Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I adore this Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day. Imagine coming home to the rich aroma of tender beef simmering in savory gravy, just waiting to be served over creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also impresses your loved ones, making it a perfect solution for those hectic weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food
This Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it cooks. The rich, savory flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels like a warm embrace. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table!
Ingredients for Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful as it simmers.
- Onion: Chopped onions add a sweet and savory base to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant aroma and depth to the gravy.
- Beef broth: A rich broth is essential for a hearty sauce, infusing the beef with moisture and flavor.
- Carrots: Sliced carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the mix.
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes provide a comforting texture and soak up the delicious gravy.
- Frozen peas: These are added at the end for a pop of color and freshness.
- Soy sauce: This adds umami and a hint of saltiness, enhancing the overall taste.
- Worcestershire sauce: A splash of this sauce brings complexity and richness to the gravy.
- Dried thyme: This herb adds an earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor. If you’re looking for a thicker gravy, consider mixing cornstarch with water and stirring it in during the last hour of cooking. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find them available for printing.
How to Make Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food
Step 1: Season the Beef
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious. Don’t be shy! A good seasoning creates a savory crust that locks in moisture as it cooks, making your beef even more tender.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Next, place the seasoned beef in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and pour in the beef broth. Toss in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes, followed by the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Stir everything gently to combine, allowing the flavors to mingle beautifully.
Step 3: Cook on Low
Now, cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 8 hours. This slow cooking method is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors develop, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.
Step 4: Add Peas
About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker. This little addition brings a burst of color and freshness to your dish. It’s a simple way to elevate the meal, making it not just hearty but also visually appealing.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once the cooking time is up, remove the beef and shred it using two forks. Mix the shredded beef back into the rich gravy. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread for a truly comforting meal.
Tips for Success
- Always season your beef well; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
- For a richer gravy, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it helps the flavors settle.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your beef reaches the perfect tenderness.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, so make extra!
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker: A must-have for this recipe; if you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works too.
- Cutting board: Essential for chopping your veggies and beef.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes prep work quick and easy.
- Measuring cups: Handy for accurate ingredient portions.
- Serving spoon: Perfect for dishing out that delicious beef and gravy!
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with hearty mushrooms or jackfruit for a plant-based twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fragrant touch.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
- Asian Flair: Incorporate bok choy and a splash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired dish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food experience.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
- A side of steamed green beans adds a fresh crunch.
- For drinks, a light red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color!
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Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This way, you can still enjoy the rich flavors without the gluten.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble all the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just pop it in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious dinner waiting for you!
What can I serve with Classic Beef Manhattan?
This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, but you can also serve it with rice or crusty bread. A side of steamed vegetables adds a nice touch, too!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Summarizing the Joy of Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food
There’s something truly magical about the Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a gathering point for family and friends. The aroma wafting through your home creates an inviting atmosphere, making everyone feel at ease. Each bite is a reminder of love and warmth, perfect for those chilly evenings. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. This dish not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, creating memories that linger long after the last bite.
Print
Classic Beef Manhattan – Slow Cooker Comfort Food Unveiled!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and comforting slow cooker dish featuring tender beef, rich gravy, and served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper.
- In a slow cooker, combine the beef, onion, garlic, beef broth, carrots, potatoes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas.
- Once done, shred the beef and mix it back into the gravy.
- Serve over mashed potatoes or with crusty bread.
Notes
- For a thicker gravy, mix 2 tbsp of cornstarch with water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans.
- This dish can be made a day ahead and reheated for best flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg