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This Manhattan Hot Shot Sandwich is the kind of comforting meal that comes together in a flash but tastes like a full diner experience at home. Whether you go for roast beef, turkey, or chicken, it is swoon-worthy thanks to a pile of creamy mashed potatoes, a slice of soft bread, and rivers of savory gravy. Whenever my family needs a quick Sunday lunch that feels special, this is what lands on our plates.
I started making this after a trip to a Midwest diner. The creamy potatoes and warm gravy hit the spot and now my husband asks for it every snowy day.
Ingredients
- Sliced roast beef roast turkey or roast chicken: These bring hearty flavor and protein to the table and any work well so just use what you have or pick your favorite at your local deli
- Hot mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes act as both the flavor base and the main source of comfort Be sure you use ones with real butter and plenty of seasoning for best results Homemade or good quality store-bought both work
- Hot gravy: A good savory gravy brings all the flavors together Choose a variety that matches your selected meat and warm it until bubbly before pouring
- Soft white or wheat bread: This soaks up all the delicious gravy and supports the sandwich Stick with classic sandwich bread or a soft homemade loaf if you are feeling fancy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Lay one slice of soft bread in the center of your serving plate The bread should be soft and fresh so it does not fall apart but holds up under the toppings
- Add the Potatoes:
- Spoon hot mashed potatoes generously over the bread Spread them to fully cover and make sure they are piping hot for the ultimate comfort factor
- First Hit of Gravy:
- Pour a little bit of your hot gravy over the mashed potatoes This seals in moisture and lets the bread underneath start soaking in flavor
- Pile on the Meat:
- Arrange warm slices of your chosen roast meat evenly over the mashed potatoes This way every bite gets a perfect balance of flavors
- Final Ladle of Gravy:
- Generously spoon the remaining hot gravy on top Allow it to cascade down and coat everything creating the classic look and taste of a true diner sandwich
- Finish and Serve:
- Serve your hot shot sandwich right away with a crisp side salad or hot vegetables for a complete meal
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My favorite part is definitely the gravy I remember as a child licking my plate clean because I could never get enough of it Fresh hot gravy really ties the whole dish together and reminds me of family dinners after church.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers store each component separately in airtight containers The bread can get soggy if left assembled too long Reheat the meat and potatoes thoroughly in the microwave and add fresh hot bread and gravy when ready to serve
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use rotisserie chicken from the grocery store or leftover turkey after a holiday meal If you are out of fresh mashed potatoes instant potato flakes made with plenty of butter are a time-saving substitute Any savory gravy mix can be jazzed up with a splash of pan drippings or a spoonful of sour cream
Serving Suggestions
The classic side is something crisp to balance all that richness A fresh green salad with a sharp vinaigrette or simple steamed green beans really rounds out the plate Sometimes I tuck in a scoop of cranberry sauce or serve with roasted carrots for color
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Cultural Context
The Manhattan Hot Shot is a true comfort classic sometimes called an open-faced sandwich It is an old-school diner staple found all over the Midwest and Northeast The appeal comes from its simplicity and its clever use of leftovers nothing wasted everything tasty
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread is best for the sandwich?
Soft white or whole wheat bread holds the layers well, absorbing the hot gravy without falling apart.
- → Can I use different meats?
Absolutely. Choose between roast beef, turkey, or chicken based on preference or available leftovers.
- → How do I keep the gravy hot?
Heat the gravy to a simmer just before assembling and pour it immediately over the warm ingredients.
- → Are homemade mashed potatoes important?
Freshly made mashed potatoes enhance the texture and flavor, but store-bought can also be used in a pinch.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve alongside a green salad, steamed vegetables, or pickles to balance the richness of the sandwich.
- → Can this be prepared ahead?
Assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess. Prepare components in advance for quick assembly.