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There’s nothing like this Manhattan Hot Shot to warm you up on a weeknight. You just need a few regular fridge staples to make it happen fast. It’s awesome for busy days because every forkful has soft bread, creamy potatoes, lots of savory meat, and a good scoop of gravy all together.
When I was a kid, this was what I’d beg for after school and now my kids run to the kitchen if they smell gravy bubbling away.
Hearty Ingredients
- Fresh bread slice: soft white or wheat slices work best, pick one that’s fluffy so it soaks up the sauce
- Mashed potatoes: homemade’s always great but store-bought works, Yukon Gold or russet types mash up creamy and smooth
- Meat like turkey, beef, or chicken: deli cuts or leftovers from home both taste juicy, just make sure it’s warmed before stacking
- Gravy: heat up whatever matches your meat, jarred or homemade works fine, just get it piping hot
Easy How-To
- Dive In and Eat:
- Dig in while it’s still hot. Team it up with crisp veggies or a fresh salad for a solid meal.
- Top It Off:
- Pour all the rest of the hot gravy so it drips down and covers every layer. Extra sauce is a must!
- Add Some Meat:
- Lay your steaming slices of chicken, beef, or turkey right on top. Try to spread them out for even bites.
- Gravy Goes On:
- Drop a little gravy straight over the potatoes so it soaks in good and cozy.
- Build That Mash:
- Next, pile a nice thick scoop of warm mashed potatoes all over the bread and gently press it flat.
- Start With Bread:
- Put a single soft bread slice down on a big plate. This is where the good stuff starts.
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What To Keep In Mind
- Great for feeding a hungry family on the cheap
- Works awesome for casual parties or simple, easy dinners
- Loaded with cozy favorites like gravy and roast meat
Honestly, my best part is getting that gravy around the edge of the plate and seeing it mix together. Every bite reminds me of my mom turning roast leftovers into a cozy dinner on cold nights after school.
How To Store
Put any extras away unassembled in sealed containers in your fridge. They’ll last about three days. Don’t make the sandwich until you’re ready to eat—this keeps the bread from going mushy.
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Swap Options
No mashed potatoes? Mix it up with sweet potato mash or even instant potatoes—they’ll both change things up and still taste good. Rotisserie chicken or thin pork slices work for the meat. For a veggie version, grab mushroom gravy and toss on grilled portobello slices.
Great Ways to Serve
Add simple veggies like green beans or steamed carrots for some color and crunch, or keep it classic with a fresh salad. If you want that diner feel, put a pickle or some slaw on the side.
Background Story
Folks call this one Hot Beef or Hot Turkey Sandwich in diners all over the Midwest and Northeast. It started with cooks turning leftover Sunday meat into open-faced favorites and has stuck around because it’s packed with comfort and makes leftovers exciting.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What meats work well for a Manhattan Hot Shot?
Grab whatever you prefer—roast beef, chicken, or turkey all taste great. It’s handy for using up whatever’s left in the fridge.
- → What's the best bread to use?
Soft white or wheat slices are perfect. They soak up that gravy and still hold together under your pile of toppings.
- → Is it okay to prep mashed potatoes early?
Sure thing. Fresh or leftover mash works great as long as you heat it up before putting everything together.
- → Does the gravy have to match the meat?
Yeah, it’s a good move—beef gravy goes best with beef, and chicken or turkey love poultry gravy.
- → What are some sides to have with this meal?
Steamed veggies or a crisp salad help lighten up your plate and make a well-rounded meal.
- → Can you switch to gluten-free bread?
For sure. Just swap in gluten-free slices so everyone can dig in and still get all those great flavors.