Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Savory Roast Beef Manhattan Sandwich?
It is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender roast beef, mashed potatoes, and gravy served on a toasted hoagie roll.
What kind of roast beef should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 lbs of sliced deli roast beef for convenience and tenderness.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 6 servings.
How do I prepare the caramelized onions?
Cook sliced onions in butter with brown sugar and cider vinegar for 15-20 minutes until dark brown.
What type of cheese is best for these sandwiches?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for its excellent melting properties and sharp flavor.
Can I use homemade mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use your favorite homemade recipe or store-bought prepared mashed potatoes.
How much gravy is needed for this recipe?
You will need 4 cups of prepared beef gravy.
What is the best way to heat the roast beef?
Heat the beef and gravy together in a medium saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I use a different type of bread?
While hoagie rolls are standard, you can use thick-sliced sourdough or brioche buns if preferred.
How long should I broil the sandwiches?
Broil for about 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, watching closely to prevent burning.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free hoagie rolls and ensure your beef gravy and deli meat are certified gluten-free.
Is the cider vinegar necessary for the onions?
The vinegar adds a necessary acidity to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar during caramelization.
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
You can, but brown sugar provides a deeper, more molasses-like flavor to the onions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the meat, gravy, and potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I assemble these in advance?
It is best to assemble and broil them just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
What are some recommended side dishes?
A light green salad, steamed vegetables, or coleslaw pair well with this hearty sandwich.
Can I use sliced cheese instead of shredded?
Yes, sliced cheddar or provolone can be used in place of shredded cheese.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat the meat and gravy on the stove and the potatoes in the microwave before assembling a fresh sandwich.
Can I use leftover pot roast?
Absolutely, leftover pot roast is a delicious alternative to deli roast beef.
What makes this a Manhattan sandwich?
The term 'Manhattan' in this context typically refers to an open-faced meat sandwich served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, its mild savory flavors and soft textures make it a popular choice for children.
Can I add other toppings?
Sautรฉed mushrooms or bell peppers make excellent additions to the caramelized onion layer.
How do I keep the bread from getting too soft?
Toasting the rolls slightly before assembly or broiling them quickly helps maintain the bread's structure.
What if I don't have cider vinegar?
You can substitute it with balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar.
Can I use frozen mashed potatoes?
Yes, as long as they are thawed and heated according to package directions before assembly.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
You can simmer it longer to reduce it or whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry.
Can I use a different type of gravy?
While beef gravy is traditional, mushroom gravy is a tasty alternative.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is very easy to double the ingredients for larger gatherings or family dinners.
Can I skip the caramelizing process for the onions?
You can, but the caramelized onions provide a significant depth of flavor to the sandwich.
What is the total preparation time?
It takes about 15-20 minutes for the onions and roughly 5-10 minutes for assembly and broiling.