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As the chilly evenings roll in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a hearty stew to warm the soul. I recently had the pleasure of cozying up with a bowl of Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot—a dish that has quickly become my go-to for easy, family-friendly meals. Imagine the rich aroma of ground beef mingling with tender russet potatoes and vibrant veggies, all brought together in a deliciously thick, savory broth.

This recipe isn’t just packed with flavor; it’s also incredibly versatile, easily adaptable for the slow cooker or stovetop. Whether you’re trying to get your family to eat healthier or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner option, this gluten-free and dairy-free stew checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for meal prepping! So, grab your Crock Pot and let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home!

Why is Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot perfect?

Ease of Preparation: This stew requires minimal hands-on time—simply toss in your ingredients and let the Crock Pot do the work!

Rich, Layered Flavors: The slow cooking method enhances the melding of savory beef and fresh veggies, resulting in a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Customizable: Whether you crave more spice or wish to add extra veggies, this recipe adapts to your tastes beautifully.

Time-Saving Meal Prep: Make a large batch, store leftovers, and enjoy hearty meals throughout the week without extra fuss.

Family Favorite: Perfect for picky eaters—this comforting stew brings the whole family together at the dinner table, ensuring a rewarding dining experience.

With its crowd-pleasing nature, your evenings will be filled with warmth and satisfaction. For more slow cooker ideas, check out our slow cooker recipes!

Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot Ingredients

Get ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and flavor!

For the Stew

Ground Beef – Provides protein and richness. Substitution: Use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Russet Potatoes – Adds texture and body to the stew. Substitution: Yukon gold or sweet potatoes can be used.
Celery – Offers crunch and aromatic flavor. No substitutions needed.
Onion – Enhances the overall aroma and taste. Substitution: Shallots or leeks could work well.
Whole Kernel Corn – Contributes sweetness and color. Substitution: Frozen corn can be used instead.
Red Kidney Beans – Adds fiber and heartiness. Substitution: Black beans or garbanzo beans are great alternatives.
Campbell’s Tomato Soup – Adds a creamy texture and rich tomato flavor. Substitution: Use an additional can of diced tomatoes or V8 juice if tomato soup isn’t available.
Diced Tomatoes – Brings in acidity and moisture. No substitutions needed.
Garlic Powder – Provides a savory depth. Substitution: Fresh garlic can be used.
Chili Powder, Salt & Pepper – Season as desired for flavor enhancement. Adjust according to taste.

Tackle the busy evenings ahead with this convenient and delicious Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot, and watch it become a beloved dish for your family!

How to Make Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot

Brown the Beef: In a skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then transfer the beef to your Crock Pot.
Layer Ingredients: Add 4 medium russet potatoes, sliced; 2 stalks of diced celery; and 1 chopped onion to the pot, layering them over the cooked beef.
Incorporate the Veggies: Toss in 1 cup of whole kernel corn, 1 can of drained red kidney beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 can of Campbell’s tomato soup for a rich, savory base.
Season Well: Sprinkle in desired amounts of chili powder, salt, and pepper, stirring gently to mix everything together.
Cook on Low: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and all flavors meld beautifully.
Serve Warm: Once finished, give it a gentle stir and ladle into bowls. Enjoy warm, optionally garnished with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.

Optional: Add fresh parsley for a lovely pop of color and added flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Shipwreck Stew Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Shipwreck Stew; there are countless ways to customize this cozy dish!

Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty plant-based option. This swap retains the rich texture while keeping the flavors intact.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery touch that will tantalize your taste buds.
Extra Veggies: Stir in additional vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to boost nutrition and color. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
Swap the Beans: Try mixing beans—black beans or pinto beans add delightful variation and different textures. This can also help keep the dish exciting meal after meal.
Creamy Twist: Incorporate a splash of coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to enrich the broth, making it wonderfully creamy without dairy.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano while cooking for a garden-fresh aroma and flavor that elevates the dish.
Smoky Flavor: Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika to bring a delightful smoky dimension, enhancing the overall depth of this stew.
Gluten-Free Boost: Ensure all canned products and spices are certified gluten-free to keep this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Store and Freeze Shipwreck Stew

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; let it cool completely before transferring to ensure freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Simply reheat when ready to enjoy again!

Reheating: Microwave or heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth for extra moisture if needed.

Thawing: Always thaw frozen Shipwreck Stew in the fridge overnight for best texture and flavor upon reheating.

What to Serve with Shipwreck Stew?

What better way to complement this cozy dish than with a selection of sides that brighten every bite?

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich stew, a warm loaf enhances the meal with its comforting texture. Freshly baked bread takes your family dinner to the next level.
Garlic Breadsticks: Fluffy and buttery, these breadsticks bring a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the hearty stew, giving a satisfying contrast.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds a crisp bite, balancing the warmth and richness of the Shipwreck Stew.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted to caramelized perfection, not only enhance visual appeal but also provide an earthy flavor that complements the stew’s savory notes.
Crispy Cornbread: Slightly sweet and golden brown, cornbread is a classic match that adds sweetness and texture, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Cheesy Cauliflower Bake: A creamy, cheesy dish that offers a decadent side, balancing the stew with rich flavors and making everyone smile at the dinner table.
Light Beer or Cider: A chilled drink adds a refreshing finish to your meal, cutting through the richness of the stew and enhancing the overall dining experience.

By adding any of these sides, your wonderful Shipwreck Stew becomes a complete, delightful, and satisfying feast for family and friends alike!

Expert Tips for Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot

Choose Quality Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce grease and enhance the flavor; avoid overly fatty cuts that can make the stew greasy.
Layering Matters: Properly layer the ingredients in your Crock Pot; start with the meat, followed by the veggies, to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste before the stew is finished; spices can intensify over long cooking, so adjust the chili powder, salt, and pepper towards the end for the best Shipwreck Stew flavor.
Thicker Consistency: For a heartier stew, consider mashing a few potato pieces before serving to thicken the broth naturally.
Storage Tips: This stew can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days; freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick meals later!

Make Ahead Options

These Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot options are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prepping! You can chop your vegetables—such as onions, celery, and potatoes—up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your stew, simply layer the prepped ingredients in the Crock Pot with the remaining components, season, and let it cook on low for 6–8 hours. This way, you’ll have a hearty meal ready with minimal effort, preserving the comforting flavors that make this dish so beloved!

Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground beef for Shipwreck Stew?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef to reduce grease and enhance flavor. Choose 80/20 or 90/10 ground beef; avoid overly fatty cuts, as they can leave your stew greasy.

What if I can’t find a specific ingredient?
Very! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. If you can’t find russet potatoes, you can substitute them with Yukon gold or sweet potatoes. Similarly, if red kidney beans aren’t available, black beans or garbanzo beans can be great alternatives.

How should I store leftover Shipwreck Stew?
A fantastic question! Store leftover Shipwreck Stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let the stew cool completely at room temperature before sealing it to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze Shipwreck Stew, and how?
Absolutely! For longer storage, divide the stew into individual portions and freeze them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave. If the stew seems a bit thick after thawing, add a splash of broth to bring back its comfort.

Are there any dietary considerations for Shipwreck Stew?
Very important! This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Just make sure to double-check packaged ingredients, like canned soups or beans, for any hidden gluten or dairy products. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific allergies.

What should I do if my stew turns out too thin?
Great question! If you find your Shipwreck Stew is thinner than you’d like, you can mash a few pieces of potato against the side of the pot to thicken the broth naturally. Alternatively, stir in some cornstarch mixed with water, cooking for a few more minutes until it thickens up perfectly.