Shipwreck Stew is the kind of recipe that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This classic Crock Pot version turns simple pantry staples—ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and tomatoes—into a warm, hearty, budget-friendly meal the whole family can enjoy. It’s easy to assemble, reliably delicious, and perfect for busy days when you want dinner to cook itself.
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Why You’ll Love This Shipwreck Stew
There’s a reason Shipwreck Stew has been around for generations—it’s reliable, cozy, and incredibly adaptable. This Crock Pot variation lets everything simmer low and slow, creating deep flavor without any extra effort. You’ll love this recipe because:
- It uses affordable, easy-to-find ingredients.
- Prep is fast—brown the beef, layer, and walk away.
- The slow cooker does all the work.
- It delivers a balanced, satisfying meal in one bowl.
- Kids and adults love it because it’s mild, hearty, and familiar.
- It’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better.
Whether it’s cold weather season or you just want dinner without fuss, this stew is always a winner.
Ingredients for Shipwreck Stew
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 5–7 medium potatoes, peeled if desired and cubed or sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced or chopped
- 5–7 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cans kidney beans (about 15.5–16 oz each), drained and rinsed
- 2 cans whole kernel corn (about 15 oz each), drained
- 2 cans diced tomatoes (about 14.5 oz each), undrained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: You can swap with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with precooked lentils, tofu crumbles, or a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
- Potatoes: Russet, red potatoes, or Yukon gold all work well.
- Beans: Kidney beans add color and texture, but black beans, chickpeas, or pinto beans also work.
- Tomatoes: Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky note if you want more flavor depth.
- Seasoning: Keep it simple with salt and pepper, or add garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning for extra warmth.
- No Alcohol: The recipe is fully alcohol-free and family-friendly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the stew from becoming greasy. Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2 – Layer the Vegetables and Beans
Add the cubed potatoes directly over the ground beef. Follow this with the sliced onions and chopped celery. Next, add the kidney beans and corn. Finally, pour the diced tomatoes (with their juices) over the top. Do not stir; layering helps preserve the texture.
Step 3 – Season and Cook
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the layered ingredients. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours. When the potatoes and celery are tender, gently stir the stew to combine everything before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Ultimate Shipwreck Stew in the Crock-Pot
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
This Ultimate Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot transforms simple pantry ingredients—ground beef, potatoes, beans, corn, and tomatoes—into a warm, hearty, budget-friendly meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 5–7 medium potatoes, cubed or sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced or chopped
- 5–7 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cans whole kernel corn, drained
- 2 cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat and transfer beef to the slow cooker.
- Layer potatoes over the beef, then add onions, celery, kidney beans, and corn. Pour diced tomatoes with juices over the top without stirring.
- Season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours. When vegetables are tender, gently stir to combine and adjust seasoning.
Notes
Keep ingredients layered instead of stirring, use lean beef to avoid grease, avoid lifting the lid, and add broth only if needed for a soupier consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Pro Tips for Success
- Layer, don’t stir. Keeping ingredients in layers prevents the potatoes from breaking down too quickly.
- Use lean beef. It gives the stew great flavor without making the broth oily.
- Cut vegetables evenly. Uniform pieces help everything cook at the same pace.
- Don’t lift the lid. Every peek adds extra cooking time; trust the Crock Pot.
- Add broth only if needed. The vegetables and tomatoes usually create enough liquid, but you can add ½–1 cup beef or vegetable broth for a soupier consistency.
- Finish with seasoning. Slow-cooked dishes always need a final salt-and-pepper adjustment.
Flavor Variations
1. Tex-Mex Style
Add chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Swap kidney beans for black beans.
2. Italian-Inspired
Stir in garlic powder, basil, and oregano. Add zucchini or carrots.
3. Smoky Comfort Version
Use fire-roasted tomatoes and add a pinch of smoked paprika.
4. Extra Veggie Boost
Add spinach, peas, or green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Creamy Twist
For a creamier finish, stir in a small amount of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end (optional).
Serving Suggestions
- Over rice for an even heartier meal
- With warm cornbread or soft dinner rolls
- Paired with grilled cheese sandwiches
- Ladled over mashed potatoes
- With a simple green salad to balance the richness
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making day-two stew even better.
Freezer:
Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating:
Warm gently over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the stew if needed.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
(Approximate values based on 10 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
OTHER RECIPES YOU MIGHT ENJOY
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- Easy Ritz Cracker Toffee – A Quick Holiday Treat
- Easy Chewy Maple Cinnamon Cookies with White Chocolate
FAQ About Shipwreck Stew
What is Shipwreck Stew?
Shipwreck Stew is a traditional, budget-friendly one-pot meal made using layers of meat, potatoes, vegetables, and canned goods. The name comes from its “everything in one pot” style that resembles recipes created in tough times or emergency situations. Despite its humble origins, it’s now known as a cozy, dependable family dinner.
Can I make this Shipwreck Stew on the stovetop instead of a Crock Pot?
Absolutely. For a stovetop version, follow the same steps, but instead of layering in a slow cooker, layer everything into a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Does Shipwreck Stew freeze well?
Yes—this recipe freezes beautifully. The hearty vegetables and beans hold up well after thawing. Make sure to cool the stew completely before freezing and leave a bit of room in containers for expansion.
Can I use different types of beans?
Definitely. Kidney beans are traditional, but black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas work well. Choose what you enjoy or what you have on hand.
How can I make this stew healthier?
Use lean ground turkey or chicken, increase the vegetables, reduce added salt, and swap corn for peas or carrots. You can also use low-sodium canned products to reduce the overall sodium content.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Shipwreck Stew in the Crock Pot is proof that simple recipes can deliver huge comfort. With budget-friendly ingredients and effortless slow-cooker cooking, it’s a go-to dinner for busy families, meal prepping, or cold nights when you want something warm and nourishing. Once you make it, you’ll understand why this recipe has stayed popular for generations—it’s dependable, delicious, and endlessly adaptable.For more inspiration, check out this Easy Pumpkin Pie Tacos — A Fun Fall Dessert or explore more on Pinterest for your next meal idea!