Slow Cooker Beef Stew

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbFlank steak$9.00
• 1.5 lbPotatoes$2.80
• 4Carrots$1.60
• 1Onion$0.90
• 3 cupsVegetable broth$1.50
• 1 tbspVegetable oil$0.06
• 1 tspSalt—
• 1/2 tspBlack pepper$0.05
• Total for 4 servings$15.91

Most of the cost is flank steak ($9.00) and potatoes ($2.80). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $14.35. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Cut the flank steak into bite-size 1-inch cubes, then season evenly on all sides with the salt and black pepper.
2. Dice the onion, slice the carrots into half-inch rounds, and cut the potatoes into 1-inch chunks.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 1 minute until shimmering, then add the flank steak and sear for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
4. Transfer the browned flank steak to the slow cooker, then add the onion, carrots, potatoes, and vegetable broth. Cover with the lid and cook on low heat for 7 to 8 hours until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are completely soft.
5. Turn off the slow cooker or switch to warm, stir gently, and let the stew rest uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes so the broth thickens slightly from the potato starch.
6. Taste the broth and season with an extra pinch of salt if desired, then ladle the warm stew into deep bowls and serve.