Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a super comforting and delicious recipe that's perfect for a cozy night in: Instant Pot Beef Manhattan. This dish is a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. If you're craving something warm, savory, and satisfying, you've come to the right place. Let's get started!

Why Instant Pot Beef Manhattan?

Before we jump into the recipe, let's talk about why this dish is a must-try. Beef Manhattan is a classic American comfort food, typically consisting of tender slices of beef served over bread and smothered in gravy. The Instant Pot version takes all the traditional flavors and simplifies the cooking process, making it quicker and more convenient without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. This method ensures that the beef is incredibly tender and the gravy is rich and flavorful.

Using an Instant Pot offers several advantages. Firstly, it drastically reduces the cooking time compared to traditional methods. What might take hours on the stovetop or in the oven can be achieved in a fraction of the time with the Instant Pot. Secondly, it's a hands-off approach. Once you've prepped your ingredients and set the Instant Pot, you can walk away and let it do its thing. Thirdly, the Instant Pot locks in the moisture, resulting in a super tender and juicy beef. Finally, cleanup is a breeze – everything cooks in one pot!

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: why should you choose this recipe over others? Well, this recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward. We’re using common ingredients that you can easily find in your local grocery store, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding. Plus, we’ll share some tips and tricks along the way to ensure your Beef Manhattan turns out perfectly every time. We'll cover everything from selecting the right cut of beef to achieving the perfect gravy consistency. So, grab your Instant Pot, and let's get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this mouthwatering Instant Pot Beef Manhattan, you'll need the following ingredients. Don't worry; most of these are pantry staples!

• Beef: 2 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes. The chuck roast is ideal because it becomes incredibly tender when cooked under pressure.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for searing the beef.
• Onion: 1 large onion, chopped. This forms the base of our flavorful gravy.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Because garlic makes everything better!
• Beef Broth: 4 cups. Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons. This adds a rich, umami flavor.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons. This helps to thicken the gravy and adds depth of flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup. For thickening the gravy.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Thyme complements the beef beautifully.
• Dried Rosemary: 1 teaspoon. Adds a warm, aromatic note.
• Bay Leaf: 1. For extra flavor. Remember to remove it before serving!
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously!
• Bread: Slices of your favorite bread, for serving. Texas toast, sourdough, or even regular white bread works well.
• Butter: For toasting the bread (optional but recommended).

Make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you want a richer flavor, use bone broth instead of regular beef broth. The key is to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique version of Beef Manhattan.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the most amazing Instant Pot Beef Manhattan you've ever tasted.

1. Sear the Beef:
   • Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up.
   • Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
   • Working in batches, sear the beef on all sides until nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor. Don't overcrowd the pot, or the beef will steam instead of sear. Remove the seared beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Add the chopped onion to the Instant Pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – those are packed with flavor!
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Build the Sauce:
   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will help to thicken the gravy.
   • Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring to ensure there are no lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf.
4. Pressure Cook:
   • Return the seared beef to the Instant Pot. Make sure the beef is submerged in the liquid. If not, add a little more beef broth.
   • Cancel the 'Sauté' function. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode for 35 minutes.
   • Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
5. Shred the Beef and Thicken the Gravy:
   • Carefully remove the beef from the Instant Pot and shred it with two forks. It should be incredibly tender and fall apart easily.
   • If the gravy is too thin, select the 'Sauté' function again and let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also make a slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk it into the gravy to thicken it quickly.
   • Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Toast the Bread:
   • While the gravy is thickening, toast slices of your favorite bread. You can spread butter on the bread before toasting for extra flavor.
7. Assemble and Serve:
   • Place the toasted bread on a plate, top with the shredded beef, and smother generously with the gravy.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Beef Manhattan

To ensure your Instant Pot Beef Manhattan is a resounding success, here are a few extra tips and tricks:

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: While chuck roast is our go-to choice, you can also use brisket or round roast. The key is to select a cut that has good marbling, as this will result in a more tender and flavorful dish.
• Don't Skip the Searing: Searing the beef is a crucial step that adds depth of flavor to the dish. It creates a Maillard reaction, which is responsible for the rich, browned flavor that we all love. Make sure to sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
• Deglaze the Pot: After searing the beef, make sure to deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and will add richness to the gravy.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don't be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
• Thicken the Gravy to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can use a cornstarch slurry or let it simmer for a longer period of time. If you prefer a thinner gravy, add a little more beef broth.
• Serve with Your Favorite Sides: Beef Manhattan is delicious on its own, but it's also great served with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. Feel free to get creative and pair it with your favorite sides.
• Make It Ahead: Beef Manhattan is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations and add-ins to customize your Instant Pot Beef Manhattan:

• Add Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, or potatoes to the Instant Pot for a heartier dish. These vegetables will add extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs to create unique flavor profiles. Try using fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley instead of dried herbs.
• Add a Splash of Red Wine: Add a splash of red wine to the Instant Pot for a richer, more complex flavor. Use a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Instant Pot for a spicy kick.
• Add Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the Instant Pot for an earthy, umami flavor. Use cremini, shiitake, or portobello mushrooms.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Manhattan is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Beef Manhattan: Serve the shredded beef and gravy over toasted bread for a classic presentation.
• Open-Faced Sandwich: Serve the beef and gravy on a single slice of bread for an open-faced sandwich.
• Mashed Potato Bowl: Top a bowl of mashed potatoes with the shredded beef and gravy for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Noodle Bowl: Serve the beef and gravy over egg noodles or pasta for a hearty and flavorful noodle bowl.
• Beef Manhattan Sliders: Serve the shredded beef and gravy on slider buns for a fun and easy appetizer.

Conclusion

There you have it! A simple, delicious, and comforting Instant Pot Beef Manhattan recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. The Instant Pot makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare, and the result is a tender, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend feast, this recipe has got you covered. So, grab your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy the best Beef Manhattan you’ve ever had! Happy cooking, and bon appétit!