Name: Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489248H7M54S
Total time: 8 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 to 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks; 1 packet onion soup mix; 1 packet brown gravy mix; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; 4 cups prepared mashed potatoes; 6 to 8 slices prepared garlic bread

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A hearty comfort dish with deep Midwestern roots, Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is one of those meals I turn to when I want something that feels homey and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender beef slowly cooked in savory gravy, served over fluffy mashed potatoes and accompanied by crispy garlic bread—this dish brings warmth and comfort to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortlessly this dish comes together. The slow cooker handles most of the work while the flavors meld into a rich, savory combination. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, potlucks, or family dinners. Plus, the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly. Whether I’m serving it up on a chilly evening or looking for leftovers that taste even better the next day, Beef Manhattan never disappoints.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 to 3 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
1 packet onion soup mix
1 packet brown gravy mix
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
4 cups prepared mashed potatoes
6 to 8 slices prepared garlic bread

Directions

Prepare the Beef
I start by placing the chunks of beef chuck roast into a 4-quart slow cooker, making sure they’re evenly spread out.
Add the Flavors
I sprinkle the onion soup mix and brown gravy mix evenly over the meat. These mixes provide a rich, savory base.
Incorporate the Vinegar
I pour the apple cider vinegar right over the beef and seasoning. It gives the dish a nice tang that enhances the meaty flavors.
Cook Low and Slow
I cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 7 to 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
Assemble the Plate
Once cooked, I serve the shredded beef and gravy over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, with garlic bread slices on the side (or even underneath the beef for that true open-faced style).

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. The active prep time is just 10 minutes, while the cooking time in the slow cooker is approximately 7–8 hours on low. It’s perfect to start in the morning and have ready by dinnertime.

Variations

Make it spicy: A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes adds a little heat if that’s what I’m craving.
Use different bread: Instead of garlic bread, I’ve used toasted sourdough or even dinner rolls for a unique twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I usually warm the beef and gravy in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. The mashed potatoes can be microwaved or warmed on the stovetop with a bit of butter or milk to restore creaminess. Garlic bread is best reheated in the oven to keep it crisp.

FAQs

How do I know when the beef is done?

I check that the beef is fork-tender and easy to shred. If it’s still a bit tough after 7 hours, I let it go another hour in the slow cooker.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, I can cook it on high for about 4 to 5 hours, but I prefer low for the most tender texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. I freeze the beef and gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. I just don’t freeze the mashed potatoes or garlic bread, as their texture can suffer.

What kind of mashed potatoes work best?

I like using homemade mashed potatoes with butter and cream, but store-bought prepared mashed potatoes also work great when I’m short on time.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free versions of the onion soup mix and gravy mix, and make sure my mashed potatoes and bread are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is everything I want in a cozy meal—rich, tender, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to prepare, incredibly filling, and always a hit with guests and family alike. Whether I’m enjoying it fresh out of the slow cooker or savoring leftovers the next day, this dish never fails to deliver pure comfort on a plate.