If you’re craving a sandwich packed with bold flavors and irresistible comfort, the Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Picture tender slices of beef cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot, layered on toasted buns, and drenched in a luscious, spicy cheddar cheese sauce that delivers warmth and a little kick. This recipe combines simple ingredients and quick cooking techniques to bring you a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and vibrant color of the dish. From the savory beef to the golden cheese sauce, every component adds something special.
- 2 pounds boneless beef top round roast, thinly sliced: This lean cut becomes tender and juicy with pressure cooking, perfect for sandwiches.
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth: Adds richness and moisture without overpowering the beef’s natural flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts savory notes and complements the beef perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and depth.
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted: Their slight sweetness and crunch create the ideal vessel for all that goodness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Forms the base of the silky cheese sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce into a creamy dream.
- 2 cups milk: Makes the cheese sauce smooth and rich without being too heavy.
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Gives the cheese sauce a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the cheese sauce perfectly.
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that sharp, melty cheese flavor everyone loves.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef in the Instant Pot
Start by layering the thinly sliced beef directly into your Instant Pot, then pour in the reduced-sodium beef broth to keep the meat moist and flavorful as it cooks. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper on top to season. Secure the lid tightly to lock in all those delicious juices and flavors.
Step 2: Pressure Cook the Beef
Select the High Pressure setting on your Instant Pot and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to ensure the beef remains tender and juicy. Then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid. The beef should be perfectly cooked and ready for your sandwiches.
Step 3: Whip Up the Spicy Cheese Sauce
While your beef is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook until you see it bubbling and it starts to smell nutty, which means it’s ready. Gradually whisk in the milk in small amounts, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once smooth and thickened, add the hot sauce and salt for that spicy, flavorful punch. Incorporate the grated cheddar cheese slowly, stirring constantly until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that’s impossible to resist.
Step 4: Toast Buns and Assemble
Butter your onion hamburger buns lightly, then toast them until they reach a golden crunch. This adds a wonderful contrast to the tender beef and creamy cheese sauce. Pile on a generous portion of the cooked beef onto each bun and generously ladle the spicy cheese sauce on top. Serve these beauties immediately while everything is warm and melty!
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes elevates the sandwich experience. Try crisp pickles or sliced jalapeños to add a tangy or extra spicy contrast. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives can lend a burst of color and fresh flavor that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like crispy French fries or a simple green salad pair beautifully with these sandwiches. For a cozy meal, serve with a warm bowl of tomato soup or steamed broccoli for added veggies and color. The possibilities are endless and delicious.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your sandwich into party-friendly sliders by cutting the buns into smaller portions, perfect for sharing. Or layer the beef and cheese sauce over toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer twist. You can even serve the beef and cheese sauce as a dip with toasted bread or crackers at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover beef and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain the bun’s texture when you reassemble your sandwich.
Freezing
Freeze the cooked beef and cheese sauce in sealed containers for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stove to preserve the creamy texture of the cheese sauce and tenderness of the beef.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the cheese sauce smooth. Toast fresh buns just before assembling the reheated beef and sauce for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless top round roast is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can also try sirloin or chuck roast, just keep in mind cooking times might vary slightly.
Is the spicy cheese sauce very hot?
The heat level is moderate thanks to just one tablespoon of hot sauce, which adds a lovely kick without overpowering the cheddar flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Can this recipe be made without an Instant Pot?
You can slow cook the beef in a slow cooker, but it will take longer—about 6 to 8 hours on low. The beef broth and seasonings will still infuse the meat with flavor beautifully.
What type of cheddar cheese is best?
A sharp or extra sharp cheddar works great to provide a robust cheesy flavor that stands up well against the spicy sauce and savory beef.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Certainly! While onion buns add a nice sweetness, you can substitute with hoagie rolls, ciabatta, or any sturdy bread you prefer that can hold up to the sauce and meat.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves hearty, cheesy sandwiches with a bit of a spicy kick. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience just how delicious and satisfying these sandwiches can be!
Print
Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and hearty Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches featuring tender sliced top round roast cooked to perfection with a spicy, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. This quick and easy recipe combines the rich flavors of slow-pressure cooked beef with a smooth, zesty cheese sauce served on toasted onion hamburger buns for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless beef top round roast, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
Sandwich Assembly
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the beef in the Instant Pot: Place the thinly sliced beef, reduced-sodium beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper into the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking pot. Secure the lid tightly to ensure a proper seal.
- Pressure cook the beef: Select the High Pressure setting on the Instant Pot and set the cooking time for 10 minutes. After cooking, turn off the Instant Pot and allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Remove the lid once the valve drops.
- Make the spicy cheddar cheese sauce: While the beef cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the melted butter and stir continuously until it begins to bubble, forming a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk in small increments, continuing to whisk until a smooth, thickened sauce forms. Stir in the hot sauce and salt, then slowly add the grated cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the buns and assemble sandwiches: Butter and toast the onion hamburger buns until golden. To serve, layer a generous portion of the cooked beef onto each toasted bun, then ladle the creamy spicy cheese sauce over the beef. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using reduced-sodium beef broth helps control the saltiness of the dish.
- Thinly slicing the beef top round roast helps it cook quickly and become tender in the Instant Pot.
- You can adjust the amount of hot sauce in the cheese sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Butter the buns before toasting for extra flavor and a crispy texture.
- Leftover beef and cheese sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
