Name: Shipwreck Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 2 potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or mixed beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce or tomato soup; 2 cups beef broth or water; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: 1 cup corn, 1 cup green beans, 1 bell pepper (chopped), 1 tsp Italian seasoning, pinch of chili flakes

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Shipwreck Stew is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that combines ground beef, vegetables, and beans into a warm, comforting stew that’s full of flavor. I love how it feels like something my grandmother would’ve made—simple, rustic, and deeply satisfying. It’s one of those meals I can throw together with pantry staples and still feed a crowd with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s comforting, economical, and incredibly easy to make. It’s all cooked in one pot, and I usually have most of the ingredients on hand. Despite how simple it looks, the flavors come together beautifully as it simmers. It’s kid-friendly, filling, and great for leftovers, which makes it one of my favorite go-to meals for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Carrots, sliced
Celery, chopped
Potatoes, peeled and diced
Canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
Canned kidney beans or mixed beans, drained and rinsed
Tomato sauce or tomato soup
Beef broth or water
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
Optional: corn, green beans, bell pepper, Italian seasoning

Directions

I start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. I break it up as it cooks and season it with salt and pepper.
Once the beef is mostly browned, I add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.
I stir in the carrots, celery, potatoes, canned tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth. I add a splash of Worcestershire sauce and season everything with salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
I bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. I let it simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
I stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 to 8 hearty servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: About 55 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor. I’ve also added frozen corn or green beans toward the end of cooking for extra veggies. When I want it spicier, I toss in a pinch of chili flakes or use Rotel tomatoes. For a thicker, chili-like texture, I reduce the broth and let it simmer uncovered longer.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats perfectly in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. This stew also freezes well—just cool it completely before storing in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Why is it called Shipwreck Stew?

The name comes from the idea of “throwing together whatever’s left” in the pantry—like surviving a shipwreck. I love that rustic, resourceful vibe.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

What kind of beans work best?

I usually use kidney beans, but I’ve also used pinto, black, or even baked beans. Whatever I have on hand works just fine.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely. I leave out the beef and add more beans or lentils. I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a flavorful, meatless version.

Does this taste better the next day?

Yes, I think it does. The flavors deepen overnight, making it one of those dishes that’s even better as leftovers.

Conclusion

Shipwreck Stew is one of those humble, feel-good meals that proves simple food can still be incredibly delicious. Whether I’m feeding a big family, cleaning out the pantry, or just craving something warm and homey, this stew always delivers. It’s comforting, customizable, and a perfect example of how a little can go a long way.