Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

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by Amelia

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Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This savory recipe features tender beef simmered in a rich gravy, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With minimal effort, you can create a meal that everyone will love. Let your slow cooker work its magic while you spend quality time with friends and family.

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Preparation: Simply chop ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
  • Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet onions, garlic, and seasonings creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
  • Versatile Meal: Serve it over mashed potatoes or egg noodles, or enjoy it with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe fits right in.
  • Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will be drawn to the hearty flavors and comforting textures.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan requires some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Skillet (optional)
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Slow cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking while developing rich flavors.
  • Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables and meat.
  • Cutting board: A stable cutting surface is crucial for efficient food preparation.
  • Skillet (optional): Searing the meat beforehand enhances its flavor and texture.
Slow

Ingredients

For the Beef 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

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

  1. Cut the beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes.
  2. Chop the onions and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Optional Searing

  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the beef until browned on all sides for added flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

  1. Place seared beef in the slow cooker.
  2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes (if using), thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and enough beef broth to cover everything.

Step 4: Cook

  • Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

  1. Adjust seasoning before serving.
  2. If desired, thicken gravy using cornstarch slurry before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. By enhancing the presentation and pairing it with complementary sides, you can create a memorable meal experience for your family and friends.

Over Creamy Mashed Potatoes

  • Serve the beef and gravy over a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food experience.

With Egg Noodles

  • Nestle the tender beef on top of egg noodles, allowing the sauce to soak into the pasta for added flavor.

In a Bread Bowl

  • For a fun twist, serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The bread will absorb the delicious gravy.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

  • Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme to add a pop of color and fresh flavor to your dish.

With Crusty Bread

  • Pair with crusty bread on the side to help soak up the savory gravy, making each bite delightful.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

To achieve the best flavors and textures in your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, consider these helpful tips.

  • Choose Quality Meat: Opt for good-quality beef chuck roast. This cut becomes tender when slow-cooked, ensuring juicy pieces in every bite.
  • Sear for Flavor: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor. It creates a delicious crust that adds depth to your dish.
  • Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like bell peppers or peas. They not only boost nutrition but also add vibrant colors.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning near the end of cooking. A little salt or pepper can make all the difference in enhancing flavors.
  • Thicken Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, use a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Mix cornstarch with water and stir it in until desired thickness is reached.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Pairing your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan with tasty sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

  1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious contrast and bright color to your plate.
  2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a crunchy texture that complements the tender beef.
  3. Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers freshness that balances the rich flavors.
  4. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for an indulgent side that’s perfect for mopping up extra gravy.
  5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and zest, making it an enjoyable contrast to this hearty dish.
  6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs flavors beautifully and serves as an excellent base for serving beef and gravy.
  7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes offer an interesting flavor profile alongside savory beef.
  8. Cauliflower Mash: For a lighter option, cauliflower mash provides creaminess similar to mashed potatoes without all the carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a delicious dish, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

  • Skipping the Sear: Not searing the beef before slow cooking can lead to less flavor. Always brown the beef on all sides for depth in your dish.
  • Ignoring the Broth: Using insufficient broth can result in a dry meal. Ensure there’s enough liquid to cover the beef and vegetables.
  • Overloading with Vegetables: Adding too many veggies can dilute the flavor of the beef. Stick to recommended amounts or choose one or two favorites.
  • Not Adjusting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end can leave your dish bland. Always taste before serving and add salt or pepper as needed.
  • Cooking on High Too Long: Cooking on high heat for too long can make the beef tough. Follow recommended cooking times for tender results.
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
  • Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
  • Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan.

What types of beef work best for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which breaks down during slow cooking, creating tender meat. Other cuts like brisket may also work well.

Can I add other vegetables to Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, peas, or your favorite seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when my Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is done?

It’s ready when the beef is fork-tender and easily falls apart. This usually takes about 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.

Can I thicken the gravy in my Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?

Yes! You can use a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with water and adding it towards the end of cooking for a thicker gravy.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is not just a comforting meal; it’s versatile and adaptable. Experiment with different vegetables and spices to make it your own. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will surely please everyone at the table.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Description

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a delightful dish that delivers a hearty meal with minimal effort. This recipe features tender beef chuck simmered in a savory broth enriched with sweet onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with family and friends. As it cooks, your slow cooker transforms these simple ingredients into a rich comfort food experience that everyone will love. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even in a bread bowl for a fun twist. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul.


Ingredients

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  • 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
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 3 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 lb Yukon gold potatoes (optional), diced

Instructions

  1. Cut the beef chuck roast into 2-inch cubes and chop the onions and garlic.
  2. Optional: Sear the beef in a skillet until browned on all sides to enhance flavor.
  3. In the slow cooker, combine the seared beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, diced potatoes (if using), thyme, and enough beef broth to cover all ingredients.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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