Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table, let me introduce you to my favorite, Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. This recipe takes tender beef chuck roast and transforms it into a savory delight that simmers all day long, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to come home to a delicious meal or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy.

There’s something truly special about Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. The combination of sweet onions, garlic, and carrots melds together to create a rich gravy that makes each bite unforgettable. Plus, the best part is that your slow cooker does all the hard work while you relax and spend quality time with loved ones. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply chop, toss, and let your slow cooker do the magic!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: A hearty meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy days; just set it in the morning and enjoy later.
• Rich Flavor: The savory gravy and tender beef create an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over mashed potatoes, noodles, or even rice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store!

For the Beef

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Vegetables

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

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers or peas for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Enhance flavor with spices like paprika or bay leaves.
• Swap the Protein: Try using chicken thighs or turkey if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce if needed.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by cutting your beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes. This size helps ensure even cooking throughout the dish. If you have time, searing the beef in a skillet until browned on all sides adds extra flavor through caramelization. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Next, chop your onions and mince the garlic. Place them in the slow cooker along with sliced carrots and optional diced potatoes. These veggies not only contribute great flavor but also add nutritional value to your meal.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now, place your seared beef into the slow cooker. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and enough beef broth to cover everything nicely. Stir gently to combine all those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 8 hours or high for around 4 hours. Cooking on low allows flavors to develop more deeply while ensuring that beef becomes tender and easy to shred.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you’d like a thicker gravy, mix some cornstarch with water (a slurry) and stir it in until you’ve reached your desired consistency. Now it’s time to dish up this comforting meal over mashed potatoes or egg noodles—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Cooking is a journey, and with these pro tips, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also stress-free!

• Sear the meat for flavor: Browning the beef chuck roast in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the depth of flavor, giving your dish that rich, savory taste.

• Use fresh herbs: If possible, opt for fresh thyme instead of dried. Fresh herbs have a more vibrant flavor that can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition. They bring color and additional nutrients while complementing the beef wonderfully.

• Thicken the gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water (a cornstarch slurry) and stir it into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. This will give your sauce a luscious texture.

• Let it rest before serving: After cooking, let the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Serving your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or chives: Chopped fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich gravy.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving enhances the dish’s savory notes.

Side Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The classic choice! Creamy mashed potatoes soak up all that delicious gravy, making each bite heavenly.
• Egg Noodles: Lightly buttered egg noodles provide a simple yet satisfying base for the beef and its sauce.
• Steamed Green Beans: These add a vibrant color and crunch to your plate while offering a nice contrast to the tender beef.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and seasonings, roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the beef.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan will shine at any meal! Enjoy every bite with those you love around you.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the beef Manhattan to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion the beef Manhattan into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• For stovetop reheating, warm on medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan.

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

You can certainly experiment with other cuts like brisket or round roast. Just ensure they have enough marbling for tenderness during cooking!

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

To thicken the gravy, mix equal parts cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How do I make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan spicier?

If you want some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to your slow cooker. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope that you enjoy making this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that brings everyone together and fills your home with delightful aromas. Don’t hesitate to add your own twist with favorite veggies or spices; this recipe is all about making it yours. Happy cooking!