If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place with this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan! This recipe is a family favorite in my home, and it’s easy to see why. The tender beef chuck roast simmers all day in a savory gravy that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish brings everyone together around the dinner table.

What makes this recipe truly special is how effortless it is. Just toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. You can spend more time with your loved ones instead of slaving away in the kitchen. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles, and you’ll have an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: Just chop, mix, and let your slow cooker do the hard work!
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the rich flavors—kids and adults alike will be asking for their favorites.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep everything ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet onions, garlic, and herbs creates an irresistible taste.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes cooking so enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan:

For the Beef and Gravy

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
2 medium sweet onions, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
3 medium carrots, sliced
1 lb Yukon gold potatoes (optional), diced

With these ingredients on hand, you’re just moments away from creating something special!

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
Experiment with spices: Adding paprika or bay leaves can elevate the flavor profile even further.
Make it spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a delightful kick if you like heat!

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes. This size allows for even cooking and tender bites later on. Chop the onions and mince the garlic. These aromatic ingredients are essential as they will infuse deep flavors into your dish.

Step 2: Sear the Meat (Optional)

If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step caramelizes the meat’s surface, enhancing its rich taste.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place the seared beef in your slow cooker along with onions, garlic, carrots, and optional potatoes. Pour in enough beef broth to cover everything, then add Worcestershire sauce and thyme. This mixture will create a delicious gravy as it cooks slowly.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender. Cooking low allows all those flavors to meld perfectly together while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 5: Final Touches

Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix some cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it in until desired thickness is reached.

And there you have it! Your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is ready to be enjoyed. Gather around with your loved ones and savor every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is all about the little details, and these pro tips will help you achieve a delicious result every time.

Sear the beef first: Searing the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the depth of flavor and adds a beautiful color to your dish. The caramelization process creates a richer, more complex taste that makes every bite delightful.
Use quality broth: Opting for low-sodium beef broth ensures that you can control the salt level in your dish while still infusing it with robust flavor. A good-quality broth provides a solid base that elevates your gravy.
Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas to incorporate extra nutrition and flavor. This not only adds variety but also makes the dish more colorful and appealing.
Adjust seasoning at the end: Always taste and adjust seasoning just before serving. As flavors meld during cooking, you might find that it needs a pinch more salt or pepper, which can make all the difference in achieving perfection.
Thicken the gravy wisely: If you prefer a thicker gravy, use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to achieve your desired consistency. This method keeps your gravy smooth without altering its flavor.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

When it comes time to serve your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, you’ll want to present it in a way that highlights its comforting nature while making it visually appealing.

Garnishes

Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish, enhancing its overall presentation.
Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of green onions provides a mild onion flavor and a vibrant green touch that complements the hearty beef nicely.

Side Dishes

Creamy mashed potatoes: A classic pairing, creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth base for soaking up all that delicious gravy while adding richness to each bite.
Steamed green beans: Bright and slightly crisp, steamed green beans offer a lovely contrast in texture and color, making them an excellent side option.
Buttery corn on the cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings out natural sweetness and adds another layer of comfort to your meal.
Garlic bread: Crisp garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover gravy on your plate, providing an irresistible crunch alongside this savory dish.

Enjoy this inviting meal with loved ones around the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is perfect for meal prep; it holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. Here’s how to best store your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the beef Manhattan to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

To freeze, portion out the beef Manhattan into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Leave some space at the top of the containers, as liquids can expand when frozen.
Label each container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
Reheat on low in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short increments, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan!

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

Yes! While chuck roast is ideal due to its tenderness when cooked slowly, you could also try brisket or round cuts. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

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

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

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

This dish is delicious served over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share comforting moments with family and friends. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or spices. Happy cooking!