When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a hearty Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan. Tender shredded beef served over thick slices of bread and smothered in rich brown gravy—this Midwestern classic is the ultimate stick-to-your-ribs meal. With the help of a slow cooker, you can enjoy all the flavor of a diner-style plate right at home, with minimal effort.
What Is Beef Manhattan?
Despite its name, Beef Manhattan isn’t from New York. This Midwestern comfort dish dates back to the 1940s, when workers at an Indiana defense plant requested “open-faced roast beef sandwiches” that reminded them of their travels. Today, it’s a beloved staple of diners and family kitchens, often served as a simple but satisfying dinner.
Why Make Beef Manhattan in a Slow Cooker?
- Effortless Cooking – Let the slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
- Tender Beef – Low and slow cooking breaks down the beef into juicy, pull-apart shreds.
- Flavor-Packed Gravy – Cooking the beef in broth and seasoning creates a deep, savory sauce.
- Perfect for Families – Picky eaters love it, and it’s budget-friendly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ½ – 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 packet brown gravy mix (plus extra if desired)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Thick slices of sandwich bread (Texas toast works best)
- Mashed potatoes (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Season the beef chuck roast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Layer the Crockpot
Place sliced onions and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the beef roast on top. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle the gravy mix over the beef.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
4. Shred the Beef
Remove the roast, shred with two forks, and return the meat to the gravy in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Assemble the Beef Manhattan
Place a thick slice of bread on a plate. Top with a scoop of mashed potatoes. Spoon shredded beef and plenty of gravy over the top.
Tips for the Best Beef Manhattan
- Beef Cut: Chuck roast works best for tenderness and flavor.
- Thicker Gravy: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the gravy before serving.
- Bread Choice: Texas toast, sourdough, or thick white sandwich bread hold up best.
- Make Ahead: Cook the beef a day in advance, refrigerate overnight, then reheat for even richer flavor.
What to Serve With Beef Manhattan
While the dish is hearty on its own, these sides make it extra comforting:
- Green beans or peas
- Coleslaw
- Side salad with ranch dressing
- Pickles for a tangy contrast
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze shredded beef with gravy (without bread or potatoes) for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding extra broth if the gravy thickens too much.
