This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is all about juicy beef cooked until it’s tender and served over creamy mashed potatoes. It’s perfect for busy evenings!
I love how hands-off this recipe is! Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. It feels like a warm hug on a plate. What’s not to love? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes super tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use a leaner cut like sirloin, but cook it for a shorter time to avoid drying out.
Gravy Mix: The brown gravy mix adds great flavor. If you want to make it from scratch, you can use beef broth and some cornstarch to thicken it. Alternatively, mushroom gravy mix can also work well!
Ranch Dressing Mix: This adds a delicious tangy flavor. You can make your own mix by combining dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder, which can be a healthier option.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for mashing. If you prefer something different, Yukon Gold potatoes are creamy and hold up well too. You could even use cauliflower for a lower-carb dish!
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Tender?
To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, the key is low and slow cooking. Here’s how:
- Start by searing the beef chunks in a hot skillet for a few minutes to lock in flavor before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 8 hours rather than on high, if possible. This gives the connective tissues in the beef time to break down.
Additionally, avoid lifting the lid too often as it lets heat escape, which can extend cooking time. Just trust the process and let your slow cooker work its magic!
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
- 1 packet (1 oz) brown gravy mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup water
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared separately or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks for either 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day when you want a hearty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Set Up Your Slow Cooker:
Start by placing the cubed potatoes at the bottom of your slow cooker. This layer will soak up all the delicious juices from the beef as it cooks, adding tons of flavor!
2. Layer the Beef:
Next, put the beef chunks right on top of the potatoes. Don’t worry about any specific order; just make sure they are evenly distributed.
3. Add the Flavors:
Sprinkle the brown gravy mix and ranch dressing mix evenly over the beef. This gives the dish a rich flavor that everyone will love. Then, pour 1 cup of water over everything. It’ll help create that lovely gravy as it cooks.
4. Start Slow Cooking:
Now, cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Your beef should be tender and the potatoes nicely cooked—trust the process!
5. Prepare the Mashed Potato Base:
Once cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef chunks and potatoes from the slow cooker. In the slow cooker, use a blender or immersion blender to puree the cooking liquid and remaining potatoes together until smooth. This makes for a delightful base for the beef!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Place the beef chunks over the creamy potato mixture. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
This comforting dish is perfect for any day of the week, making dinner not just easy but truly delicious!
FAQ for Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking and tenderness. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and potato layers in advance, store them in the fridge, and cook them in the slow cooker later. Just make sure to add a little extra water if the potatoes have released some moisture while stored.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove, stirring frequently to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
What Can I Serve with Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan?
This dish pairs beautifully with green beans, glazed carrots, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with bread to help soak up that delicious gravy!
