Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a comforting dish that blends hearty flavors with the ease of a slow cooker. This recipe holds a special place in my kitchen for its simplicity and the way it warms the heart and soul. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a chilly weekend, this savory delight brings family and friends together around the dinner table. When you take that first bite of tender beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy, you’ll understand why it’s a go-to meal for so many.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that nourishes both body and spirit. It’s perfect for those colder months when you want something warm and delightful to serve. Not only is it budget-friendly—allowing you to feed a crowd without breaking the bank—but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a bit of prep work, you can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day.
"This dish is a game changer! The beef is so tender that it practically falls apart. Plus, my kids devoured it! It’s now a staple in our home." — Satisfied Cook
Preparing Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Making this dish is straightforward and breaks down into just a few steps. First, we’ll combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and let the flavors meld. While the beef cooks low and slow, we’ll whip up some creamy mashed potatoes. Finally, it all comes together beautifully for a warming, satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need.
Gather These Items
To create your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, prepare the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 8 slices of bread (toasted)
- 2 cups brown gravy
Feel free to use other cuts of beef if you prefer; just remember that the cooking time may change!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by placing the beef chuck roast in the slow cooker. Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper—giving it a good stir to combine.
- Pour the beef broth over the top, ensuring the meat is well-covered.
- Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is fork-tender and full of flavor.
- About 30 minutes before serving, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain. Make sure to mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until they reach the desired creaminess.
- Once the beef is done, shred it and mix it well with the delicious liquid from the slow cooker.
- For serving, place a slice of toasted bread on your plate, top with mashed potatoes, then add the shredded beef, finishing with a good drizzle of brown gravy.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving this dish isn’t just about practicality; it’s an opportunity to create an eye-catching presentation. Arrange the toasted bread as the base, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and shredded beef. To elevate the experience, consider adding some sautéed green beans or a fresh salad on the side. The contrast of textures and flavors makes for a delightful meal.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
For any leftovers, ensure you allow the beef mixture and potatoes to cool before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to save them for longer, you can freeze the beef and gravy, though it’s best to store the mashed potatoes separately to maintain their creamy consistency.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Sometimes, a few simple tricks can make your cooking experience even better. Choose a well-marbled beef chuck roast for enhanced flavor and tenderness. Also, don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce—it adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate. If you want to cut down on prep time, consider using pre-chopped onions or even canned potatoes as a shortcut.
Creative Twists
While the classic version is hard to beat, why not shake things up? You can add in your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or peas, into the slow cooker for additional nutrition. For a spicy kick, a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can really elevate the flavor profile. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the brown gravy for a mushroom or garlic gravy!
Your Questions Answered
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The total cooking time is around 6-8 hours in the slow cooker, but prep time is quick—about 20 minutes.
Can I substitute the beef chuck roast?
Yes, you can use brisket or round roast, but cooking times may vary.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Ingredients
For the beef mixture
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast Choose well-marbled for enhanced flavor
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 large onion, chopped Pre-chopped can be used for convenience
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Essential for depth of flavor
- to taste Salt and pepper
For the mashed potatoes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- to taste Butter, milk, salt, and pepper For mashing the potatoes
For serving
- 8 slices bread (toasted) Use your favorite bread
- 2 cups brown gravy Can substitute with mushroom or garlic gravy for variety
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Place the beef chuck roast in the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
- Pour the beef broth over the top, ensuring the meat is well-covered.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
Mashed Potatoes
- About 30 minutes before serving, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, then drain.
- Mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
Serving
- Once the beef is done, shred it and mix it with the cooking liquid.
- For serving, place a slice of toasted bread on your plate, top with mashed potatoes, then add shredded beef, finishing with brown gravy.
