If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner that practically makes itself, the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender chunks of beef chuck slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, savory tomato and beef broth sauce infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables. This dish delivers soul-warming flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals where you want maximum comfort with minimal fuss. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its incredible taste but also in the simple ingredients coming together to create a melt-in-your-mouth experience you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward, everyday ingredients is the first step toward a wonderfully flavorful Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from tenderizing the beef broth to adding earthy sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks: This cut becomes beautifully tender after slow cooking and soaks up all the flavors.
- 2 medium onions, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle bite that balances the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic’s warmth and pungency infuse the broth with irresistible aroma.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth: The flavor foundation that keeps everything moist and savory without overwhelming saltiness.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Gives the sauce a rich, tangy depth and beautiful color.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami note that enhances the beefiness.
- 2 medium carrots, chopped: Carrots contribute a hint of sweetness and texture.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped: Celery brings a subtle earthiness that rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Thyme’s herbal aroma complements the beef perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Beef
Start by trimming any excess fat from your beef chuck roast and cutting it into large chunks. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides to build flavor from the get-go. If you have time, searing the beef in a hot skillet with a bit of oil until browned will add an irresistible caramelized crust, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Step 2: Layer the Aromatics and Vegetables
Place the chopped onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery in the bottom of your slow cooker. These veggies will release their flavors slowly as the beef simmers, creating a savory base that’s rich and fragrant.
Step 3: Mix and Add the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the layered vegetables to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Now, nestle the seared beef chunks on top of your sauce and vegetable mix. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. The beef will become melt-in-your-mouth tender as it absorbs all the wonderful seasonings and juices.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving Prep
Before you serve, taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This final step ensures a perfectly balanced Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe ready to be enjoyed with your favorite sides.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich beef. For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream can add creaminess that complements the tangy tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of the savory sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, creamy buttered egg noodles or even roasted root vegetables provide lovely alternatives, each bringing their own texture and flavor to complete the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef and sauce over toasted slices of crusty bread or inside warm, soft rolls to make rustic sandwich-style dinners. Another idea is to transform the dish into a hearty shepherd’s pie by layering the beef and vegetables under fluffy mashed potatoes and baking until golden on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delicious, if not better.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your containers with the date for easy meal planning later.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw refrigerated or frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. Avoid high heat to keep the beef tender and moist.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use beef brisket or short ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the cut.
Is it necessary to sear the beef before slow cooking?
Searing is optional but highly recommended. It locks in juices and creates a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor of the dish.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adjust the recipe for an Instant Pot by using the sauté function to brown the beef and then pressure cooking on high for about 60-75 minutes. Just make sure to allow natural pressure release for best results.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a mix of soy sauce and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar can mimic the tangy, umami flavor, though it will be slightly different.
Can this dish be served gluten-free?
Definitely. Just ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free brands. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free and this recipe is perfect for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth, hearty flavor, and a sense of home to your table. Its simplicity and rich taste make it a go-to dish that’s easy to prepare yet feels like a special occasion every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like I have!
Print
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender chunks of beef chuck roast slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for an easy, hands-off meal, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or noodles for a classic family dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasonings
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Vegetables
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Trim any excess fat from the beef chuck roast and season the chunks generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Beef (Optional): For extra depth of flavor, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the beef chunks on all sides until a crust forms. This step adds richness but can be skipped for convenience.
- Layer Vegetables: Place the chopped onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery at the bottom of your slow cooker to create a flavorful base for the dish.
- Mix Sauce and Pour: In a bowl, whisk together the low-sodium beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Add Beef to Slow Cooker: Arrange the seared (or raw) beef chunks on top of the vegetable and broth mixture, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Slow Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours or on high heat for 4 hours until the beef is fork-tender and juicy.
- Final Seasoning and Serving: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve the tender beef and vegetable mixture over creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite type of noodles for a comforting, complete meal.
Notes
- Searing the beef is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor and color.
- To make this dish quicker, use the high setting on your slow cooker and cook for 4 hours instead of 8 hours on low.
- This recipe pairs well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even rice.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt content in the dish.
