The aroma wafting through the kitchen is nothing short of enchanting, a warm hug in the form of Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. As the hours tick by, tender chunks of beef soak up a medley of savory broth and seasonings, transforming into a dish that feels like a comforting embrace on a chilly evening. This ultimate comfort food not only creates a hearty meal but also allows for incredibly easy prep—perfect for busy home chefs who crave something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re gathering family around the table or just treating yourself, this dish brings those nostalgic diner vibes right into your home. Ready to dig in and uncover the secret to a comforting meal that warms both heart and soul? Why is Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan irresistible? Simplicity: With minimal prep and a few key ingredients, getting this dish started is a breeze. Rich, Savory Depth: The combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic creates a robust flavor profile that will have you coming back for seconds. Hearty Comfort: Indulge in tender, shreddable beef served over creamy mashed potatoes, making every bite a delight. Versatile: Adapt it easily by swapping in chicken or adding fresh veggies like carrots or peas for a nutritious boost. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress. You might even want to serve it alongside a crisp salad for balance or explore more comforting recipes like Ground Beef Potatoes that satisfy your cravings! Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Ingredients • For the Beef and Broth Beef Roast – Use chuck or round for the best flavor and tenderness. Beef Broth – A flavorful base; opt for low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake. Worcestershire Sauce – Adds rich umami; tamari can substitute for a gluten-free option. Soy Sauce – Provides depth; choose gluten-free if needed. • For the Vegetables and Seasonings Onion – Sliced medium onion adds natural sweetness and depth; caramelization improves flavor. Garlic Powder – Use for a punch of flavor, or switch to fresh garlic for an aromatic boost. Onion Powder – Enhances the onion flavor and adds a layer of complexity. Dried Thyme – Imbues herbaceous notes; Italian seasoning can work as a substitute. Black Pepper & Salt – Adjust these to taste; seasoning is key for maximizing flavor. • For Thickening and Serving Cornstarch – Use to create a thick, luxurious gravy; mix with cold water for a smooth slurry. Bread – Soft white or Texas toast provides a perfect base for this hearty meal. Mashed Potatoes – Serve a creamy dollop for that comforting balance; homemade or store-bought works well. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Step 1: Prepare the Base Begin by slicing a medium onion and spreading it evenly on the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. The onions will caramelize gently during cooking, infusing the beef with sweetness and depth. Step 2: Add the Beef Next, lay your chosen beef roast on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Opt for a chuck or round roast, as these cuts become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Make sure it’s snug in there, allowing the juices to mingle beautifully as it cooks. Step 3: Pour the Broth and Sauces Carefully pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the roast. This savory liquid will enhance the overall flavor profile of your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, creating a rich and comforting base. Ensure that the liquid covers about two-thirds of the meat for optimal results. Step 4: Season the Beef Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt over the roast and the broth. These seasonings will bring a wonderful aroma and taste to the dish as it cooks. Feel free to adjust the seasoning amounts based on your personal preference for a truly customized flavor. Step 5: Set the Slow Cooker Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours. The key visual cue to watch for is when the beef is fork-tender—this indicates it’s ready for shredding. You can walk away while the magic happens! Step 6: Shred the Beef Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. This step releases rich juices that can drip back into the pot, ensuring all flavors are preserved for the finish. Step 7: Thicken the Gravy Strain the broth in the slow cooker to remove any solids, then return it to the pot. To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the broth and turn the cooker to HIGH for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken and become luscious. Step 8: Serve the Dish To assemble your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, start with a slice of soft white bread on each plate. Top it with creamy mashed potatoes, followed by a generous serving of the shredded beef. Finally, ladle the thickened gravy over the top for that ultimate comfort food experience. Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Variations Feel free to get creative and make this comforting dish your own with these delightful twists! Chicken Option: Swap the beef roast for chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter take on this dish. Chicken will still provide a juicy, flavorful base. Vegetable Boost: Toss in chopped carrots, peas, or even bell peppers into the slow cooker for a vibrant nutrition boost, adding color and flavor to your meal. Spicy Heat: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the slow cooker for a zesty kick that wakes up your taste buds. Herb Swap: Experiment with substitutes like fresh rosemary or sage for a fragrant and aromatic twist that transforms the dish into something new and exciting. Alternative Thickener: Instead of cornstarch, try using arrowroot powder or flour for thickening—each will impart a slightly different texture to the gravy, but both are equally delicious. These variations not only make the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan adaptable but also let you explore your palate. Enjoy incorporating these ideas, and don’t forget to check out delicious recipes like Slow Cooker Chicken for more cozy home-cooked inspirations! What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan? The comfort of a hearty meal deserves an equally delightful spread to accompany it, enhancing your dining experience. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing, their buttery richness perfectly balances the savory beef and gravy. Each spoonful plays harmoniously with the tender beef, making every bite a comforting delight. Crunchy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a crisp contrast that cuts through the dish’s richness. Its tangy snap is the perfect complement, offering a delightful texture to your plate. Garlic Toast: Crispy and golden, garlic toast serves as the ideal vehicle for savoring every drop of gravy. Spread with butter and roasted garlic, it elevates the meal to a whole new level. