Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

If you’re looking for a meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is just what you need. This dish has been a family favorite for years, and for good reason! It transforms tender beef chuck roast into a rich, savory delight that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The aroma wafting through your home while it simmers is simply irresistible. Plus, who can resist gathering around the table to share a hearty meal together?

With its simple ingredients and effortless preparation, this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is designed to bring everyone together. Imagine serving it over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles—the ultimate satisfying comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do all the work!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep; just set it and forget it until dinnertime.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet onions, garlic, and tender beef creates an unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a few simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beef

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 medium sweet onions, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced

For the Gravy

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

For the Veggies

• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes (optional), diced

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or turkey if you’re looking for something different!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, peas, or even mushrooms to boost nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add paprika or bay leaves to enhance the flavor profile.
• Make it a stew: If you prefer a thicker consistency, thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry towards the end.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting your beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes. While you’re at it, chop those sweet onions and mince the garlic. This step sets the foundation for your dish; fresh ingredients mean better flavor!

Step 2: Optional Searing

If you have time, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step adds depth to the flavor but is totally optional. It’s up to you whether you want that extra touch!

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Place your seared beef (if you chose to sear) in the slow cooker along with chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, diced potatoes (if using), dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and enough beef broth to cover everything. This mixture needs to be cozy together for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is incredibly tender. This slow cooking process allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you’d like a thicker gravy, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with water and stir it into your pot. Let it cook for another few minutes until thickened.

Enjoy your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan surrounded by loved ones—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Creating a delicious Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Sear the beef: If you have the time, searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor and creates a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth to your gravy.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme can brighten up the dish and add a more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs. If you can, opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible.

• Adjust seasoning gradually: It’s best to taste your dish before serving and adjust seasoning like salt and pepper as needed. This helps avoid over-seasoning early in the cooking process.

• Thicken the gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk together equal parts cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition. Mixing in different vegetables can also enhance both flavor and texture.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is all about creating a comforting atmosphere around your dinner table. With its hearty flavors, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich gravy beautifully.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The ultimate pairing! Their buttery richness absorbs all that flavorful gravy, making every mouthful delightful.

• Egg noodles: These soft noodles are perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce, offering a comforting alternative to potatoes.

• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring balance with their freshness and crunch, making them an excellent contrast to the hearty beef.

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their nutty flavor adds depth, while roasting brings out natural sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy creating lasting memories around your dining table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty flavors throughout the week without the daily cooking hassle. Here’s how to store and manage your delicious leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely at room temperature.
• Transfer the beef and gravy into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Place the cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely, and heat on medium power in short intervals.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan:

Can I make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan without searing the beef?

Yes! While searing adds flavor, you can skip this step and simply add all ingredients directly into the slow cooker. The end result will still be deliciously tender.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

To boost flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or bay leaves, or throw in extra veggies such as bell peppers or peas. These additions can elevate your dish even further!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

This comforting dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a side of crusty bread. Don’t forget a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal!

How do I know when the beef is done cooking?

The beef is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds apart. Cooking times may vary based on your slow cooker settings, so check for tenderness towards the end of your cooking time.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan as much as I do! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings family together. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!