Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your home, you’ve found it in this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. This recipe is one of those cherished ones that fills the air with delicious aromas and creates a sense of togetherness. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Cooking with a slow cooker is like having an extra set of hands in the kitchen. You can toss in simple ingredients, set the timer, and go about your day while it works its magic. With tender beef chuck roast simmered in rich gravy alongside sweet onions and carrots, every bite is packed with flavor. Trust me; you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Just chop and toss ingredients into the slow cooker—no fuss!
• Hearty and satisfying: Perfectly cooked beef paired with savory gravy makes for a filling meal.
• Family-friendly: Kids love it, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Flexible options: Customize with your favorite vegetables or side dishes for variety.
• Make-ahead convenience: Set it up in the morning, and come home to a delicious dinner ready to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Each component adds its own special touch to the dish, creating layers of flavor that everyone will adore.

For the Beef

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes

For the Vegetables

• 2 medium sweet onions, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes (optional), diced

For the Gravy

• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! It’s wonderfully flexible, allowing you to adjust based on what you have or what flavors you love best.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or turkey for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add paprika or bay leaves to enhance the flavor profile.
• Switch the base: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles—whatever suits your taste!

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes. This size allows for even cooking and keeps the meat tender. Next, chop your sweet onions and mince the garlic. These aromatics are essential for building that wonderful base flavor.

Step 2: Sear (Optional)

If you’d like an extra layer of flavor, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step caramelizes the meat’s surface, adding depth to your final dish.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place your seared beef (if you chose to sear) into the slow cooker along with chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, optional diced potatoes, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and enough beef broth to cover everything. The broth will help keep everything moist while infusing all those flavors together.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is fork-tender. This long cooking time allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Final Touches

Before serving, taste your dish and adjust seasoning if needed. If you’d like a thicker gravy, mix some cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into your dish during the last few minutes of cooking.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan! Enjoy every warm bite surrounded by family or friends—it truly is a comforting meal made with love!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Creating the perfect Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips that can elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your meal turns out delicious every time.

• Sear the beef for added flavor: While it’s optional, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker caramelizes the meat, enhancing its flavor and creating a deeper, richer gravy.

• Choose the right broth: Using low-sodium beef broth allows you to control the saltiness of your dish while still providing plenty of flavor. This is especially important if you plan to add additional seasonings.

• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition. Not only do they add color, but they also contribute to a more balanced meal.

• Adjust thickness of gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water (a slurry) and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help achieve that restaurant-quality texture!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the flavors and makes serving easier.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Serving your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to make this hearty dish truly shine at your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or thyme: Chopping some fresh herbs as a garnish adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Sour cream or dairy-free alternative: A dollop of sour cream or its alternatives on top adds a creamy texture that complements the savory notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Soft, buttery mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that soaks up the savory gravy perfectly. You can make them with plant-based butter for a vegan twist!

• Egg Noodles: Cooked egg noodles provide a delightful base for soaking up all those delicious juices from the beef and gravy. Toss them with a little olive oil or plant-based butter for added flavor.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These earthy greens roasted until crispy balance out the richness of the beef and make for an excellent side option that’s also packed with nutrients.

• Green Salad: A fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette offers a crunchy contrast to the tender beef, making your meal feel lighter and more refreshing. You can include seasonal veggies for added color and flavor!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set for an incredible dining experience featuring Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is not only a delightful meal to enjoy fresh but also makes for an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily store leftovers or make it ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious dinners ready to go throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the beef Manhattan into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• For microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other cuts of beef for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can use brisket or round steak as alternatives. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

How do I thicken the gravy in my Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

To thicken your gravy, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into your slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give you a rich, velvety sauce!

Can I add different vegetables to my Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

Certainly! Feel free to customize your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even mushrooms. Just keep in mind that softer veggies may cook down more than heartier ones.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan on low?

Cooking on low usually takes about 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the beef incredibly tender.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that brings family and friends together. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!