Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan represents the kind of hearty comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a dish that combines tender, flavorful beef with creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy, all nestled between crispy toasted bread. I first discovered this recipe years ago on a chilly fall evening when all I wanted was something soul-soothing after a long day. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this slow cooker delight is a wonderful way to indulge in home-cooked goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan so special? For starters, it’s a one-pot meal that easily feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. You’ll also find that it’s incredibly versatile, making it an instant hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing for a weeknight feast or a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures that everyone will enjoy.
"We made this last week and it was a game-changer! The beef came out perfectly tender, and the gravy was to die for. Will definitely make it again!" – Happy Cook
How this recipe comes together
Making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is as simple as it is rewarding. This recipe consists of a few primary steps: seasoning and searing the beef, adding ingredients to the slow cooker, and letting it simmer until perfection. In no time, the intoxicating aroma will fill your home, making it hard to resist this delicious meal!
What you’ll need
To recreate this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Mashed potatoes (prepared to your liking)
- Toasted bread (your favorite kind)
- Brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
Feel free to substitute the beef chuck roast with shoulder steak or brisket if you prefer, and let your creativity run wild with the mashed potatoes—think creamy, buttery, or even garlic-infused!
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by seasoning the beef chuck roast generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned—this helps to lock in flavor.
- Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and easy to shred.
- While the beef cooks, prepare your mashed potatoes according to your preference.
- For serving, layer toasted bread on a plate, followed by a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
- Shred the cooked beef and place it on top, then generously pour brown gravy over the entire dish.
- Serve warm, and savor the comforting flavors!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is as delightful as making it. For presentation, consider using a large, rustic platter to showcase the layered dish. Pair it with simple steamed green beans or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can elevate the dish’s aesthetic and flavor, adding a fresh touch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing leftovers from your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a breeze! Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze portions for longer storage—up to 3 months if sealed tightly. If reheating, ensure it’s warmed through to 165°F to guarantee food safety.
Helpful cooking tips
- For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the beef in Worcestershire sauce overnight before cooking.
- If you want to save time, peel and prepare your potatoes in advance so that they are ready to mash when the beef finishes cooking.
- Feel free to play around with seasoning—adding a bay leaf, thyme, or even a splash of red wine to the beef broth can create unique flavor profiles.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Use portobello mushrooms in place of beef and simmer with vegetable broth for a similar hearty experience.
- Mixed Grains: Swap out the mashed potatoes for a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice to lighten the dish while adding a nutty flavor.
Your questions answered
Q1: What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
A1: The chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling, which adds flavor and tenderness. However, you can also use brisket or shoulder steak if desired.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A2: Absolutely! Just ensure you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and serve it without bread or with a gluten-free option.
Q3: How long does the beef need to cook?
A3: Cooking on low for about 8 hours is recommended for maximum tenderness. You can cook it on high for about 4-5 hours, but low is the way to go for the best texture.
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is more than just a recipe; it’s a blissful dining experience that will leave you longing for a second helping. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the rich flavors that will comfort you time and again!
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 3-4 lb beef chuck roast Can substitute with shoulder steak or brisket.
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the beef in Worcestershire sauce overnight.
For Serving
- mashed potatoes (prepared to your liking) Consider variations like creamy, buttery, or garlic-infused.
- toasted bread (your favorite kind)
- brown gravy (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and easy to shred.
- While the beef cooks, prepare your mashed potatoes according to your preference.
Serving
- Layer toasted bread on a plate, followed by a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
- Shred the cooked beef and place it on top, then generously pour brown gravy over the entire dish.
- Serve warm, and savor the comforting flavors!
