Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Cozy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe, Made Simple

There’s something deeply comforting about a Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe that simmers all day, filling your home with warm, savory aromas. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a cozy hug, perfect for weekends when you want dinner waiting for you without the rush. I love how the beef turns tender and juicy, soaking up rich flavors while the mashed potatoes get that perfect creamy texture.

If you’re new to this classic comfort dish, no worries. You’ll find it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, with lovely layers of taste and texture that come together in the slow cooker—your best kitchen helper. Plus, the hands-off approach frees you to focus on other weekend pleasures while dinner does its magic.

Let’s dive in and discover why this Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe has earned its place as a home-cooked favorite for so many families.

Ingredient Lowdown

• 2 pounds beef roast (chuck or round): Chuck adds rich marbling; round is leaner but still tender when slow-cooked.
• 1 medium onion, sliced: Adds mild sweetness and depth as it softens.
• 2 cups beef broth: The flavor base that keeps everything moist and savory.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: For subtle tang and umami boost.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds saltiness and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the fresh onion slices with deeper flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herbal note for balance.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is best for bright spice.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Season carefully—broth and sauces contribute saltiness too.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry): To thicken the luscious gravy at the end.
• 6 slices of bread (white or Texas toast style): Toasty base for layering flavors.
• 4 cups mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery crown of comfort—you can’t skip it!

Set Up for Success

Before you start, slice the onion and gather all the spices and sauces. Having everything prepped makes the slow cooker process smooth and stresses-free. No need for oven prep here—the magic happens in your slow cooker, leaving your stovetop free. Just set your slow cooker insert on a heat-safe surface, and you’re ready to layer those beautiful flavors.

Step-by-Step: Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe

1. Layer the sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. This layer will soften and infuse the beef with delicate sweetness as it cooks.
2. Place the beef roast on top of the onions. I like to pat the beef dry first, so it browns slightly if you sear it beforehand—but this step is optional.
3. Mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Pour this fragrant, dark liquid over the beef and onions.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours). You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is fork-tender—soft enough to pull apart easily.
5. Remove the beef, shred or slice it gently, and set it aside. Meanwhile, skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid.
6. Make the cornstarch slurry by whisking 2 tablespoons cold water into 2 tablespoons cornstarch until smooth. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker liquid, then turn the heat to high and let it thicken—this will become your rich, glossy gravy.
7. Toast your bread slices until golden and crisp. These act as the perfect base to soak up all those savory juices.
8. Assemble your Manhattan: Place a slice of toasted bread on each plate, layer with warm mashed potatoes, top with tender beef, and finish with a generous spoonful of gravy. The contrast of textures—you’ll love the crisp toast with creamy potatoes and juicy beef—is what makes this dish so deliciously satisfying.