This slow cooker minced beef and sweet potato stew is like a warm hug in a bowl—savory, filling, and just a touch sweet from the tender potatoes. The tomato base adds a gentle richness, while fresh herbs bring it all together in the best way.

It’s the perfect dish for unwinding on a chilly evening. I like making extra because it’s even better the next day. Serve it with a little Savoy cabbage on the side, and you’re set! This is one of those make-ahead dishes that makes the week feel a bit easier, giving you cozy, homemade goodness in a snap.

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Recipe Ingredients

• 1 tbsp sunflower oil
• 500g (1lb 2oz) lean minced beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 1 celery stick, sliced
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 tbsp mushroom ketchup
• 400g can chopped tomatoes
• 450g (1lb) sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
• Few sprigs of thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Handful of parsley, chopped
• Steamed and shredded Savoy cabbage, for serving

How To Make Slow Cooker Minced Beef & Sweet Potato Stew

1. Preheat Your Slow Cooker: If your slow cooker requires preheating, turn it on now to be ready for the stew. In a large frying pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat, add the minced beef, and cook until browned thoroughly, ensuring it’s evenly colored.
2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker pot, then add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, tomato purée, mushroom ketchup, and chopped tomatoes. Add the sweet potato chunks, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and 200ml (7 fl oz) of water.
3. Season and Stir: Season with salt and pepper to taste, stir everything to combine well, and cover the pot tightly with the lid.
4. Slow Cook on Low: Set your slow cooker to Low and let the stew cook for 6 to 8 hours. This will allow the beef to become tender and the sweet potatoes to soften perfectly.
5. Final Touches: Once the stew is fully cooked, carefully remove the bay leaf and discard it. Stir in the chopped parsley to add a fresh, vibrant flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the stew hot with a side of shredded and steamed Savoy cabbage for a comforting, balanced meal.

Recipe Tips

• To add more depth, try browning the minced beef until it’s caramelized before adding it to the slow cooker, giving the stew a richer, more complex flavor.
• If you like extra heat, add a pinch of red chili flakes or a chopped fresh chili pepper to bring a little kick to the stew.
• For a slightly sweet twist, substitute half of the sweet potatoes with diced butternut squash, which adds a subtle, natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• Want a thicker stew? Stir in a spoonful of cornstarch mixed with water during the last 30 minutes of cooking to help thicken the sauce.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Irish Lamb, Barley and Potato Stew
• Slow Cooker Beef and Guinness Stew With Buttermilk Dumplings
• Brazilian Pork Stew with Corn Dumplings