conclusion
Slow Cooker 4-Ingredient Mulligan Stew is a testament to the beauty of simple, resourceful cooking. With just a handful of ingredients and your slow cooker, you can create a hearty, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you need a little extra comfort, this stew is sure to become a favorite.
I hope this recipe brings warmth and simplicity to your table. If you give it a try, please leave a comment below. I would love to hear how it turned out for you.