Who says sundaes have to be sweet? Our hot beef sundae is a savory twist on the classic dessert, and trust us, it’s a comfort food masterpiece. This hearty dish layers tender shredded beef, creamy mashed potatoes, rich gravy, and a sprinkle of cheese, all topped with a cherry tomato for a playful nod to its namesake.
This recipe has roots in Midwestern fairs and festivals, where it’s a crowd favorite. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an irresistible option for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s a fun way to turn everyday ingredients into something unexpected and memorable.
Hot Beef Sundae Recipe
Creating a hot beef sundae is a fun and flavorful experience that blends savory goodness with imaginative presentation. Below, we walk you through the step-by-step process to build this comforting and visually delightful dish.
Ingredients
For the savory sundae layers, you’ll need the following:
- 1.5 lbs of beef roast (shredded and cooked tender)
- 1 cup beef broth or cooking liquid (from the roast)
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (smooth and creamy)
- 1 cup beef gravy (warm and thick)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (for garnish)
- 4 cherry tomatoes (one per serving)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional: Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Roast
- Cook the beef roast until it’s tender enough to shred. You can use a slow cooker (set on low for 8 hours) or an Instant Pot (pressure cook for 60 minutes).
- Use two forks to shred the beef finely, then return it to the cooking liquid to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Make the Mashed Potatoes
- In a large pot, boil peeled and diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 20 minutes).
- Drain the water and mash the potatoes with butter, a splash of milk, and a pinch of salt until silky smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the Rich Gravy
- Heat pre-prepared beef gravy or make a fresh one using drippings from the roast. Whisk in flour or cornstarch for the desired thickness if necessary. Warm on low heat.
- Assemble the Hot Beef Sundae
- In a serving dish or bowl, add a generous scoop of mashed potatoes as the base layer.
- Top with shredded beef, ensuring an even mound that mimics a sundae shape.
- Drizzle a hearty amount of warm beef gravy over the beef layer.
- Add the “Toppings”
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the gravy.
- Add a dollop of sour cream at the center.
- Garnish with a cherry tomato and optional chopped green onions or parsley for a finishing touch.
Portion Suggestions
| Serving Size | Ingredients Per Person |
|---|---|
| 1 bowl | 1 cup beef, 1 cup mashed potatoes, 1/4 cup gravy, topping garnishes |
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Hot Beef Sundae, we’ll need a combination of hearty, wholesome ingredients. Below, we’ve divided them into categories for ease and clarity.
For The Beef
- 2.5-3 lbs beef roast (chuck or rump, trimmed of excess fat)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For The Mashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and quartered)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional for extra depth)
For The Gravy
- 2 cups beef drippings or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon soy sauce (adds richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (regular or sharp)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Cherry tomatoes (as “cherry” garnish, 1 per serving)
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Tools And Equipment
To create our Hot Beef Sundae, we’ll need some essential tools and equipment to ensure the cooking process is smooth and efficient. Below is a handy list of the items you’ll want to have on hand. These tools will not only help you prepare and assemble the dish but also maintain a clean and organized kitchen.
Cooking Tools
- Slow Cooker: Perfect for cooking the beef roast low and slow until it’s tender and easy to shred.
- Potato Masher or Electric Mixer: Essential for achieving the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes.
- Medium Saucepan: For preparing the rich beef gravy with ease and precision.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Whisk: Helps effectively stir and combine ingredients for the gravy without damaging your cookware.
Preparation Tools
- Sharp Knife: A quality knife ensures precise cutting of ingredients like cherry tomatoes and optional parsley garnish.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy board for safe and efficient chopping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of broth, seasonings, and other ingredients.
Assembly and Serving Tools
- Large Serving Bowls or Cups: To give that sundae-style presentation.
- Ice Cream Scoop: Helps to shape mashed potatoes into a scoop-like form for authentic visual appeal.
- Tongs or Forks: Ideal for shredding the beef evenly before layering.
- Grater: To freshly shred cheddar cheese for topping the dish.
Cleanup Tools
- Non-Stick Spray or Parchment Paper: Useful to prevent sticking in cookware or serving dishes.
