Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
There’s something heartwarming about a slow-cooked meal that fills your home with rich, savory aromas. Imagine stepping through your door after a long day to the enticing smell of beef chuck roast, garlic, and spices mingling together. That’s what you get with this Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or a family gathering, it’s a dish that captures comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe isn’t just another beef dish; it offers a unique blend of flavors and ease. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a meal that showcases tender beef simmered in a flavorful broth. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also versatile enough to serve on busy weeknights or special occasions.
"I made this for my family last Sunday, and they couldn’t stop raving about the flavors! The beef was so tender, and it felt like a restaurant-quality meal right at home!"
Preparing Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Making this delicious dish is incredibly straightforward, requiring only a few steps to achieve perfection. Prepare to sear the beef for that delectable crust, then let the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting.
Gather these items:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices of bread
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- In your slow cooker, place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom to lay a flavorful foundation.
- Gently add the seared beef on top of the onions and garlic.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, red wine (if you’re using it), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. This will create the savory sauce; pour it over the beef.
- Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef becomes fork-tender.
- Once cooked, remove the beef and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced beef on fresh bread, ladling the delicious sauce over the top and finishing with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, you have some tasty options. Enjoy the beef and sauce nestled between two slices of crusty bread for the perfect open-faced sandwich. Pair it with a fresh arugula salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables to add some color and nutrition.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is a breeze. Place any uneaten beef Manhattan in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in individual portions for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
To make your slow cooker beef Manhattan even better, consider these handy tips:
- For a deeper flavor, try marinating the beef in the Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and salt for a few hours before cooking.
- Browning the beef first helps to seal in the juices and adds an incredible depth of flavor.
- If you’re short on time, skip the searing (but know that you might miss out on that beautiful crust).
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try with your Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan:
- Swap beef broth for vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- Add in some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Consider topping it with sliced avocado for a creamy texture and added fat.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Preparation time is around 15 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy days. Most of the time comes from the slow cooking, allowing you to relax while it simmers.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking, you can substitute it with brisket or round roast. Just be aware that the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes, freezing is safe! Just ensure you allow the meal to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Always label them with the date to track freshness.
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until beautifully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- In your slow cooker, place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom.
- Gently add the seared beef on top of the onions and garlic.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, and pour over the beef.
- Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
- Once cooked, remove the beef, allow it to rest for a few minutes, and slice.
- Serve sliced beef on fresh bread, ladling sauce over the top and garnishing with parsley.
