This Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a warm, comforting dish. It features tender beef, juicy tomatoes, and rich gravy, all served over soft bread. A meal that’s a hug in a bowl!
You can just toss everything into the slow cooker and go about your day. Who doesn’t love a dinner that practically makes itself? I often serve it with a side salad for extra crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs, though the cooking time may change.
Onion and Garlic: These add depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use 1 teaspoon of onion powder and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes give a great base. If you prefer fresh, use about 4 medium tomatoes chopped, but be sure to add a bit of extra liquid.
Condensed Tomato Soup: This thickens the mixture and adds richness. You can replace it with more diced tomatoes or homemade tomato sauce for a healthier choice.
Beef Broth: Using low-sodium beef broth allows you to control the saltiness. If unavailable, you could use vegetable broth for a different flavor.
White Sandwich Bread: Any bread will work, but I enjoy using a hearty whole grain bread for texture. Gluten-free bread is also a good substitute!
How Do I Get the Beef Extra Tender?
Cooking beef until it’s tender is key to a delicious meal! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by searing the beef cubes in a skillet on medium-high heat for a few minutes on each side if you want more flavor, but it’s not required.
- When adding to the slow cooker, ensure the broth covers the meat for even cooking.
- Cook on low rather than high when possible. This allows the beef to break down more slowly and become much more tender.
- If you’re unsure, give it a little longer in the slow cooker; the longer, the better!
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices white sandwich bread
- Butter, for spreading on bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to let the beef cook in the slow cooker for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a fantastic option for a busy day, as you can set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by placing the cubed beef chuck roast, chopped onion, and minced garlic directly into your slow cooker. You’re building a great flavor base here!
2. Add the Other Ingredients:
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, the condensed tomato soup, the onion soup mix, and the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together. This will ensure that all the flavors meld beautifully as they cook.
3. Season It Up:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust flavors later, so start with a small amount and add more if needed.
4. Cook:
Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for about 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is fork-tender and bursting with flavor!
5. Toast the Bread:
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to serve, toast the slices of bread to your liking. Then, spread a little butter on each slice for added flavor.
6. Serve it Up:
Place the buttered toast on plates and ladle the hot beef and hearty tomato gravy right over the bread. This is the part where the dish truly comes together—it’s absolutely delicious!
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor this warm and comforting dish. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal at home!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Yes! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast. However, they may require different cooking times or methods to achieve the same tenderness.
What Can I Serve with This Dish Besides Bread?
If you’re looking for alternatives to bread, you can serve the beef Manhattan over mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles. Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad make great sides to balance the meal as well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can This Recipe Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge, then just pop them in the slow cooker in the morning. The flavors will deepen, and it’ll be ready to enjoy when you get home!
