Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, look no further than Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. This recipe is a family favorite in my house, bringing everyone together around the table. The tender beef, rich gravy, and sweet vegetables create a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Plus, you can set it and forget it while you spend quality time with your loved ones.

The magic of this dish lies in the slow cooking process. As the beef simmers, it transforms into a savory delight that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have dinner ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves the hearty flavors and tender meat; it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead convenience: Just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious meal waiting for you.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of beef, onions, garlic, and carrots creates an irresistible aroma that fills your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is easy! You’ll find these simple and wholesome items at your local grocery store. Let’s get started on creating this comforting dish!

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is its flexibility! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or make use of what you have on hand.

• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or turkey for a lighter option.
• Experiment with spices: Enhance flavor by adding spices such as paprika or bay leaves to give it an extra kick.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cutting the beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes. Chopping the sweet onions and mincing the garlic follows next. Preparing these ingredients ahead of time makes assembly quick and easy!

Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional)

If you’re up for it, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to your dish by caramelizing the meat’s surface.

Step 3: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Place your seared beef in the slow cooker along with chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, diced potatoes (if using), dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and enough beef broth to cover everything. Mixing these ingredients allows them to blend their flavors beautifully during cooking.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic! Cook on low for about 8 hours or high for around 4 hours until the beef is fork-tender. The long cooking time allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste your dish and adjust seasoning if needed. If you’d like a thicker gravy, mix a little cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into your slow cooker.

And there you have it! A delightful Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan that’s ready to be enjoyed by all. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for an unforgettable meal that will warm hearts and fill bellies!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Creating a delicious Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is all about the little details that enhance the flavors and make your meal a hit. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

• Sear the beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and creates a deeper, richer gravy. This step adds a wonderful caramelized note to your dish.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme can elevate the taste of your Beef Manhattan significantly. While dried herbs work well, fresh herbs bring a vibrant flavor profile that truly shines through in slow cooking.

• Adjust liquid levels: Depending on how thick you like your gravy, feel free to modify the amount of broth. If you prefer a thicker sauce, start with slightly less broth and adjust as needed during cooking.

• Add veggies for extra nutrition: Throwing in vegetables like bell peppers or peas not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture to your dish, making it even more appealing.

• Let it rest before serving: After cooking, allow the dish to rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Serving your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan can be just as delightful as preparing it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your family or guests at mealtime.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness on top of your dish, brightening up the rich gravy.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper provides an extra kick that enhances the savory flavors without overpowering them.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: These are classic companions for beef dishes. Their smooth texture pairs perfectly with the rich gravy from your Beef Manhattan.
• Egg noodles: Soft, buttery egg noodles are another excellent choice, soaking up all that delicious sauce while complementing the tender beef.
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans add not only color but also a crisp contrast to the tender meat and soft potatoes.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their nutty flavor becomes even more pronounced when roasted. They make a delightful side that balances out the heartiness of the main dish.

With this guidance, you’re all set for an unforgettable meal that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table! Enjoy sharing this delightful experience with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover beef Manhattan in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out the beef Manhattan into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification later.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen beef Manhattan overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely; heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this recipe!

Can I make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan without searing the meat?

Yes, you can skip the searing step. While searing adds flavor, the slow cooking process will still result in tender and delicious beef.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or a side of crusty bread to soak up all that flavorful gravy.

How do 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 it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking or after you’ve finished cooking on high heat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s a fantastic way to bring family together around the dinner table. Enjoy making this hearty dish, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!