- Dish Towels or Rags: To clean up spills and maintain a tidy workspace.
| Tool Type | Specific Tools |
|---|---|
| Cooking Tools | Slow Cooker, Potato Masher, Medium Saucepan |
| Preparation Tools | Sharp Knife, Cutting Board, Measuring Tools |
| Assembly Tools | Serving Bowls, Ice Cream Scoop, Tongs |
| Cleanup Tools | Non-Stick Spray, Dish Towels |
Having all these key tools ready allows us to focus on bringing out the flavors and perfecting the presentation of our Hot Beef Sundae. Make sure to gather everything beforehand for a seamless cooking experience.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft the perfect Hot Beef Sundae, a savory masterpiece perfect for any gathering.
Prep The Beef
- Place a 2.5-3 lbs beef roast into a slow cooker.
- Add 2 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or until the beef is so tender it easily shreds with a fork.
- Once done, remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred the beef using two forks. Set it aside and reserve the cooking liquid for making the gravy.
Prepare The Mashed Potatoes
- Peel and cut 2 pounds of russet potatoes into even chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons butter, ½ cup warm milk, and 1 teaspoon salt (and white pepper if using).
- Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Make The Gravy
- In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually add in 2 cups of reserved beef drippings or beef broth, whisking continually to avoid lumps.
- Add 1 teaspoon soy sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Simmer the gravy while stirring for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Assemble The Hot Beef Sundae
- Begin by spooning a generous amount of mashed potatoes into a bowl.
- Add a layer of shredded beef over the mashed potatoes.
- Drizzle the rich gravy over the layers for a saucy finish.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and add a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Garnish with a cherry tomato and optional parsley sprig for a whimsical “sundae” look.
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Roast | 2.5-3 lbs | Cooked, shredded |
| Russet Potatoes | 2 lbs | Mashed, creamy |
| Beef Broth | 2 cups + 2 cups | For slow cooker + gravy |
| Butter | 7 tablespoons | 4 for potatoes, 3 for gravy |
| Flour | 3 tablespoons | For gravy thickening |
| Milk | ½ cup | Warm, for mashed potatoes |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tablespoon | For enhanced beef flavor |
| Shredded Cheddar | ½ cup or as needed | Topping |
| Sour Cream | 1 dollop | Topping |
| Cherry Tomato | 1 per serving | Garnish |
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing a hot beef sundae in advance is an excellent way to save time and ease the cooking process. Here’s how we can break it into manageable steps to ensure the flavors remain fresh and bold while streamlining the ultimate assembly:
1. Preparing the Beef Ahead of Time
- Cook the beef roast in the slow cooker as instructed (8-10 hours on low with broth and seasonings).
- Once fully cooked and tender, shred the beef and allow it to cool completely.
- Transfer the shredded beef and its juices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to use, reheat in a saucepan with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist, or warm it in the slow cooker on low.
2. Making Mashed Potatoes in Advance
- Prepare the creamy mashed potatoes following the recipe, ensuring they are well-seasoned.
- Let the mashed potatoes cool to room temperature, then place them in a microwave-safe or oven-safe dish.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the microwave in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between heating cycles, or in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or butter while reheating to maintain their creamy texture.
3. Gravy Storage and Reheating Tips
- Prepare the gravy using your chosen beef drippings or broth. Allow it to cool completely.
- Pour the gravy into a sealable container or jar and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat over low heat on the stovetop, whisking constantly to restore its smooth consistency. Add a bit of broth or water while reheating if the gravy thickens excessively.
4. Prepping the Toppings in Advance
- Grate the cheddar cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes; keep them whole until assembly.
- If using parsley for garnish, chop it finely, then store it in a small container lined with a damp paper towel to keep it fresh.
5. Assembly Scheduling
For the best results, we recommend prepping in stages. Use this table to organize your make-ahead steps and day-of assembly:
| Component | Prep Timeline | Storage Method | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shredded Beef | Up to 3 days ahead | Airtight container; refrigerated | Warm with broth on low heat or in slow cooker |
| Mashed Potatoes | Up to 2 days ahead | Microwavable dish; refrigerated | Reheat with butter/milk in microwave or oven |
| Gravy | Up to 3 days ahead | Airtight jar/container; refrigerated | Whisk over stovetop on low heat |
| Cheese & Garnishes | 1 day ahead | Airtight container; refrigerated | No reheating needed |
By handling the bulk of the prep ahead of time, we can focus on building and presenting our hot beef sundaes with ease and efficiency.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Hot Beef Sundae, presentation is everything. This playful dish thrives on its visual appeal and hearty flavor profile. Here are some serving ideas and tips to elevate the experience:
Ideal Presentation
- Individual Bowls or Cups: Serve the hot beef sundaes in small, wide bowls or cups for eye-catching layers. Use clear glassware for a visible display of the mashed potatoes, shredded beef, gravy, and toppings.