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans can bring a vibrant finish to your plate. Their earthy flavors and slight char harmonize beautifully with the beef’s richness. Side Salad: A crisp garden salad topped with fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette lightens the meal and adds a refreshing element. This balance between warm and cool will keep your taste buds dancing. Red Wine: A medium-bodied red, like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, will pair wonderfully with the deep flavors of the beef. Its fruity nuances complement the savory dish, making every sip a perfect match. Make Ahead Options These Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the onions and season the beef roast up to 24 hours in advance, storing them together in an airtight container in the refrigerator to lock in freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the cornstarch slurry ahead of time and keep it in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to cook, simply place everything in the slow cooker and pour in the broth. This saves time on busy weeknights, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on enjoying your evening. Remember, even with meal prep, this dish remains just as delicious and comforting! Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Choose Quality Beef: Selecting a well-marbled chuck or round roast will ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. Don’t skimp here—this is key for a delicious Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; the beef should be fork-tender but not overdone. Adjust based on your slow cooker’s settings, especially if you’re cooking on high. Perfect Gravy Thickness: For a silky gravy, remember to let the cornstarch slurry cook for a few minutes until thickened. This avoids any raw taste and enhances the flavor of your dish. Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add in vegetables like carrots or peas for additional nutrients and flavors. This way, your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan becomes even heartier! Season to Taste: The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. Always taste and adjust seasonings like pepper and salt before serving to enhance the comfort food experience. Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Fridge: Store leftover Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the beef tender for your next meal. Freezer: You can freeze portions of the dish for up to 3 months. Be sure to separate the gravy and beef from the bread and mashed potatoes before sealing in airtight containers. Reheating: For best results, gradually reheat the beef and gravy on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently. If frozen, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid Moisture: When storing, place a paper towel inside the container lid to absorb excess moisture, ensuring the beef remains juicy upon reheating. Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe FAQs How do I know if my beef roast is the right cut? For the best results, opt for well-marbled cuts like chuck or round roast. These cuts become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Look for beef with a nice amount of fat through it—this fat will melt away during cooking, enhancing the richness of your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors preserved and the beef tender for your next meal. Be sure to reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain its comforting texture. Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan? How? Absolutely! You can freeze portions of this dish for up to 3 months. To do this, separate the beef and gravy from the bread and mashed potatoes. Place the beef and gravy in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gradually on the stovetop. What if my gravy isn’t thick enough? If your gravy is too thin, don’t worry! Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker while the broth is still cooking on HIGH. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness. This method ensures a luscious gravy that clings beautifully to your shredded beef. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, simply substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. To make it lighter, you can also use turkey or chicken instead of beef. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens, and feel free to customize seasonings according to dietary preferences. How do I check if my beef is properly cooked? The visual cue to look for is fork-tender beef. After cooking on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, use a fork to gently pull at the meat; it should easily shred apart. If it still feels tough, give it a little more time—it may need an extra half hour, depending on your slow cooker and the exact cut of beef you’ve chosen. Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan: A Hearty Comfort Food Delight Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan offers tender beef in a savory broth, creating a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly evenings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 8 hours hrsTotal Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Beef and Broth3 pounds Beef Roast (chuck or round)4 cups Beef Broth low-sodium preferred2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce tamari for gluten-free2 tablespoons Soy Sauce gluten-free if neededFor the Vegetables and Seasonings1 medium Onion, sliced for sweetness and depth1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh garlic1 teaspoon Onion Powder1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Italian seasoning can substituteto taste Black Pepper adjust to tasteto taste Salt adjust to tasteFor Thickening and Serving2 tablespoons Cornstarch mixed with cold water6 slices Bread (soft white or Texas toast)3 cups Mashed Potatoes homemade or store-bought Equipment Slow Cooker Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by slicing a medium onion and spreading it evenly on the bottom of your slow cooker.Next, lay your chosen beef roast on top of the onions in the slow cooker.Carefully pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the roast.Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt over the roast and broth.Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the beef and place it on a cutting board to shred.Strain the broth in the slow cooker to remove any solids, then return it to the pot.To thicken the gravy, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, stir into the broth, and let thicken.To assemble, start with a slice of bread on each plate, top with mashed potatoes, then shredded beef, and gravy. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 40gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 15mg NotesMonitor cooking time carefully to ensure beef is fork-tender. Customize ingredients by adding vegetables like carrots or peas if desired. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
