Description

This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan recipe features tender chunks of beef chuck roast simmered with caramelized onions, garlic, and herbs in a rich beef broth gravy. Perfectly cooked low and slow, the beef soaks up the flavorful broth and is finished with a simple cornstarch thickened gravy. Serve it piping hot over creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a comforting, hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Aromatics

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch chunks
2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings

2 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
1 tsp fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried rosemary)

Thickening Agent

2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

Instructions

Prepare Beef and Garlic: Cut the beef chuck roast into 2-inch chunks to ensure even cooking. Mince the garlic cloves finely to release their flavor during cooking.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook until they become golden brown and caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Then layer in the beef chunks. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, followed by sprinkling fresh (or dried) thyme and rosemary evenly over the top.
Slow Cook the Beef: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. This slow cooking process breaks down the tough beef fibers, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
Thicken the Gravy: Once the beef is fully cooked, carefully remove the meat from the slow cooker and set aside, keeping it warm. Stir the cornstarch and cold water mixture into the liquid remaining in the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high and cook for a few minutes while stirring until the gravy thickens to a smooth consistency.
Combine and Serve: Return the tender beef chunks to the thickened gravy in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat the meat well. Serve the beef hot over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Notes

For more intense flavor, brown the beef chunks in the skillet before sautéing the onions.
Use fresh herbs if possible for the best aroma and taste.
The gravy can be adjusted in thickness by changing the amount of cornstarch slurry used.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
Serve with mashed potatoes or buttered bread for a classic presentation.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker low) or 4 hours (slow cooker high)
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, beef chuck roast, slow cooker recipe, beef stew, comfort food, beef gravy, easy slow cooker meal