In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef for 4–5 minutes. Add diced onion and sauté 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds, then set aside.

In your slow cooker, layer chopped potatoes, sliced carrots, diced celery, and rinsed beans. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Spoon browned beef on top and stir to combine.

Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until veggies are fork-tender and broth thickens.

Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or sour cream if desired.