Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then look no further than this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. This recipe is like a big hug in a bowl, with tender pieces of beef chuck roast simmered in a savory gravy full of sweet onions, garlic, and colorful carrots. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for family gatherings, bringing everyone together around the dinner table.

What makes this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan special is how effortless it is to prepare. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the magic. You can spend that time enjoying your loved ones instead of stressing over the stove. Trust me; this meal will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply chop, mix, and let your slow cooker work its magic—no fuss involved!
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors and tender meat please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning, and come home to a deliciously cooked meal waiting for you.
• Flexibility: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of beef broth, onions, and herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this comforting dish, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan:

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 Broth and Seasoning

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

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 personal preferences:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Swap the Protein: Try using chicken thighs or even tofu for a different twist.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate paprika or bay leaves for extra flavor depth.
• Change Your Base: Serve it over creamy polenta or rice instead of mashed potatoes or egg noodles.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes. Chop up those sweet onions and mince your garlic. This step is crucial because having everything prepped makes assembly quick and gives you a head start on flavoring!

Step 2: Optional Searing

If you’re feeling fancy (or just want that extra depth of flavor), heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until it’s browned on all sides. This caramelization adds richness to your dish but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker

Place your seared beef (or raw if skipping that step) into the slow cooker along with onions, garlic, sliced carrots, diced potatoes (if using), thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and enough beef broth to cover everything. Making sure everything is submerged helps infuse those flavors beautifully during cooking.

Step 4: Cook Low & Slow

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

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Before serving, adjust any seasoning as needed. If you’d like a thicker gravy, mix some cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the mixture until thickened. Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Creating a flavorful and tender Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan can be easy with just a few helpful tips!

• Sear the beef first: Browning the beef in a skillet prior to adding it to the slow cooker enhances the depth of flavor in your dish, creating a richer gravy that will impress your family and friends.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a vibrant flavor profile compared to dried herbs. If you have access, consider using fresh thyme for an aromatic boost that brightens your meal.

• Add vegetables wisely: Including root vegetables like carrots and potatoes not only adds nutrition but also helps absorb the savory flavors of the broth, making every bite delightful.

• Thicken your gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into your slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a luscious sauce.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together even more, ensuring each bite is as delicious as possible.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is all about presentation and complementing its rich flavors. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness, cutting through the richness of the dish.
• Green onions: Finely sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor and add a nice crunch on top of your beef manhattan.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These classic mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the savory gravy from your beef, creating an indulgent combination that’s hard to resist.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the hearty flavors of the beef.
• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is great for sopping up any leftover gravy, making every bit of this meal enjoyable.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and seasoning, roasted Brussels sprouts bring a slight crispness and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender beef.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that brings everyone together around the table! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Item: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Item: Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Item: Portion out the leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Item: Leave some space at the top of containers to allow for expansion when freezing.
• Item: Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Item: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Item: Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe.

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

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

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

You can thicken your gravy by mixing cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into your slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving; it will help achieve that perfect consistency.

What side dishes go well with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice. Steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli also make a delightful accompaniment.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or any of your favorite veggies. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require slight adjustments in cooking time.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy and comfort in making this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan! It’s more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share stories with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to make it your own! Happy cooking!