- Cherry Tomato “Cherry”: Place a vibrant cherry tomato on top to mimic the sundae cherry and add a touch of whimsy.
- Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top or add a dash of smoked paprika for a vivid color contrast.
Accompaniments
Pair this savory treat with simple yet complementary sides to round out the meal. Here are some pairing ideas:
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich and creamy elements of the sundae.
- Warm Dinner Rolls: Fluffy rolls or crusty bread work perfectly for soaking up any leftover gravy.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with lightly buttered green beans, carrots, or asparagus for added nutritional variety.
Portion Control
This dish is hearty and satisfying, so we recommend the following portion sizes for different types of occasions:
| Serving Occasion | Recommended Portion |
|---|---|
| Casual Family Dinner | 1 medium-sized bowl per person (approx. 1 cup each layer) |
| Appetizer for a Gathering | Small cups/jars with half portions |
| Sharing Platters | Large bowl for communal dining; allow guests to serve themselves |
Occasion-Specific Ideas
- For Weeknight Dinners: Plate it simply and serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a quick, balanced meal.
- At Celebrations: Use decorative bowls and top each sundae with a drizzle of extra gravy for added indulgence.
- For Potlucks or Festivals: Prepare the ingredients in advance and set up a sundae “bar” where guests can assemble their own hot beef sundae creation.
Let’s celebrate the beauty of this comfort-food classic by serving it in a way that’s both fun and appealing while adapting to different dining scenarios.
Conclusion
The hot beef sundae is more than just a meal—it’s a creative twist on comfort food that brings joy to any table. With its hearty layers and playful presentation, it’s sure to impress both family and friends. By combining simple ingredients with a touch of imagination, we can transform everyday staples into something truly special.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe offers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and fun. Let’s embrace the charm of this savory sundae and make it a memorable part of our mealtime traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hot beef sundae?
A hot beef sundae is a savory twist on the classic dessert, featuring layers of shredded beef, creamy mashed potatoes, rich gravy, and cheese, topped with a cherry tomato. It’s a comforting and visually appealing dish that originated in Midwestern fairs and festivals.
What ingredients are needed to make a hot beef sundae?
Key ingredients include a beef roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, shredded cheddar cheese, and a cherry tomato. Optional toppings like parsley or sour cream can enhance flavor and presentation. The article provides a detailed list categorized for each component.
Can I prepare the components of a hot beef sundae ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef, mashed potatoes, and gravy in advance. Store each component in airtight containers in the fridge and reheat them before assembling the sundae. This makes it easy to serve when needed.
What tools do I need to make a hot beef sundae?
Essential tools include a slow cooker for the beef, a potato masher for the mashed potatoes, and serving bowls for presentation. Other helpful tools include knives, cutting boards, and measuring cups for accurate preparation.
Can I customize the hot beef sundae recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different toppings, such as smoked paprika or green onions, or use alternative cheeses. Adjust the seasoning for the beef, mashed potatoes, or gravy to suit your taste preferences.
How do I assemble a hot beef sundae?
Start by layering mashed potatoes at the base, followed by shredded beef, a generous drizzle of gravy, and shredded cheese. Top it off with a cherry tomato and garnish with parsley or your choice of toppings.
What are some serving suggestions for a hot beef sundae?
Serve the dish in individual bowls or cups for better presentation. Pair it with sides like fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or dinner rolls. It’s a great fit for family dinners, gatherings, or even events like game nights.
How many people does the hot beef sundae recipe serve?
The recipe outlined in the article serves approximately 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. You can easily scale the ingredients up or down based on your needs.
Can I make the hot beef sundae healthier?
Yes, you can use leaner cuts of beef, opt for low-fat cheese or sour cream, and replace butter in the mashed potatoes with olive oil. You can also serve smaller portions alongside fresh vegetables for a balanced meal.
What occasions are best for serving a hot beef sundae?
A hot beef sundae is perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. Its playful presentation also makes it an excellent choice for themed events like festivals or fairs, adding a touch of fun to your menu.