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Ready in no time, this Manhattan Hot Shot Sandwich is ultimate cozy food you can throw together fast. With your pick of turkey, chicken, or roast beef, everything tastes incredible once you load it on some pillowy bread, pile on creamy mash, and finish with a big pour of savory gravy. My crew loves this speedy comfort meal whenever we want something special for lunch, especially on Sundays.
I got hooked on this dish after my first Midwest diner visit. My husband now begs for it every time winter weather rolls in. The gravy and mashed potatoes are pure old-school comfort. Can’t beat that combo when you want something warm and satisfying.
Delicious Ingredients
- Fresh soft wheat or white bread: Use something tender to soak up gravy and keep the sandwich sturdy enough to hold everything. Try a hearty homemade loaf or stick with sandwich bread if that’s what you’ve got.
- Steaming hot mashed potatoes: Fluffy, buttery mash makes this meal so cozy. Get them smooth and seasoned well for best results — store-bought or homemade both work just fine.
- Your choice of roast chicken, roast turkey, or roast beef: Pick whichever you’re craving or have leftovers of. Deli slices make this easy, and it’s a good way to use up cooked meat from earlier in the week.
- Piping hot gravy: Savory gravy brings all the flavors together. Warm it well before serving and make sure to match the taste with whatever meat you’re using.
Easy How-To
- Serve It Up:
- Right before you eat, serve your hot sandwich alongside hot veggies or a crisp green salad for a balanced plate.
- Ladle on Gravy:
- Generously cover everything with the rest of your hot gravy, letting it cascade down the pile and soak in.
- Add Sliced Meat:
- Lay warm strips of your favorite cooked meat across the top so each bite is hearty and filling.
- Gravy Goes First:
- Splash a little bit of gravy on the mashed potatoes so the bread can start soaking up extra flavor underneath.
- Creamy Potatoes:
- Spoon hot mashed potatoes right across the bread, spreading it edge to edge for full coverage.
- Start With Bread:
- Put a thick slice of soft bread in the middle of a plate. Make sure it’s fresh so it can take on the toppings without falling apart.
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Honestly, for me the gravy is the best part. I used to swipe my plate clean as a kid, trying not to miss a single drop. Hot fresh gravy really makes everything come together and brings back memories of family get-togethers after church.
Storing Leftovers
Keep each item separate in airtight containers if you’ve got extras. The bread gets soggy if left together for too long. Pop the meat and potatoes in the microwave to reheat, then grab some fresh bread and hot gravy right before you eat.
Swap Options
Store-bought rotisserie chicken works great in a pinch. Got leftover turkey from a holiday? Use it! Out of time for real mashed potatoes? Instant mash with extra butter does fine. Mix things up by stirring some pan drippings or a dollop of sour cream into any store gravy mix for more flavor.
How to Serve
Something zesty and green cuts the richness — go for a crunchy salad with vinaigrette or keep it simple with some green beans. Some days, we push the comfort a little more with a bright scoop of cranberry sauce or rustic roasted carrots.
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Background Info
This open-faced Manhattan Hot Shot is a nostalgic classic you’ll see in Northeast and Midwest diners. It’s plain but genius — you use up leftovers but still get something that tastes like a treat. Old-school comfort all the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What bread works best here?
Go for a soft wheat or white loaf. It soaks up the gravy and holds together instead of turning to mush.
- → Could I pick a different meat?
For sure! Try leftover chicken, roast beef, or turkey—go with what you like or have around.
- → How do I keep gravy nice and warm?
Bring your gravy to just below boiling right before you pour it so it’s piping hot for every bite.
- → Is it better to make mashed potatoes from scratch?
Homemade gives the best fork-feel and flavor, but store-bought will work when you’re trying to save time.
- → What should I serve with it?
A crisp salad, steamed veg, or even some pickles cut the richness perfectly.
- → Can I prep it ahead of time?
Put it together right before eating to keep things from getting soggy, but you can make all the parts early for a fast assembly.