Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and delights your taste buds. This incredible dish combines tender beef, rich gravy, and savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. If you want a meal that virtually cooks itself while you focus on other things, this recipe is a fantastic option to consider. The wonderful aromas filling your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating mealtime.
For those who enjoy the ease and convenience of slow cooking, there’s no better choice than Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. Imagine returning home after a long day to find a delicious meal waiting for you, bubbling in the slow cooker. The beef will be fork-tender, and each bite will be bursting with flavor. This dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters in your household. In this article, you will discover why this recipe is so beloved, learn about the ingredients needed, and follow along with step-by-step instructions for creating this amazing dish.
With its unique combination of flavors, Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday, it’ll surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s what makes this recipe special:
1. Set It and Forget It: With a slow cooker, you can prepare your ingredients in the morning and let the magic happen while you attend to your day.

2. Minimal Prep Time: The preparation is straightforward, allowing you to throw everything in the slow cooker and go.
3. Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of seasonings and the slow cooking process infuses the beef with incredible flavors that are simply mouthwatering.
4. Easily Customizable: Want to add extra vegetables or switch up the spices? This recipe welcomes personalization!
5. Economical Meal: Using less expensive cuts of beef allows for a budget-friendly dinner without sacrificing flavor or quality.
6. Family-Friendly Dish: This recipe appeals to many tastes, making it an excellent choice for families with different preferences.
7. Perfect Leftovers: The flavors meld together even more after a day in the fridge, making leftovers something to look forward to.
With all these factors combined, it’s no wonder why Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is beloved across the country. Each bite is packed with flavor and warmth that you can only find in a well-cooked home meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is straightforward and time-efficient. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and seasoning the beef.
– Cooking Time: 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high, depending on your schedule.
– Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes if using a slow cooker on low, or 4 hours 15 minutes on high.
These times are approximate and can vary based on your slow cooker model and the specific cut of beef you choose, but this guideline should help you plan your meal effectively.

Ingredients

– 2 pounds beef chuck roast
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 medium carrots, sliced
– 3 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is simple when you follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the onion, slice the carrots, and dice the potatoes. Set aside.
2. Season the Beef: Rub the beef chuck roast with salt, black pepper, and thyme for added flavor.
3. Sear the Beef (Optional): In a hot skillet, sear the beef roast on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side if you want to enhance the flavor. This step is optional but adds a nice depth to the dish.
4. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the seared (or unseared) beef in the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
5. Mix the Liquid Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well.
6. Pour Over the Beef: Pour the liquid mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Ensure everything is well-coated.
7. Cook: Set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, depending on your schedule.
8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you desire a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir this mixture into the slow cooker and let it cook uncovered.
9. Check for Doneness: The beef should be fork-tender and the vegetables soft. If they aren’t quite there, continue cooking for a bit longer.
10. Serve: Once done, remove the beef and slice or shred it, serving it back with the vegetables and gravy.

How to Serve

Serving Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan can be as casual or elegant as you want. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:
1. Plate it Neatly: Make sure to arrange the beef slices and vegetables decoratively on each plate, drizzling gravy generously over the top.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Complementing Sides: Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the delicious gravy. A side salad can also balance the rich flavors.
4. Add a Beverage: Pair your meal with red wine or a hearty beer that complements the robust flavors of the beef.
5. Presentation Style: Use a large platter for family-style serving, allowing guests to help themselves. This creates a communal atmosphere that encourages sharing and interaction.
By following these serving tips, you’ll create a memorable dining experience for your family and friends, making your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan the centerpiece of a delightful meal. Enjoy!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Meat: For the best results, choose well-marbled beef chuck roast. This cut becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
– Sear for Flavor: Searing the beef before placing it in the slow cooker enhances the flavor profile. It adds depth and richness that elevates the dish.
– Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add different spices like cumin or paprika for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.

Recipe Variation

There are plenty of ways to customize Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. Consider trying these variations:
1. Add More Veggies: Incorporate frozen peas or green beans in the last hour of cooking to add color and nutrition.
2. Different Meat: Try using pork shoulder instead of beef for a slightly different flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Once cooked, the leftover Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: To freeze the dish, place the cooled beef and gravy in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

To prepare Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, you will need:
– Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
– Cutting board and chef’s knife for prep
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Mixing bowls for combining sauces
– Skillet (for searing, if desired)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, other cuts like brisket or round roast can also be used, but they may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
How can I thicken the gravy without cornstarch?
You can create a roux by cooking flour with butter and then whisking in the cooking liquid. It will also create a thicker gravy.
Is Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan kid-friendly?
Absolutely! This dish is mild in flavor and generally appeals to children. It can be served over mashed potatoes or noodles for a kid-friendly option.
How do I know if the beef is cooked properly?
The beef should be fork-tender and easily shredded when done. If it’s still tough, it may need more time in the slow cooker.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the additional ingredients.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is an inviting and heartwarming dish that brings families together around the dinner table. Its ease of preparation and comforting flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal rotation. Whether enjoyed during the week or for special occasions, it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. So set your slow cooker, embrace the delightful aroma, and look forward to a warm, delicious meal waiting for you!

Print