Savory Beef Manhattan For dinner has always been my go-to when I need a meal that feels both hearty and familiar. I remember my mom making this dish on chilly evenings, the aroma of seasoned beef and rich gravy filling our kitchen. The steam rising from the fluffy mashed potatoes was always a sign that comfort was about to be served. This easy Savory Manhattan beef recipe is perfect for those nights when you crave something satisfying without a lot of fuss. Get ready to create your own delicious memories – let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Savory Ground Beef Manhattan
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s pure comfort! You’ll adore how simple it is to whip up.
- Incredibly satisfying and hearty.
- Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- The homemade gravy is unbelievably rich and flavorful, making it a true Beef Manhattan casserole savory delight.
- It’s a fantastic way to use up pantry staples.
- The combination of tender beef and creamy mashed potatoes is unbeatable.
- This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a standout meal.
- It’s the ultimate comfort food experience, a truly Beef Manhattan casserole savory dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings.

Ingredients for Savory Beef Manhattan
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delightful Savory Beef Manhattan with gravy. This dish relies on pantry staples and fresh ground beef to create that classic comfort food flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef – the star of our savory dish!
- 1 medium onion, chopped – for a sweet and savory base
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds a pungent depth
- 1 teaspoon salt – essential for flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a gentle kick
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – this helps thicken our rich gravy
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth – the foundation of our luscious sauce
- 1/2 cup water – to get the perfect gravy consistency
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – for umami and complexity
- 1 tablespoon ketchup – adds a touch of sweetness and tang
- 4 cups mashed potatoes – creamy and fluffy, the perfect bed for our beef
- 1/4 cup butter – to make those mashed potatoes extra rich
- 1/4 cup milk – for smooth, luxurious mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste – for final seasoning adjustments
How to Make Savory Beef Manhattan
Let’s get to the heart of this classic comfort dish! Follow these simple steps to create a truly delicious Savory Beef Manhattan that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Step 1: Start by browning your beef. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the 1 pound ground beef along with the 1 medium onion, chopped and 2 cloves garlic, minced. Stir occasionally until the beef is nicely browned and the onion has softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease; this is key for a less heavy dish.
- Step 2: Season and thicken. Stir in the 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper into the beef mixture. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour evenly over the meat and onions. Stir everything together well for about a minute to coat the ingredients and toast the flour slightly.
- Step 3: Create the rich gravy. Gradually pour in the 1 1/2 cups beef broth and 1/2 cup water, stirring constantly as you add the liquids. This constant stirring helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, watching as it begins to thicken.
- Step 4: Add flavor and simmer. Stir in the 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon ketchup. These ingredients add a wonderful depth and a hint of tanginess. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for at least 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the gravy is wonderfully thick and fragrant – this is a crucial step in how to make savory beef Manhattan.
- Step 5: Prepare the creamy mashed potatoes. While the beef mixture is simmering, get your mashed potatoes ready. In a medium bowl, combine the 4 cups mashed potatoes with the 1/4 cup butter and 1/4 cup milk. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Beat with a fork or whisk until they are smooth, fluffy, and wonderfully creamy.
- Step 6: Assemble your masterpiece. To serve, spoon a generous mound of the warm mashed potatoes onto each plate. This is the foundation for your delicious creation, truly showing how to make savory beef Manhattan perfect.
- Step 7: Top it off. Ladle a hearty portion of the savory beef and gravy mixture over the mashed potatoes. Make sure to get plenty of that rich sauce! Serving this immediately ensures the best texture and temperature for this comforting dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Savory Beef Manhattan
Want to elevate your Savory Beef Manhattan game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in achieving that perfect, comforting dish.
- Don’t skip draining the grease from the ground beef; it keeps the gravy from being too heavy.
- For an even richer flavor, consider using half ground beef and half ground pork.
- If your gravy isn’t thickening enough, whisk in another tablespoon of flour mixed with a little cold water before simmering.
- Letting the beef mixture simmer for a full 10 minutes is crucial for developing that deep, savory flavor.
