Liverpool had the better of the first half but some resolute defending from Middlesbrough restricted the Reds to a few half chances. A Momo Sissoko shot that went narrowly wide was the best chance of the opening 45 minutes.
Things improved after the break with Javier Mascherano heading against the crossbar after 50 minutes and Bolo Zenden firing over after getting into the box moments later.
The deadlock was broken after 58 minutes when the Liverpool captain fired home one of his trademark 30 yard shots that gave Mark Schwarzer no chance.
Gerrard wrapped the game up seven minutes later when he scored from the penalty spot after Peter Crouch had been fouled in the area.