Introduction
Welcome to a comforting dish that promises to fill your home with appetizing aromas and your hearts with warmth! This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is the perfect solution for a busy day, allowing you to indulge in a hearty, flavorful sandwich without spending hours in the kitchen. Picture tender, shredded beef slow-cooked in a rich broth, nestled in a soft hoagie roll and topped with melty provolone cheese. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large hoagie rolls
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until it develops a beautiful, golden-brown crust, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Once seared, place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker, allowing their flavors to infuse into the beef.
- Carefully transfer the seared beef chuck roast to the slow cooker, resting it on top of the onions and garlic.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Pour this fragrant mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and then cover. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender, perfect for shredding with a fork.
- After the cooking time is complete, remove the beef from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the beef, and then return it to the slow cooker, mixing it well with the juices.
- To serve, take a generous portion of the tender beef mixture and pile it onto each hoagie roll. Top with a sprinkle of shredded provolone cheese.
- If you like your cheese gooey and sizzling, place the assembled sandwiches under a broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese to perfection before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep — simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar if provolone isn’t available!
Cooking Techniques
Searing the beef is a crucial step in this recipe as it enhances the flavor profile, creating a rich, caramelized crust that locks in juices. Slow cooking is key here; it allows the beef to break down into tender shreds while absorbing all the delicious flavors from the broth and spices. This method ensures a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in sandwich form!
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, you can use brisket or even round, though you may need to adjust cooking times.
Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the shredded beef mixture for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef Manhattan is the embodiment of comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. The simple method and the effortless resulting sandwiches allow you to enjoy rich, hearty flavors with minimal fuss. So gather around the table, and let the good times and delicious food begin!