Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Hearty Comfort Meal

If you’re looking for a warm, hearty meal to comfort your soul, you’ve come to the right place. My Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is the recipe you need. With tender beef, fresh veggies, and rich flavors, it’s a sure crowd-pleaser. Plus, cooking it in a slow cooker makes it easy and fuss-free. Dive in to discover just how simple it is to create this delicious dish at home!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 2 lbs beef chuck roast

- 1 large onion

- 4 cloves garlic

- 2 carrots

- 2 stalks celery

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients

- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)

- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

- Salt and pepper

Additional Ingredients for Serving

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- Crusty bread or toasted baguette

- Fresh parsley for garnish

To make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, you need to gather key ingredients. The main part is beef chuck roast, which gives the dish a tender texture. I recommend using a large onion and four cloves of garlic for a strong flavor.

Next, you’ll need two carrots and two stalks of celery. These veggies add color and nutrition. For the liquid, use four cups of low-sodium beef broth to keep the dish hearty.

For flavor, add Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried thyme, and rosemary. Don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning.

Lastly, you’ll need olive oil for browning the beef and crusty bread or toasted baguette for serving. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch for garnish.

Each ingredient plays a role in creating a rich, comforting meal. Enjoy the process of gathering these items to create something delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of Beef

To start, we need to sear the beef. First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season 2 lbs of beef chuck roast with salt and pepper.

Once the oil is hot, add the beef chunks in batches. Sear each piece for about 4-5 minutes. You want them browned on all sides. After searing, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate. This step adds flavor that makes your dish special.

Cooking the Vegetables

Now, let’s cook the veggies. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3 minutes until the onion is soft and clear. This mix brings out a great aroma.

Next, it’s time to combine everything in the slow cooker. Place the seared beef back into the slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth. Then, add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.

Slow Cooking Process

Now that everything is ready, cover the slow cooker. You can cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Either way, the beef will become very tender and easy to shred.

After the cooking time, take two forks and shred the beef right in the slow cooker. Mix it back into the broth and veggies. This step helps all the flavors blend together, making each bite delicious.

Tips & Tricks

Enhancing Flavor

To boost flavor, try adding more herbs. I suggest using more thyme and rosemary. You can also add a splash of red wine for depth.

For tenderness, searing the beef is key. Sear each chunk well to lock in juices. Slow cooking helps too. Aim for low heat to let the beef break down.

Presentation Tips

Serve this dish in shallow bowls. Ladle plenty of the rich gravy over the beef. It makes a great base for the bread.

Garnish your meal with fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and a fresh taste. A little sprinkle goes a long way.

Cooking Method Tips

Searing the meat is very important. It gives the beef a great crust and flavor.

Cooking time can change based on your slow cooker. If it runs hot, check the beef earlier. Always ensure it's tender and easy to shred.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch up the beef cut in this recipe. While beef chuck roast is ideal, you can try brisket or round. These cuts may change the flavor a bit but will still taste great.

For vegetables, feel free to mix in what you like. Peas, bell peppers, or green beans work well. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.

Cooking Style Variations

You can make this dish in an Instant Pot if you're short on time. Just follow the same steps, but cook on high pressure for about 45 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for best results.

If you prefer stovetop cooking, brown the beef in a pot. Then, add all ingredients and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.

Serving Suggestions

This beef dish pairs well with many sides. Try it with a fresh salad or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with green beans for a pop of color.

For bread, crusty sourdough or even a soft roll works nicely. Toasted baguette is a great option too. It soaks up the rich gravy and makes every bite delicious.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spoilage. The shelf life of the Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan in the fridge is about 3 to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

For proper freezing, let the dish cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The beef can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating Suggestions

Reheat Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan on the stove or in the microwave. On the stove, use low heat and stir often to keep it moist. In the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps maintain the great flavor and texture of the meal.

FAQs

What is a Beef Manhattan?

A Beef Manhattan is a hearty dish made with tender beef and rich gravy. It usually features beef chuck roast cooked slowly with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. Traditionally, the beef is served over thick slices of crusty bread or toasted baguette. This meal is perfect for chilly days. The flavors meld together, creating a warm and comforting experience.

Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen beef for this recipe. Just remember to adjust your cooking time. If you use frozen beef, cook it on high for about 5 to 6 hours instead of 4. Make sure to sear the beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds flavor and helps keep the meat tender. If you forget to thaw the beef, don't worry! The slow cooker will still work its magic.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To spice up your Beef Manhattan, you have a few options. You can add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. If you like heat, mix in some hot sauce while cooking. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika. These additions will give your dish a kick without overpowering the rich beef flavor. Adjust the spice level to match your taste!

This blog post covered everything you need for a hearty Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. We talked about key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips to enhance flavor. Remember to properly store leftovers and explore variations to keep it fresh. Enjoy serving this dish with crusty bread and a sprinkle of parsley. With these steps, you’ll create a meal that warms both heart and home. Happy cooking!