Print

Beef Manhattan with Rich Gravy Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 130 reviews

Beef Manhattan is a comforting slow-cooked dish featuring tender beef chuck roast simmered in a rich brown gravy with onions, served over creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty meal is perfect for cozy family dinners, combining savory flavors with melt-in-your-mouth beef and smooth mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

Beef and Gravy

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, trimmed
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 packet brown gravy mix (about 1 oz)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Side

  • 3 cups mashed potatoes, prepared

Instructions

  1. Season the beef: Generously season the beef chuck roast with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring an even coating of spices for maximum flavor.
  2. Layer onions and beef: Place the sliced onion evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker, then lay the seasoned beef roast on top of the onions.
  3. Prepare and add gravy liquid: In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
  4. Cook slowly: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the low setting for 8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easy to shred.
  5. Thicken the gravy (optional): Carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker. Whisk in a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with cold water) into the cooking liquid to thicken the gravy. Return the shredded beef back to the thickened gravy and stir to coat.
  6. Serve: Place a scoop of prepared mashed potatoes on each plate. Top with a generous portion of shredded beef and ladle warm, rich brown gravy over everything.

Notes

  • For best texture, trim excess fat from the beef chuck roast before cooking.
  • You can prepare mashed potatoes from scratch or use store-bought for convenience.
  • If you prefer a thicker gravy, add the cornstarch slurry gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • This slow cooker method allows for hands-off cooking and tender beef every time.