Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a delightful dish that takes comfort food to a whole new level. This classic recipe combines tender beef with a rich, savory sauce, all cooked slowly to perfection, and served on a fluffy piece of bread. Whether you’re at home on a chilly evening or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. The tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eager to dig in.
Imagine succulent, shredded beef paired with delicious gravy, soaking into soft bread. Each bite offers a warm embrace, making it an incredible choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. In this article, you’ll learn why Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a must-have in your recipe collection, how to prepare it perfectly, and tips for serving that will elevate your dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan:
1. Simple Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it! Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
2. Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of spices, herbs, and beef creates a wonderful flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
3. Versatile Dish: You can serve it over bread, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it adaptable to various tastes and preferences.
4. Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
5. Family-Friendly: This hearty dish satisfies even the pickiest eaters, and it’s easy to customize for everyone at the table.
6. Ideal for Entertaining: It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, taking the stress out of planning dinner.
With these enticing features, it’s no wonder people rave about Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. You’ll create lasting memories with every spoonful!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a breeze and will take around 5 to 6 hours, depending on your slow cooker. Here’s a breakdown of the total time required:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 5-6 hours on low heat or about 3-4 hours on high heat
– Serving Time: Allow time for the beef to rest after cooking
This makes it a perfect option for a busy day; you can prepare it in the morning and return home to a tantalizing dinner.

Ingredients

– 2 to 3 pounds beef chuck roast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup canned tomato sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
– 4 to 6 slices of bread for serving
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the incredible Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Beef: Trim any excess fat from the beef chuck and cut it into a few large chunks for easier cooking.
2. Sear the Beef (optional): In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks on all sides for added flavor.
3. Place in Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef to the slow cooker, followed by the sliced onion and minced garlic.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine Ingredients: Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and onions in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is coated.
6. Set to Cook: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
7. Thicken the Sauce (optional): If desired, in the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with a little water and stir into the sauce to thicken it.
8. Shred the Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
9. Return Beef to the Sauce: Place the shredded beef back into the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce.
10. Serve: Prepare the bread on plates and ladle the beef mixture on top. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
These steps ensure you’ll end up with a delectable dish that’s bursting with flavor!

How to Serve

To make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan truly memorable, consider the following tips when serving:
1. Presentation: Serve the beef over slices of warm, crusty bread or toasted rolls. Arrange plates thoughtfully for aesthetic appeal.
2. Accompaniments: Pair the dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
3. Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavors.
4. Choice of Bread: Experiment with different types of bread, such as hoagie rolls, French bread, or even mashed potatoes for a comforting touch.
5. Serving Size: Serve generous portions to ensure no one leaves the table hungry!
By thoughtfully considering how you serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, you can create a delightful dining experience that everyone will remember. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Meat: Choose a good cut of beef, such as chuck roast, for the best flavor and tenderness.
– Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your beef before cooking. It enhances flavor remarkably.
– Experiment with Gravy: You can adjust the thickness of the gravy by using more or less cornstarch, according to your preference.
– Serve with Sides: Pair your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan with a fresh side salad or vegetables for a well-balanced meal.
– Keep it Warm: If serving to a crowd, keep the slow cooker on warm to ensure your dish remains hot throughout dinner.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan to suit your tastes! Here are a few delightful variations to consider:
1. Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Mushroom Lover’s Version: Incorporate sliced mushrooms into the slow cooker for an earthy flavor.
3. BBQ Style: Swap the tomato sauce for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
4. Herb Infusion: Play around with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a fragrant addition.
5. Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with jackfruit or seitan and use vegetable broth for a meat-free version.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan for up to 3 months. Once cooled, place in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stove or in a microwave.

Special Equipment

You will need some basic tools to prepare Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan effectively:
– Slow cooker
– Skillet (for searing, if desired)
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Mixing bowl for sauce
– Tongs or forks for shredding beef
– Knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook this dish on the stovetop?
Yes, you can convert the recipe for a stovetop method. Sear the meat, then simmer with ingredients for 2-3 hours until tender.
Is it necessary to sear the beef?
Searing adds depth of flavor, but you can skip this step if you are short on time.
How can I tell when the beef is done?
The beef should be tender and easy to shred with a fork when it’s done cooking.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, you can mix cornstarch with water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but cooking times and tenderness may vary.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors and the convenience of slow cooking make it a versatile and fulfilling dish for any occasion. Whether enjoyed at home or shared with loved ones, this recipe offers warmth and satisfaction that everyone will remember and cherish.

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