Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the ease of slow cooking with the rich flavors of a classic beef and gravy dish. You’ll love how the beef becomes incredibly tender after hours of simmering, while the gravy thickens into the perfect consistency for pouring over potatoes or bread. It’s a fuss-free recipe that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch chunks
• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Directions

1. Slice the beef into chunks and mince the garlic.

2. In a skillet, sauté onions in oil until golden brown. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

3. Transfer onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add beef, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.

4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

5. Once cooked, remove beef from the slow cooker. Stir the cornstarch and water mixture into the cooking liquid until thickened.

6. Return the beef to the gravy, mix well, and serve hot over mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Total time: 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.

• Use red wine in place of some beef broth for a richer, more robust gravy.

• For a lighter version, serve over cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.

• Add carrots and celery to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if the gravy is too thick. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and onions the day before and refrigerate. Simply add everything to the slow cooker the next day.

What cut of beef works best for Beef Manhattan?

Beef chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender during long cooking, but brisket or round roast also work.

Can I use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on high pressure for about 50 minutes, then allow a natural release.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I skip searing the onions and garlic?

It’s best not to, as sautéing them first enhances their flavor and adds depth to the gravy.

What can I serve with Beef Manhattan?

Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or crusty bread are all excellent choices.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free, and use cornstarch as the thickener.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely, the recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.

How do I prevent the beef from drying out?

Cooking on low heat for the full 8 hours keeps the beef tender and juicy. Avoid opening the lid frequently during cooking.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker. Cooking time may be slightly longer.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is the ultimate comfort food for busy nights or family gatherings. With tender beef, flavorful gravy, and simple prep, this dish delivers a homestyle taste with minimal effort. Serve it over mashed potatoes or bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.