If you’re craving something incredibly comforting, savory, and downright irresistible, this Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture tender, flavorful beef cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot, topped with creamy, cheesy sauce, all piled high on toasted buns. It’s quick, effortless, and guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Speedy: The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, cooking tender beef in just 10 minutes of pressure time.
- Decadently Cheesy: The rich cheddar cheese sauce is velvety smooth and perfectly spiced, elevating the sandwich to comfort food heaven.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together effortlessly without complicated prep or hard-to-find items.
- Customizable: Easily adapt toppings, buns, or spice levels to suit your unique cravings and dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses straightforward ingredients that bring unbeatable flavor and texture to your mouthwatering sandwiches. Each component plays a crucial role—from the tender beef to the ultra-creamy cheese sauce and the buttery toasted buns that hold it all together.
- Boneless beef top round roast (thinly sliced): This lean cut becomes tender and juicy when pressure-cooked perfectly in the Instant Pot.
- Reduced-sodium beef broth: Adds depth and richness without overpowering the natural beef flavor.
- Garlic powder, salt, and pepper: Simple seasonings that make the beef pop with savory goodness.
- Onion hamburger buns (buttered and toasted): Their slight sweetness balances the savory beef and cheese while toasting adds delightful crunch.
- Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour: The base of the luscious cheddar cheese sauce.
- Milk: Gradually whisked in to create a perfectly smooth sauce texture.
- Hot sauce: Just enough kick to bring the cheese sauce to life without overpowering it.
- Grated cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that makes the sauce irresistibly gooey and flavorful.
Variations
One of the best parts about the Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative or tweak the flavors to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you want to make it spicier, milder, or suited for different diets, this recipe is a fantastic canvas.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce directly to the beef before cooking for a bolder flavor punch.
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, smoked gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a unique twist on the cheese sauce.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Buns: Easily swap out the buns to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions to the beef mixture for an extra layer of savory goodness.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Pressure Cook the Beef
Start by combining the thinly sliced beef, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper directly in your Instant Pot’s pressure cooking pot. Secure the lid, select the High Pressure setting, and set the timer for just 10 minutes. This quick cooking method tenderizes the beef without drying it out, leaving every bite juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Release Pressure and Prepare Cheese Sauce
Once the cooking cycle ends, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes—this gentle release keeps the meat tender—then use the quick release for any remaining pressure. Remove the lid carefully. Meanwhile, start your cheese sauce on the stovetop by melting butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until bubbly, then slowly add milk bit by bit, stirring until thickened into a smooth sauce.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Spice to the Sauce
Mix in the hot sauce and salt to your sauce base for that subtle heat and seasoning, then gradually add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is velvety and smooth. This luscious cheese sauce is what takes these sandwiches from delicious to downright addictive.
Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Butter and toast your onion hamburger buns until golden and crisp—this adds a great textural contrast. Pile on the perfectly cooked beef, then generously ladle the steaming cheddar cheese sauce over the top. Serve immediately and prepare to indulge in cheesy, meaty bliss.
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe
- Slice Beef Thinly: Thinly slicing the beef before cooking ensures it becomes tender quickly and absorbs the broth’s flavor perfectly.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally first keeps the beef moist and tender rather than tough and dry.
- Add Cheese Gradually: Adding the cheese a handful at a time ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce with the perfect consistency.
- Butter and Toast Buns: Don’t skip this step; toasted buns keep your sandwich from getting soggy and add delightful crunch.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like pickle slices, thinly sliced red onions, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley add brightness and contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors. A little fresh cracked black pepper on top can also enhance the overall taste.
Side Dishes
Pair these hearty sandwiches with classic sides like crispy french fries, a crunchy coleslaw, or even a fresh green salad to balance out the lavishness of the beef and cheddar. A cup of tomato soup could also make a nostalgic and comforting addition.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the beef and cheese open-faced on rustic bread for a casual feel, or stack them as sliders for a fun party appetizer. Wrapping sandwiches in parchment paper adds a charming touch and keeps things neat and easy to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover beef mixture and cheese sauce stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to quickly reheat and enjoy without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, the beef mixture freezes beautifully. Store it separately from the cheese sauce and buns in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the beef gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to keep it juicy. Warm the cheese sauce slowly over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, then assemble sandwiches fresh to maintain their delicious texture.
FAQs
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Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While top round roast works wonderfully due to its leanness and texture, you can substitute with chuck roast or brisket for a richer, more marbled flavor. Just keep slices thin for faster cooking.
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Is it possible to make the cheese sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free butter substitute and almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. Swap cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative that melts well to keep the sauce creamy.
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How spicy is this recipe with the hot sauce?
The hot sauce adds a gentle warmth enhancing the flavors without overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference, or omit it entirely for a milder version.
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Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
Yes! The beef and cheese sauce can be made a day in advance and reheated gently before serving. Toast buns just before assembling to keep them crisp and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about digging into warm, cheesy, tender beef sandwiches, and this Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe delivers exactly that with so little fuss. Whether it’s a family dinner, game day snack, or casual weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. Give it a try and enjoy every melty, savory bite!
PrintInstant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe
This Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar recipe features tender, thinly sliced beef top round roast cooked to perfection in a rich beef broth and seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper. Served on toasted hamburger buns and topped with a creamy, spicy cheddar cheese sauce, it’s a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a quick dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Beef
- 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
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted
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
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: In the pressure cooking pot of your Instant Pot, combine the thinly sliced beef, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Lock the lid in place to ensure a proper seal.
- Pressure cook the beef: Select the High Pressure setting and set the cooking time to 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes to keep the beef tender, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid when the valve drops.
- Make the cheese sauce: While the beef cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously until the mixture bubbles and turns golden, forming a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk a little at a time until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Stir in hot sauce and salt for flavor. Add the grated cheddar cheese in batches, stirring until melted and smooth. Remove from heat once fully combined.
- Toast the buns: Butter the onion hamburger buns and toast them until golden and crisp, either in a skillet or toaster.
- Assemble and serve: Place the cooked beef generously on each toasted bun, then ladle the warm cheddar cheese sauce over the top. Serve immediately for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- For best results, slice the beef thinly across the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Reduced-sodium beef broth is used to control the saltiness; adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Use your favorite brand of hot sauce to customize the heat level in the cheese sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker cheese sauce, simmer it a little longer after adding the cheese, stirring constantly.
- To save time, you can prepare the cheese sauce while the beef is pressure cooking.