Hey guys! Today, we are diving into a super comforting and easy-to-make recipe: Instant Pot Beef Manhattan. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot makes this classic recipe a breeze, ensuring the beef is tender and the gravy is rich and delicious. Let’s get started!

What is Beef Manhattan?

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about what Beef Manhattan actually is. Originating from, you guessed it, Manhattan, Kansas, this dish is a Midwestern staple. It typically consists of tender slices of beef served open-faced on bread and smothered in a savory brown gravy. It’s comfort food at its finest, and the Instant Pot version takes it to a whole new level of convenience and flavor.

The traditional method involves slow-cooking the beef for hours to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture. However, with the magic of the Instant Pot, we can achieve the same result in a fraction of the time. The pressure cooking process tenderizes the beef quickly, infusing it with the flavors of the broth and seasonings. The result is a dish that tastes like it has been simmering all day, even though it only takes about an hour to make.

Beef Manhattan is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine biting into a slice of tender beef, the rich gravy coating your taste buds, all while resting on a slice of perfectly toasted bread. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that come together to create a truly unforgettable dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, Beef Manhattan is sure to be a hit.

So, why should you try making Beef Manhattan in your Instant Pot? The answer is simple: it’s easy, it’s fast, and it’s incredibly delicious. The Instant Pot does all the hard work for you, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze, which is always a bonus in my book. Are you ready to try making this amazing dish? Let’s dive into the recipe and get started!

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this mouthwatering Instant Pot Beef Manhattan, gather these ingredients:

• 2 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes. When choosing your beef, look for a roast with good marbling. The fat will render down during cooking, adding richness and flavor to the gravy. Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes incredibly tender under pressure cooking. If you can’t find chuck roast, you can also use brisket or round roast, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil is essential for browning the beef, which adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor of the dish. You can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer, but I find that olive oil gives the best results.
• 1 large onion, chopped. Onions are a foundational ingredient in many savory dishes, and Beef Manhattan is no exception. They add sweetness and aroma to the gravy. Make sure to chop the onion into small, uniform pieces so that they cook evenly.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and savory note to the dish. Freshly minced garlic is always best, but you can also use jarred minced garlic if you’re in a pinch. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
• 4 cups beef broth. Beef broth is the liquid base of the gravy. I recommend using a high-quality beef broth for the best flavor. You can also use beef stock if you prefer, but be aware that it may be saltier.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami flavor to the gravy. It’s a key ingredient in many classic beef dishes, and it really enhances the overall taste of Beef Manhattan.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Thyme is a classic herb that pairs perfectly with beef. It adds a subtle earthy and aromatic note to the dish. You can also use fresh thyme if you have it on hand; just be sure to remove the stems before adding it to the Instant Pot.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary. Rosemary is another great herb to use with beef. It has a strong, piney flavor that complements the richness of the meat. Use it sparingly, as it can be overpowering.
• Salt and pepper to taste. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the beef and gravy. Be sure to taste the dish as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Remember, you can always add more salt and pepper, but you can’t take it away.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Cornstarch is used to thicken the gravy. Mix it with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the Instant Pot. This will prevent lumps from forming in the gravy.
• Cold water. Cold water is used to make the cornstarch slurry. Be sure to use cold water, as hot water can cause the cornstarch to clump together.
• Bread slices for serving. You can use any type of bread you like for serving Beef Manhattan. I prefer using thick slices of white bread or sourdough bread. Toast the bread lightly before serving to add a bit of texture and prevent it from getting soggy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Instant Pot Beef Manhattan:

1. Sear the Beef: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for a minute or two. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Sear the beef on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This step is crucial because searing the beef adds a delicious depth of flavor to the dish. Remove the beef from the Instant Pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the Instant Pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Sautéing the onions and garlic releases their flavors and creates a flavorful base for the gravy.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot, loosening any browned bits that may be stuck. This process, called deglazing, is important because it prevents the “Burn” notice and adds even more flavor to the gravy. Make sure to scrape thoroughly to get all those delicious browned bits.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the seared beef back into the Instant Pot. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami flavor, while the thyme and rosemary add a subtle herbal note. Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential for bringing out the flavors of the beef and gravy.
5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 35 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. Natural pressure release helps the beef become even more tender.
6. Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This creates a slurry that will thicken the gravy. Open the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function again. Gradually pour the cornstarch slurry into the Instant Pot, stirring constantly until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
7. Serve: Toast the bread slices lightly. Place the toasted bread on a plate, top with the tender beef, and generously ladle the gravy over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy! You can also garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of mashed potatoes for an extra touch.

Tips for the Perfect Beef Manhattan

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When searing the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the Instant Pot. Searing in batches allows the beef to brown properly, which adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
• Use High-Quality Beef Broth: The quality of your beef broth will greatly impact the flavor of the gravy. Opt for a low-sodium, high-quality broth for the best results.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Be sure to taste the gravy as it cooks and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your liking.
• Toast the Bread: Toasting the bread adds a nice texture and prevents it from getting soggy when you pour the gravy over it.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor: Garnish with fresh parsley, mashed potatoes, or a sprinkle of cheese for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are a few variations and add-ins you can try:

• Add Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, or potatoes to the Instant Pot along with the beef for a heartier dish. These vegetables will add more flavor and texture to the dish, making it a complete meal.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as bay leaf, oregano, or marjoram to create a unique flavor profile.
• Add a Splash of Red Wine: Add a splash of red wine to the Instant Pot after deglazing for a richer, more complex flavor.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little bit of heat.
• Serve with Mashed Potatoes: For an even heartier meal, serve the Beef Manhattan over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Manhattan is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Classic Beef Manhattan: Serve the beef and gravy over toasted bread for the traditional Beef Manhattan experience.
• Open-Faced Sandwich: Serve the beef and gravy on a single slice of bread for an open-faced sandwich.
• Over Mashed Potatoes: Serve the beef and gravy over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• With a Side Salad: Serve Beef Manhattan with a side salad for a balanced and complete meal.
• As a Hot Beef Sundae: Layer mashed potatoes, beef, gravy, and a cherry tomato on top for a fun and playful twist.

Conclusion

There you have it – a super easy and delicious Instant Pot Beef Manhattan recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. The Instant Pot makes this classic dish incredibly simple and quick to prepare, without sacrificing any of the flavor. So, the next time you’re craving some comforting, home-cooked goodness, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed! Enjoy, and happy cooking!