If you’re in the mood for a comforting classic that practically cooks itself, you cannot go wrong with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. This undeniably cozy dish is a hearty open-faced sandwich stacked with savory shredded beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and luscious gravy, all layered atop thick slices of sandwich bread. Every forkful delivers nostalgic flavor and soul-hugging warmth, making it a must for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or just anytime you’re craving something wonderfully rich and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is how simple, familiar ingredients transform into something extraordinary. Each component plays a crucial role, contributing succulence, flavor, or that irresistible, saucy finish that makes this meal unforgettable.
- Beef chuck roast (2 pounds): This affordable cut transforms into mouthwateringly tender shreds after hours in the slow cooker—it’s truly the star of the show.
- Onion soup mix (1 packet, 1 oz): Brings a punch of savory, oniony depth with very little effort.
- Beef broth (2 cups): Helps keep the beef moist and creates the base for a rich, flavorful gravy.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds tang and umami, making the finished gravy wonderfully complex.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the beef’s savoriness and rounds out the flavors.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Layers even more aromatic flavor into the dish for ultimate depth.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Lets you fine-tune the seasoning so your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is perfectly balanced.
- Thick sandwich bread (8 slices): The sturdy foundation for this open-faced delight—choose your absolute favorite variety!
- Prepared mashed potatoes (4 cups): Creamy, fluffy potatoes make this dish so comforting; homemade or store-bought, both work beautifully.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Thickens the cooking liquid into luscious, spoon-coating gravy.
- Water (2 tablespoons): Mixes with the cornstarch to create a smooth slurry, ensuring a silky gravy texture.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Step 1: Season and Prep the Beef
Start by giving your beef chuck roast a generous sprinkle of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple step builds a flavorful foundation and ensures every bite of your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is savory from the inside out.
Step 2: Layer Into the Slow Cooker
Set the seasoned beef right into your slow cooker. Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the roast, then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. The liquids will slowly soak into the meat, amping up the flavor as everything cooks low and slow.
Step 3: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic
Pop on the lid and set your slow cooker to low. Let everything simmer away for 8 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and practically falls apart when you poke it with a fork. This is where the magic really happens—your home will smell amazing!
Step 4: Shred the Beef
Once the cook time is up, carefully transfer the beef to a large platter or cutting board. Use two forks to pull the beef apart into rich, juicy shreds. Don’t rush this step—it’s oddly satisfying.
Step 5: Make the Gravy
Whisk together the cornstarch and water until totally smooth, then pour that slurry into the liquid left in the slow cooker. Stir well, cover, and let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens into a dreamy, glossy gravy.
Step 6: Combine the Beef and Gravy
Return the shredded beef right back to the slow cooker, stirring well so every luscious strand is drenched in gravy. This step infuses the beef with even more flavor and keeps it incredibly moist.
Step 7: Assemble Your Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
To serve, lay a thick slice of sandwich bread on each plate. Scoop a mound of mashed potatoes over the bread, then pile on that glorious shredded beef and spoonfuls of rich, savory gravy. Add a touch more pepper if you like, and enjoy the ultimate comfort meal!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley does wonders. You can also finish each serving with a dash of cracked black pepper or a light drizzle of extra gravy for maximum indulgence.
Side Dishes
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan pairs beautifully with simple sides. Think crisp green beans, roasted carrots, or even a fresh, tangy coleslaw to balance the rich flavors on your plate. Anything bright and crunchy is a perfect counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the traditional open-faced stack, or—for extra decadence—double up the bread for a knife-and-fork sandwich. You can even serve the beef and gravy over biscuits or baked potatoes for a fun twist that will wow your dinner crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is the gift that keeps giving! Simply let any unused beef and gravy cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the bread and mashed potatoes separate until you’re ready to reheat and serve.
Freezing
This dish freezes like a dream. Portion out the beef and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Label, date, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the beef and gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if the gravy seems too thick. You can also microwave in 1–2 minute bursts, stirring in between. Heat up your bread and mashed potatoes separately for a fresh-from-the-slow-cooker experience!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, you can substitute brisket or round roast. Just know that leaner cuts may not be quite as tender, so adjust your cook time as needed.
Is it possible to make Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free sandwich bread and be sure your onion soup mix does not contain any gluten. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives that work beautifully for this recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
Definitely! You can season and assemble everything in the slow cooker insert the night before. Just store it in the fridge overnight, then start the slow cooker in the morning for a truly effortless dinner.
What’s the best way to make mashed potatoes for this?
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the dream here. Use starchy potatoes like Yukon Golds or Russets, and add plenty of butter and a splash of milk or cream for ultimate smoothness. Store-bought or leftover mashed potatoes are perfectly fine too!
Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?
Yes! Brown the beef first for extra flavor, then follow the same ingredient steps. Cook on high pressure for about an hour with natural release, then finish with the same gravy and assembly steps.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something undeniably special about scooping into a plate of Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan—it’s comfort food at its absolute best. I can’t wait for you to try this homey, savory, and utterly satisfying recipe. If you’re looking for a dinner that feels like a warm hug, this classic stack is sure to become a regular in your kitchen!
Print
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, where tender shredded beef is smothered in a savory gravy and served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, all piled on thick slices of bread. This hearty dish is a classic American favorite that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Beef Manhattan:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 packet onion soup mix (1 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Serving:
- 8 slices thick sandwich bread
- 4 cups prepared mashed potatoes
Gravy Thickening:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Season and Cook Beef: Season the beef chuck roast, place in the slow cooker, add onion soup mix, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook on low for 8 hours.
- Shred Beef: Remove cooked beef, shred it, and set aside.
- Thicken Gravy: Mix cornstarch with water, add to the slow cooker liquid, and stir until thickened. Return shredded beef to the gravy.
- Serve: Place a slice of bread, top with mashed potatoes, and spoon shredded beef and gravy over. Repeat for each serving.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade mashed potatoes.
- This dish is also delicious served open-faced with a second slice of bread underneath.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 open-faced sandwich
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
