Easy Instant Pot Beef Manhattan Recipe

by Alex Braham 39 views

Hey guys! Are you looking for a comfort food recipe that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further! This Instant Pot Beef Manhattan recipe is exactly what you need. It's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, and the Instant Pot makes it incredibly simple to prepare. Let's dive into how to make this amazing dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

First off, the beauty of using an Instant Pot is that it cuts down the cooking time significantly. What would normally take hours on the stovetop or in a slow cooker can be done in a fraction of the time. This is a game-changer for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, the Instant Pot helps to tenderize the beef, making it incredibly juicy and flavorful.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. This makes it a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on taste. The combination of tender beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and rich gravy creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and comforted.

Beef Manhattan is a classic dish that has been around for generations. It typically consists of slices of tender beef served over mashed potatoes and smothered in gravy. This Instant Pot version stays true to the traditional flavors while adding the convenience of modern cooking technology. It's a dish that's sure to bring back memories of family dinners and cozy nights at home. The hearty gravy, infused with the flavors of the beef, coats the potatoes and meat perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Each bite is a comforting experience that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this delicious Instant Pot Beef Manhattan, you'll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • Mashed potatoes, for serving

Ingredient Breakdown

Let's break down these ingredients to understand why they're essential for the recipe:

  • Beef Chuck Roast: This cut of beef is perfect for the Instant Pot because it becomes incredibly tender when cooked under pressure. The marbling of fat throughout the chuck roast helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the cooking process. Cutting it into 1-inch cubes ensures that the beef cooks evenly and quickly.
  • Olive Oil: Used for searing the beef, olive oil adds a subtle flavor and helps to create a nice crust on the meat. This searing process is crucial for developing a rich, deep flavor in the final dish.
  • Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the base of the gravy, adding depth and complexity to the flavor. Chopping the onion and mincing the garlic releases their essential oils, which infuse the broth with their savory goodness.
  • Beef Broth: The liquid component of the recipe, beef broth, provides moisture and flavor to the beef as it cooks. It also forms the base of the gravy, which is thickened later with cornstarch.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This sauce adds a tangy, savory note to the gravy, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. A little goes a long way, so don't be tempted to add too much.
  • Dried Thyme and Rosemary: These herbs add a touch of herbaceousness to the gravy, complementing the richness of the beef. They provide a warm, earthy flavor that balances the other ingredients.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients. Adjust the amount to your liking.
  • Cornstarch: Used to thicken the gravy at the end of the cooking process. When mixed with cold water, cornstarch creates a slurry that prevents lumps from forming when added to the hot broth.
  • Mashed Potatoes: The classic accompaniment to Beef Manhattan, mashed potatoes provide a creamy, comforting base for the tender beef and rich gravy. Feel free to use your favorite mashed potato recipe or store-bought mashed potatoes for convenience.

Equipment You'll Need

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

  • Instant Pot: This is the star of the show, as it allows you to cook the beef quickly and efficiently.
  • Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping the beef and vegetables.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Whisk: For mixing the cornstarch slurry.
  • Serving Spoons: For serving the dish.

A Note on the Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, from pressure cooking to slow cooking to sautéing. It's important to familiarize yourself with your specific model of Instant Pot before using it for this recipe. Make sure you understand how to operate the pressure cooking function and how to release the pressure safely.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let's get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the perfect Instant Pot Beef Manhattan:

  1. Sear the Beef: Turn on the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches and sear on all sides until browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor in the final dish. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Add Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
  4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
  5. Thicken Gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Open the Instant Pot lid and turn on the sauté function. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the pot and stir continuously until the gravy thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve: Serve the tender beef and rich gravy over mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Don't overcrowd the pot: When searing the beef, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the pot and prevent the beef from browning properly.
  • Use high-quality beef broth: The quality of the beef broth will significantly impact the flavor of the gravy. Use a good quality broth or homemade broth for the best results.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste: Taste the gravy after it has thickened and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to suit your preferences.
  • Make ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will actually deepen and meld together as it sits.
  • Serve with your favorite sides: In addition to mashed potatoes, this dish pairs well with other sides such as green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple salad.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

  • Add vegetables: Add chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the pot along with the onion and garlic for a heartier dish.
  • Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as bay leaf, oregano, or sage to change the flavor profile.
  • Substitute red wine: Add a splash of red wine to the pot along with the beef broth for a richer, more complex flavor.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot for a touch of heat.
  • Use sweet potatoes: Serve the beef and gravy over mashed sweet potatoes instead of regular mashed potatoes for a sweeter twist.

Serving Suggestions

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

  • Classic: Serve over mashed potatoes with a side of green beans or roasted carrots.
  • Comfort Food: Serve with a side of mac and cheese or cornbread for a truly comforting meal.
  • Elegant: Serve over a bed of creamy polenta with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a more sophisticated presentation.
  • Potluck: Bring this dish to a potluck or family gathering and watch it disappear!
  • Leftovers: Use the leftovers to make sandwiches or wraps for a quick and easy lunch.

Nutritional Information

Here's a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving:

  • Calories: 450-550
  • Protein: 30-40g
  • Fat: 20-30g
  • Carbohydrates: 20-30g

Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Conclusion

There you have it! A simple and delicious Instant Pot Beef Manhattan recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare, and the tender beef and rich gravy are incredibly satisfying. So grab your Instant Pot and get cooking! You won't be disappointed. Enjoy, guys!