If you are craving a warm, hearty, and incredibly flavorful sandwich, look no further than this Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe. This dish brings together tender, juicy beef cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce that has just the right kick from spicy hot sauce. Layered on buttery toasted buns, every bite delivers a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party treat that will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of the ingredients is what makes this recipe so approachable and delicious. Each component plays a vital role: the beef delivers savory richness, the broth elevates the flavor, and the combination of butter, flour, and milk creates the smooth cheese sauce that makes these sandwiches irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you get cooking:
- 2 pounds boneless beef top round roast, thinly sliced: This cut is perfect for tender, juicy meat that cooks beautifully under pressure.
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth: Adds depth while keeping the saltiness balanced.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle, savory aroma that complements the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just a touch of heat and complexity.
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted: Their slight sweetness and crunch are the perfect vessel for the sandwich fillings.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Used to create a rich base for the cheese sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce into a velvety consistency.
- 2 cups milk: Makes the cheese sauce creamy and smooth.
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Adds a spicy tang that gives the cheese sauce a lively kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for the sauce): Balances flavor in the cheese sauce.
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it’s the star ingredient in the spicy cheese sauce.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Beef
Start by placing the thinly sliced beef into the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking pot, then add the beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This combination ensures your beef will soak up plenty of flavor as it cooks. Seal the Instant Pot with the lid and set it to cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes. When the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to keep the meat tender, then finish with a quick release before removing the lid carefully. This method guarantees beef that is juicy and full of savory goodness.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Cheese Sauce
While the beef is cooking, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly until the mixture bubbles and starts to develop a slightly nutty aroma — this is your roux, the key to that luscious cheese sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, adding a little at a time, to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth texture. Stir in the hot sauce and salt for that comforting spicy flavor. Finally, add the grated cheddar cheese in batches, stirring until the cheese has fully melted into a silky sauce ready to smother your beef.
Step 3: Toast the Buns and Assemble
Butter your onion hamburger buns and toast them until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. This toasting step adds great texture and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy. To build your Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe, spoon a generous amount of the juicy beef onto each bun and then ladle the creamy, spicy cheddar sauce over the top. Serve immediately while everything is warm and melty.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing these sandwiches is a fun way to add texture and extra flavor. Consider fresh chopped parsley or chives to bring a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce. Thin slices of pickles or a few rings of raw red onion add a pleasant crunch and contrast. If you enjoy a bit more heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for that exciting kick.
Side Dishes
Pair these sandwiches with classic sides like crispy French fries, onion rings, or a simple green salad for refreshing balance. Roasted vegetables or coleslaw also work beautifully, adding color and crunch. For a cozy meal, creamy tomato soup is a perfect companion that enhances the comforting vibe of the whole dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, build sliders with smaller buns and serve them on a wooden board alongside ramekins of extra cheese sauce for dipping. You can also layer these sandwiches with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for added depth of flavor. Wrapping them up in parchment paper makes a perfect grab-and-go meal that’s just as delicious on a picnic or casual get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover beef and cheese sauce can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep buns separate to maintain their texture and toast them fresh before serving to revive their crispness. This makes for quick and delicious sandwiches the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked beef and cheese sauce in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results. Avoid freezing the buns, as they tend to lose quality after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat the beef gently in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through. The cheese sauce is best reheated slowly on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture. Warm the buns separately in the oven or toaster before assembling your sandwiches.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While top round roast is ideal for thin slicing and tenderness, you can also use sirloin or chuck roast. Just slice the beef thinly for the best texture and ensure it cooks fully in the Instant Pot.
How spicy is the cheese sauce in this recipe?
The spicy cheese sauce has a gentle kick from the hot sauce that you can easily adjust. If you prefer more heat, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the amount or omit it entirely.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can slowly cook the beef on the stovetop or in a slow cooker until tender, although the Instant Pot significantly cuts down the cooking time while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
What type of cheddar cheese is best to use?
A sharp aged cheddar provides the most flavor and melts beautifully into the sauce. You can use mild or extra sharp depending on your preference, but avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents as they sometimes don’t melt as smoothly.
Can I add vegetables to this sandwich?
Definitely! Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even roasted bell peppers make fantastic additions and complement the beef and cheese sauce wonderfully, adding color and taste complexity.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe is truly a winner for anyone looking to treat themselves to a satisfying and flavorful meal with minimal fuss. With tender beef, luscious cheese sauce, and perfectly toasted buns, it’s a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the experience with friends and family—once you do, it will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
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Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (plus 10 minutes natural pressure release)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce recipe combines tender, pressure-cooked beef with a creamy, flavorful cheddar cheese sauce that has a spicy kick. Perfect for a hearty and comforting meal, these sandwiches are easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors, making them ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
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
Sandwiches
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the beef: In the Instant Pot pressure cooking pot, combine the thinly sliced beef, reduced-sodium beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Lock the lid securely in place to ensure proper pressure cooking.
- Pressure cook the beef: Select the High Pressure setting on the Instant Pot and set the cook time for 10 minutes. When the cooking time ends, turn off the pressure cooker and allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully performing a quick release. Once the valve drops, remove the lid carefully to avoid steam burns.
- Make the spicy cheddar cheese sauce: While the beef is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring frequently, until it begins bubbling to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk in small increments until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Stir in the hot sauce and salt, then add the grated cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat to prevent curdling.
- Prepare the buns and assemble sandwiches: Butter and toast the onion hamburger buns until golden brown. To serve, top each toasted bun with a generous portion of the tender cooked beef and ladle the creamy, spicy cheese sauce over the meat. Serve the sandwiches immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Thinly slicing the beef helps it cook quickly and become tender in the Instant Pot.
- Allowing the pressure to release naturally before quick releasing keeps the meat moist and tender.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the hot sauce.
- Using reduced-sodium beef broth helps control the saltiness of the dish.
- Butter and toasting the buns adds flavor and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
