The Ultimate Beef Manhattan recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish

Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen!  When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the hearty and delicious Beef Manhattan.  Growing up in West Virginia this was known as Open-Faced Roast Beef Sandwiches, but no matter what you call it, this classic American recipe, featuring tender roast beef, rich gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes, is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.  

Follow my step-by-step guide to create the ultimate Beef Manhattan that will impress your family and friends.  I can't wait to share it with you so...

Let's Get Started!

WHAT IS BEEF MANHATTAN:

Beef Manhattan is a beloved dish originating from the Midwest, particularly popular in diners and home kitchens.  It consists of sliced roast beef served over white bread with a generous helping of mashed potatoes, all smothered in savory brown gravy.  This meal is the epitome of comfort food, combining simple ingredients create a flavorful and satisfying dish.  

INGREDIENTS:

To make the best Beef Manhattan, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Roast Beef:

• 1 3-4 lb. Beef Chuck Roast
• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• 1 c. Dry Red Wine (optional)
• 4 c. Beef Stock
• 6-8 Cremini Mushrooms, sliced
• 1 Onion, sliced
• 4-6 Cloves of Garlic, crushed

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 Large Russet Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1/4 cup Butter
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp. Corn Starch
• 1/4 cup Cold Water
• Salt & Pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1:  Prepare the Roast Beef 

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F/165°C.
2. Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. 
3. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch Oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.  
4. Sear the roast beef on all sides until browned.
5. Add the red wine to the pot. Let it simmer and reduce by half.  
6. Add the mushroom, onion, and garlic to the pan and add the beef broth.
7. Season with salt and pepper, cover and place in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours or until beef is tender and easily shredded. 

Step 2:  Make the Mashed Potatoes:

1. While the beef is roasting, prepare the mashed potatoes.  
2. In a large pot, bring the peeled and cubed potatoes to a boil in salted water. 
3. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
5. Add the milk and butter, then mash until smooth and creamy. 
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3:  Prepare the Gravy:

1. Once the beef is done, remove it from the pot and set aside to rest.  
2. Strain the cooking liquid to remove the solids (optional), then measure out 2 cups of broth.  
3. Return the broth to the pot and place over medium heat. 
4. In a small bowl combine the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
5. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering broth.
6. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the gravy thickens. 
7. Season with Salt and Pepper to taste. 

Step 4:  Assemble the Beef Manhattan:

1. Shred the cooked beef or cut into slices.
2. Toast the sliced of white bread.
3. Place a slice of toasted bread on each plate.
4. Add a scoop of mashed potatoes on each piece. 
5. Top with a generous amount of sliced roast beef.
6. Pour the rich gravy over the entire dish.

TIPS FOR THE PERFECT BEEF MANHATTAN:

• Slow Cooking:  For the most tender roast beef, cook it low and slow.  This allows the meat to break down and become melt-in-your-mouth delicious. 
• Gravy Consistency:  Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more broth if it's too thick or more slurry if it's too thin.
• Bread Choice:  White bread is traditional, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as sour dough.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can this be done in the crockpot?

Yes.  Follow the instructions above to the point where you would add the vegetables and broth.  Instead, transfer the seared beef and wine into a crockpot.  Add the veggies and broth.  Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or HIGH for 4 hours.  Remove the beef.  Pour the juices into a sauce pan to make the gravy, and follow the instructions above the rest of the way.  

Can this recipe be made in the Instant Pot?

Absolutely!  Press the Sauté button on your Instant Pot and sear the chuck roast as listed above.  Reduce the wine as well, then add the veggies and broth to the Instant Pot. Place the lid on top and move the valve to SEALING.  Press MANUAL (or PRESSURE COOK) and set the timer for approximately 60 minutes (20 minutes per pound).  When roast is done cooking allow the instant pot to do a natural release, about 30 minutes.  Remove the roast from the instant pot.  Press the SAUTE button and follow the gravy instructions above.  Assemble according to instructions above.  

Beef Manhattan is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.  With tender roast beef, creamy mashed potatoes,  and a flavorful gravy, it's a dish that's sure to become a family favorite.  Give this recipe a try and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!  

And as always...

Happy Eatin' Y'all!
~The Kitchen Wife~