What’s the secret to perfect Savory Beef Manhattan?
The real secret to the best savory beef Manhattan is slow simmering the gravy after adding the seasonings. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and creates that signature rich, thick sauce.
Can I make Savory Beef Manhattan ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and mashed potatoes separately up to 2 days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave. It makes for a super easy Savory beef Manhattan for lunch.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Savory Beef Manhattan?
A common pitfall is lumpy gravy; stir constantly when adding liquids. Another mistake is not browning the beef properly, which impacts flavor. This Savory beef Manhattan recipe easy is forgiving, but proper browning and steady stirring are key!
Best Ways to Serve Savory Beef Manhattan
This hearty dish is a meal in itself, but a few thoughtful pairings can make it even more special. The classic presentation of Savory beef Manhattan with mashed potatoes is always a winner, creating that iconic open-faced sandwich experience everyone loves. For complementary sides, think about what adds a fresh contrast to the richness. Simple steamed green beans or a light, crisp coleslaw are fantastic Savory beef Manhattan side dishes that cut through the savory gravy beautifully. You could also serve it with a side of buttered corn or a simple garden salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts for Savory Beef Manhattan
This Savory Beef Manhattan is a satisfying meal, and here’s a breakdown of its nutritional highlights per serving. Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary slightly based on specific ingredients and preparation.
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Savory Beef Manhattan
This delicious Savory Beef Manhattan is pure comfort food, and thankfully, it stores and reheats beautifully! Once you’ve enjoyed this hearty meal, let any leftovers cool completely before storing. I like to portion mine into airtight containers, ensuring each serving has both the beef mixture and mashed potatoes. This makes reheating a breeze for a quick lunch or another cozy dinner. Store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep this savory delight for longer, it freezes wonderfully too! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, I usually thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Then, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it into the microwave until heated through. Be patient when reheating to maintain the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Beef Manhattan
What is savory beef Manhattan?
A savory beef Manhattan is a classic American open-faced sandwich. It features a rich, savory beef and gravy mixture served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, often on a slice of bread, though this version is served directly on the potatoes. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Is this a savory ground beef Manhattan recipe?
Yes, this is a fantastic savory ground beef Manhattan recipe! It uses readily available ground beef, which makes it incredibly easy and quick to prepare. The ground beef cooks down beautifully into the savory gravy, creating a tender and flavorful base for the dish.
Can I use steak instead of ground beef?
While this recipe is designed for ground beef for ease and texture, you could certainly adapt it. If you want to use steak, I’d recommend cubing a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye and simmering it in the gravy until tender. This would create a slightly different, but still delicious, variation of the dish.
What are the best side dishes for Savory Beef Manhattan?
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but a simple side can round out the meal nicely. I often opt for steamed green beans or a light, crisp salad to add a fresh contrast. Some people also enjoy a side of buttered peas or corn. The key is to pick something that complements the richness without overpowering it.
Variations of Savory Beef Manhattan You Can Try
This classic dish is wonderfully versatile, and there are so many delicious Savory Beef Manhattan variations to explore! Whether you’re looking for a dietary swap or a flavor twist, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a lighter take, try using lean ground turkey or even a plant-based crumble. You can also experiment with different seasonings in your gravy, like a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth or a dash of cayenne for a little heat. If you prefer a different base, consider serving this savory mixture over roasted potatoes or even a thick slice of toasted artisan bread to create a more traditional Savory beef Manhattan open-faced sandwich experience. These simple adjustments can completely transform the dish while keeping that comforting essence you love.
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Savory Beef Manhattan For A Hearty Meal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory beef Manhattan recipe featuring tender beef in a rich gravy over mashed potatoes. This open-faced sandwich is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in salt and pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat.
- Gradually add the beef broth and water, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
- While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes. In a medium bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, butter, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- To assemble the savory beef Manhattan, spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate.
- Top the mashed potatoes with a portion of the savory beef mixture.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve with a side of green beans or a simple salad.
- This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg












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