Description
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender beef roast slow-cooked to perfection in a savory broth, topped with rich homemade gravy and served over slices of toasted bread and creamy mashed potatoes. This classic American comfort food combines robust flavors and simple ingredients, making it an ideal meal for chilly days or family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 pounds beef roast (chuck or round) – Substitute: Brisket for a slightly different flavor
For the Broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced – Can use shallots for a milder taste
- 2 cups beef broth – Substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Substitute with soy sauce for a similar effect
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Use low-sodium if preferred
For the Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Substitute with fresh minced garlic (1-2 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Substitute with Italian seasoning for a different profile
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adjust according to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth
For Thickening the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry)
For Serving
- 6 slices bread (white or Texas toast) – Substitute with whole-grain bread for added fiber
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or prepared) – Leave some skins on for added texture and nutrients
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the beef roast at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add sliced onion, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce around and over the meat to ensure the beef is well coated in the broth mixture.
- Add Seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt evenly over the beef and broth mixture. Stir gently to combine the seasonings without disturbing the beef too much.
- Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat. Cook for 8 to 10 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds with a fork. Alternatively, cook on high for 4 to 5 hours if time is limited.
- Remove and Shred Beef: Carefully take the beef roast out of the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Shred the beef into bite-sized pieces using two forks and set aside, keeping it warm.
- Make the Gravy: Pour the liquid from the slow cooker into a saucepan. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the cold water to make a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the warm broth over medium heat, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens to a smooth and glossy consistency.
- Toast the Bread: While the gravy thickens, toast the bread slices until golden brown and crisp. Texas toast or white bread works best for soaking up the gravy.
- Assemble the Beef Manhattan: Place toasted bread slices on individual plates. Top each slice generously with shredded beef. Ladle creamy mashed potatoes on the side or on top of the beef, depending on preference. Pour the thickened gravy over the beef and mashed potatoes for maximum flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot, optionally with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, sear the beef roast in a hot pan before slow cooking to brown the outside.
- You can add carrots and celery to the slow cooker for added vegetables and heartiness.
- Make sure to use cold water when mixing with cornstarch to avoid lumps in the gravy.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Use low-sodium broth and soy sauce if you want to control the salt content of the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Slow Cooking
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
