Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving something that’s utterly comforting but with a little kick that keeps things exciting, look no further than this Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender, slow-cooked beef and a luscious, spicy cheddar sauce all piled high on buttery toasted buns. The magic of the Instant Pot means you get melt-in-your-mouth beef without hours of waiting, and the spicy cheese sauce adds that dreamy, creamy texture and just the right amount of heat that makes every bite irresistible. This dish is a total game-changer for sandwich lovers searching for a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal that everyone will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe shine. The beef provides the hearty base, the cheddar cheese melts into an irresistibly rich sauce, and a touch of hot sauce brings that subtle zing we crave.
- 2 pounds boneless beef top round roast, thinly sliced: This lean cut becomes tender and juicy in the Instant Pot, perfect for piling high on buns.
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth: Adds savory depth without overpowering the beef’s natural flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A simple seasoning that enhances the beef’s richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and brings out all the flavors in the meat and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and aromatic note.
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted: The perfect soft, flavorful vessel for the beef and cheese.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Creates the base of the cheese sauce and adds creaminess.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the cheese sauce just right.
- 2 cups milk: Gives the spicy cheese sauce a smooth, luscious texture.
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Brings a lively kick that wakes up the cheese sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sauce’s flavors perfectly.
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese: The star ingredient of the sauce—sharp, melty, and downright dreamy.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by combining the thinly sliced beef top round, reduced-sodium beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper inside your Instant Pot. This step ensures the beef is evenly seasoned and starts soaking up those lovely savory notes that will make each bite unforgettable.
Step 2: Pressure Cook the Beef
Lock the lid securely on your Instant Pot and select the High Pressure setting. Set the cooking time to 10 minutes. Once the timer goes off, turn off the pressure cooker and let it naturally release pressure for 10 minutes to keep the beef tender and juicy. When it’s safe, carefully perform a quick release to open the lid. This method makes the beef incredibly soft and ready to savor!
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
While the beef works its magic, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour in and stir continuously until it begins to bubble. Slowly whisk in the milk, adding it in small increments until the sauce is smooth and thickened to perfection. Don’t forget that tablespoon of hot sauce and salt—these add the zing that makes this cheese sauce truly stand out. Finally, fold in the grated cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until your sauce is creamy, smooth, and worthy of spooning generously.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Butter and toast the onion hamburger buns until they’re golden and fragrant—that toasty crunch is essential. Layer each bun with a hearty amount of the tender Instant Pot beef and ladle over the spicy cheese sauce. Serve these sandwiches immediately to enjoy the perfect melty, spicy, beefy goodness they deliver.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your sandwiches, try adding pickled jalapeños for an extra burst of heat or fresh chopped parsley for a bright, herbaceous contrast. A few thin slices of red onion or a handful of crispy fried onions can also add a delightful crunchy texture that complements the tender beef and creamy sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides that won’t compete with the intensity of the beef and cheese. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, baked sweet potato fries, or even some crunchy coleslaw to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables with a touch of garlic also make for an easy, flavorful side.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by turning these sandwiches into sliders for a party or game day. You can also serve the beef and spicy cheese sauce over toasted baguette slices as open-faced sandwiches or invite guests to customize their own by offering extra toppings like sautéed mushrooms or a drizzle of extra hot sauce for those who love bold flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the beef and cheese sauce separate from the buns if possible to prevent sogginess and preserve texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked beef and cheese sauce in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results. It’s a fantastic way to have this delicious meal ready for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat the beef and cheese sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Toast fresh buns to restore their original crunchiness and assemble your sandwiches just before serving to enjoy every bit of the fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While top round roast is perfect for tender slices, you can also use sirloin or chuck roast thinly sliced. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut.
How spicy is the cheese sauce?
The cheese sauce has a gentle kick from the hot sauce, but it’s not overpowering. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce according to your taste.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can slow-cook the beef on the stovetop or in a slow cooker until tender, but the Instant Pot dramatically cuts down on cooking time and locks in juices beautifully.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar adds the best depth of flavor, but feel free to mix in mild cheddar or even a little smoked cheddar for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Definitely! The beef and spicy cheese sauce freeze well separately. This makes it easy to enjoy leftovers on your schedule without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about the combination of tender Instant Pot beef and the rich, spicy cheddar cheese sauce in this Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe. It’s comfort food elevated to a delicious new level—quick to make, easy to love, and perfect for sharing. Trust me, once you try it, this will become one of your go-to recipes whenever you want a meal that feels like a warm, tasty hug.
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Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches recipe combines tender, pressure-cooked beef with a creamy, spicy cheddar cheese sauce, all served on buttery toasted onion buns. Perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal, it offers rich flavors and comforting textures in just 25 minutes.
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
Buns:
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted
Spicy 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: Place the thinly sliced beef, reduced-sodium beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper into the Instant Pot pressure cooking pot. Secure the lid tightly to prepare for pressure cooking.
- Pressure Cook the Beef: Select the High Pressure setting and set the cook time for 10 minutes. After cooking, turn off the pressure cooker and allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Follow with a quick release to let out any remaining pressure, then carefully remove the lid.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: While the beef is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for a few minutes until it starts bubbling, stirring often to avoid lumps. Gradually whisk in the milk in small portions, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Stir in the hot sauce and salt. Add the grated cheddar cheese gradually, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is creamy. Remove from heat.
- Assemble and Serve: Butter and toast the onion hamburger buns until golden. For each sandwich, pile a generous portion of the cooked beef on the toasted buns and ladle the creamy spicy cheese sauce over the top. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Thinly slicing the beef makes it tender and easy to eat in sandwiches.
- Natural pressure release helps retain the juiciness of the beef.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the cheese sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Butter the buns before toasting for a crisp golden finish and added flavor.
- Leftover beef and cheese sauce can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
