The aroma wafting from the kitchen brings a wave of warmth, instantly transporting me back to cozy family dinners. Today’s star of the show is the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, a classic American comfort food that’s become a cherished staple in our home. This dish combines tender, juicy beef simmered in a savory broth with the delightful accompaniment of creamy mashed potatoes and toasted bread, all generously drizzled with a luscious gravy. One of the best things about this recipe is how effortlessly it transforms a busy evening into a hearty feast, letting the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will make everyone feel right at home. Are you ready to savor this nostalgic meal that invites everyone back to the table? Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try? Comforting Deliciousness: Every bite of the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is packed with nostalgia and warmth, evoking memories of home-cooked meals shared with family. Effortless Preparation: Simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic—perfect for busy nights! Savory Gravy: The rich, thick gravy elevates the dish, soaking into fluffy bread and creamy mashed potatoes for maximum flavor. Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or switch up the herbs, making this recipe adaptable to your taste while keeping it hearty. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress guests at your next gathering. Pair it with a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal that satisfies all ages! Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Ingredients Get ready to savor every bite! For the Beef 2 pounds beef roast (chuck or round) – This is the main protein that becomes juicy and tender. Substitute: Brisket for a slightly different flavor. For the Broth 1 medium onion, sliced – Enhances the savory flavor in the broth. Note: Can use shallots for a milder taste. 2 cups beef broth – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version. 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Provides umami richness; substitute with soy sauce for a similar effect. 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Contributes savory depth; use low-sodium if preferred. For the Seasoning 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds aromatic flavor; substitute with fresh minced garlic (1-2 cloves). 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the onion flavor. 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Offers a fragrant herbal note; substitute with Italian seasoning for a different profile. 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adjust according to taste. 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth. For Thickening the Gravy 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry) – Thickens the gravy, making it luxurious and rich. For Serving 6 slices of bread (white or Texas toast) – Acts as a base for the dish, absorbing flavors well; substitute with whole-grain bread for added fiber. 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or prepared) – Provides a creamy layer that balances richness; leave some skins on for added texture and nutrients. Get these ingredients ready, and let’s create a dish that’ll make everyone feel at home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Step 1: Prepare the Base Start by placing the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. This creates a flavorful base for the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. The onions will infuse the broth with their sweetness as they cook. Make sure the onions are evenly spread out to cover the bottom completely. Step 2: Add the Beef Next, take your seasoned beef roast and lay it on top of the onions in the slow cooker. This allows the beef to absorb the rich flavors from the onions below. Gently press down to ensure it makes contact with the onions, ensuring even cooking as it simmers. Step 3: Pour in the Broth Now it’s time to pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the beef. This mixture will create a luscious broth that seeps into the meat. Make sure the liquids cover at least half of the beef, allowing it to tenderize beautifully during the cooking process. Step 4: Season the Brisket Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt evenly across the top of the beef. This seasoning blend will enhance the flavor profile of your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, ensuring a savory, mouthwatering result. The spices will mix into the broth as the dish cooks. Step 5: Set Up for Cooking Cover the slow cooker with its lid, allowing it to seal in the moisture. Set your slow cooker to LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours. The goal is to achieve fork-tender beef that easily shreds, so choose the setting that fits your schedule best. Step 6: Shred the Beef Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker using tongs. Place the beef on a cutting board and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This will enhance the texture and allow the beef to soak up more of that delicious gravy later. Step 7: Strain the Broth Next, strain the onions from the broth using a fine-mesh sieve, returning only the liquid back to the slow cooker. This step removes any large onion pieces, leaving a smooth broth that will become the gravy. Give it a gentle stir to incorporate the flavors. Step 8: Thicken the Gravy In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the broth in the slow cooker, allowing it to thicken. Cook it on HIGH for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency, becoming rich and luxurious. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy To serve your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, layer a slice of bread on each plate. Top it with a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes, followed by the shredded beef. Finally, ladle that thick gravy over the entire dish for the ultimate comfort food experience that will warm your soul. How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the juicy flavors of your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan while preventing spoilage. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them for easy identification when hunger strikes! Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the gravy’s richness and the beef’s tenderness. Add a splash of broth if needed for moisture. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture. Enjoy those cozy flavors all over again! Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Variations Embrace your culinary creativity and let this recipe adapt to your tastes and preferences! Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk for the mashed potatoes instead of butter and cream for a lighter version. In addition, this keeps the heartiness while allowing everyone to enjoy the dish without concern. Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed carrots, green beans, or peas to the slow cooker for added nutrition and color. This not only enhances flavor but also creates a delightful medley of textures that everyone will love. Italian Twist: Swap out the thyme for Italian seasoning to infuse a new layer of flavor. Enjoy a delicious fusion that offers the comforting feel of Italy, perfect for family gatherings! Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the broth for a zesty surprise. This will provide a warm heat that balances beautifully with the richness of the beef and gravy. Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of dried thyme to brighten up the flavors. Fresh herbs can transform this dish, making it feel fresh and inviting for any occasion. Toppings Galore: Consider topping the dish with crispy fried onions or fresh parsley for an added crunch or color. This extra touch adds a delightful contrast to the tender beef and creamy potatoes. Different Bread Options: Try using sourdough or a crusty French baguette instead of Texas toast for a rustic feel. Each type of bread adds its unique character, making this dish versatile and enjoyable any way you serve it! For more cozy recipes, check out Savory Ground Beef Cabbage Stir Fry or Cheesy Rotel Beef Dip. These hearty dishes combine well and satisfy every appetite! Make Ahead Options Preparing Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can season the beef roast and store it in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, slice the onion and place it together with the broth ingredients in an airtight container for even easier assembly. On the day you plan to serve, simply place everything in your slow cooker and cook as directed. This method ensures your meal is still just as delicious while allowing you to focus on other tasks. Remember to thicken the gravy just before serving for that lush and rich consistency that makes this dish so comforting! Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Choose Quality Beef: Select a well-marbled beef roast for optimal tenderness; this enhances the slow-cooked flavor and texture of your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. Don’t Skip the Slurry: For a rich and thick gravy, mixing a cornstarch slurry is essential. Forgetting this step may leave you with a watery sauce. Rest Before Shredding: Allowing the beef to rest a few minutes before shredding retains its juices, making every bite flavorful and moist. Monitor Cooking Time: To avoid dryness, keep a close eye on your cooking time. Overcooking can lead to tough beef instead of the intended tenderness. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust spices or add your favorite herbs; personalizing your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan can take this classic dish to the next level! What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan As the savory aroma fills the air, let’s elevate this nostalgic dish into a memorable meal enjoyed by all. Crispy Green Salad: A light salad with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich beef. Steamed Broccoli: Tender, vibrant broccoli adds a splash of color and nutrients, balancing out the hearty flavors of the dish. Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots enhance the comforting vibe while providing a pop of natural sweetness to every bite. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn, slathered in butter, is the perfect side to accompany the robust flavors of the beef and gravy. Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the luscious gravy, this flavorful bread adds a delightful crunch to your plate. It’s simply irresistible! Homemade Apple Pie: For dessert, treat your family to a slice of warm apple pie, serving as a sweet finish to this comfort food feast. Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, harmonizes beautifully with the savory notes of the beef. Creamy Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw introduces a zesty element that brightens up the meal while pairing beautifully with the tender beef. Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe FAQs How do I select the best beef for this recipe? Absolutely! For the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, choose a well-marbled beef roast like chuck or round. Marbling refers to the thin streaks of fat within the meat, which ensures tenderness and flavor. I often recommend checking for a bit of extra fat on the outside too, as it enhances the cooking process, keeping the beef juicy and rich. How should I store leftovers? Very simply! Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the beef cool down first to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can! Pour servings into airtight freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep the texture creamy and delicious. What if my beef turns out tough? If you find your beef is tougher than expected, it may have been undercooked or cooked on too high of a heat setting. For best results, make sure to cook on LOW for the recommended time of 8 hours, as this allows connective tissues to break down and become tender. If undercooked, you can always return the shredded beef to the slow cooker with some broth and let it cook longer until tender. Is this recipe safe for pets? I recommend being cautious! While the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients like onions or garlic for humans, it’s best to avoid giving your pets any portion of this dish. Cooked beef without spices can be a great occasional treat for dogs, but always consult your vet for advice tailored to your pet. Can I use different vegetables in this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. You can toss them in during the last hour of cooking to keep them tender but not mushy. This flexibility makes the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan even heartier and more satisfying! Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan: Hearty Comfort in Every Bite Experience Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, a hearty comfort food packed with flavor and nostalgia, perfect for family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 platesCourse: BeefCuisine: AmericanCalories: 650 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef2 pounds beef roast (chuck or round) Substitute: Brisket for a slightly different flavor.For the Broth1 medium onion, sliced Can use shallots for a milder taste.2 cups beef broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version.2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Substitute with soy sauce for a similar effect.1 tablespoon soy sauce Use low-sodium if preferred.For the Seasoning1 teaspoon garlic powder Substitute with fresh minced garlic (1-2 cloves).1 teaspoon onion powder1 teaspoon dried thyme Substitute with Italian seasoning for a different profile.1 teaspoon black pepper Adjust according to taste.1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth.For Thickening the Gravy2 tablespoons cornstarch2 tablespoons cold water For slurry.For Serving6 slices bread (white or Texas toast) Substitute with whole-grain bread for added fiber.4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or prepared) Leave some skins on for added texture and nutrients. Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStep 1: Prepare the Base - Start by placing the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker to create a flavorful base.Step 2: Add the Beef - Lay the seasoned beef roast on top of the onions, pressing down to ensure contact.Step 3: Pour in the Broth - Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the beef, ensuring liquids cover at least half of the beef.Step 4: Season the Brisket - Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt evenly across the beef.Step 5: Set Up for Cooking - Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 to 5 hours.Step 6: Shred the Beef - Once cooking is done, remove the beef and shred it into bite-sized pieces.Step 7: Strain the Broth - Strain the onions from the broth, returning only the liquid back to the slow cooker.Step 8: Thicken the Gravy - Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir into broth to thicken.Step 9: Serve and Enjoy - Layer a slice of bread, top with mashed potatoes, shredded beef, and ladle gravy over the dish. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 50gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesChoose quality beef for optimal tenderness; don't skip the slurry for thick gravy; rest beef before shredding to retain juices. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
