Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe
Introduction
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a classic comfort food that combines tender, slow-cooked beef with creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy all served over toasted bread. This hearty dish is perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying, flavorful meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef roast (chuck or round works well)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 6 slices of bread (white or Texas toast style)
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or prepared)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the sliced onion in the bottom of your slow cooker, then lay the beef roast on top of the onions.
- Step 2: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the beef.
- Step 3: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt evenly over the beef.
- Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and easy to shred.
- Step 5: Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks.
- Step 6: Strain out the onions from the broth and return the broth to the slow cooker or a saucepan.
- Step 7: Mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the broth to thicken it into a gravy. Heat until thickened.
- Step 8: To serve, place a slice of bread on each plate, top with mashed potatoes, add shredded beef, and ladle the gravy generously over the top.
Tips & Variations
- Try using whole-grain or sourdough bread for added texture and nutrition.
- Add cooked vegetables like carrots or green beans on the side for a well-rounded meal.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more cornstarch slurry a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Use leftover roast beef or pot roast to speed up preparation on busy days.
Storage
Store leftover beef, mashed potatoes, and gravy separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much. Bread is best served fresh but can be toasted again before serving leftovers.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, chuck roast or round roast are best for slow cooking because they become tender and flavorful over time. You can also try brisket or shoulder roast if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the beef and gravy in the slow cooker the day before, refrigerate, and reheat when ready to serve. Assemble the dish just before eating to keep the bread from getting soggy.
PrintSlow Cooker Beef Manhattan Recipe
Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is a classic American comfort food featuring tender slow-cooked beef served over toasted bread, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich, savory brown gravy. This hearty dish is a nostalgic open-faced sandwich that combines deep flavors with easy preparation, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 pounds beef roast (chuck or round)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry)
To Serve
- 6 slices of bread (white or Texas toast style)
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or prepared)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the sliced onion at the bottom of your slow cooker to form a flavorful base layer.
- Add the Beef: Lay the beef roast on top of the onions in the slow cooker, ensuring it sits evenly for consistent cooking.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the beef. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt evenly on top.
- Cook the Beef: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
- Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Gravy: Strain out the onions from the slow cooker broth, then return the broth to the pot. Stir in a cornstarch slurry made from 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water. Cook until the mixture thickens into a rich gravy.
- Assemble the Dish: Place a slice of toasted bread on each plate, top with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes, add shredded beef on top, then ladle the brown gravy over everything.
Notes
- For best results, use a chuck roast or round roast as they become tender and flavorful when slow cooked.
- You can add vegetables like carrots or green beans as a side dish to make the meal more balanced.
- Whole grain bread is a good alternative to white or Texas toast for added fiber and nutrients.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, add an extra half tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Mashed potatoes can be homemade or store-bought depending on convenience.
- Make sure to cook the gravy slurry over medium heat while stirring to avoid lumps.
Keywords: Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan, open-faced sandwich, comfort food, slow cooked beef, brown gravy, mashed potatoes

