If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to the Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe. This dish takes tender, perfectly cooked beef and pairs it with a rich, creamy cheddar sauce that has just the right kick of heat. It’s the kind of sandwich that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want to impress without the fuss. The Instant Pot makes the beef incredibly tender and quick to prepare, while the spicy cheese sauce brings a luscious, velvety finish that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that harmonize beautifully, balancing flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the savory beef providing substance, the cheddar cheese adding creamy richness, or the buttered buns offering a perfect toasty base.
- 2 pounds boneless beef top round roast, thinly sliced: This cut becomes tender and juicy in the Instant Pot, perfect for shredding or piling onto sandwiches.
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium beef broth: Adds depth and moisture to the beef while keeping sodium in check.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle, aromatic hint that complements the beef’s natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the beef and bringing out its savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild punch and warmth to the meat.
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted: Their sweet onion flavor and crunch perfectly contrast the rich beef and cheese.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: For making the velvety cheese sauce base and adding richness.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce to a luscious consistency.
- 2 cups milk: Creates a creamy sauce with a smooth texture; whole milk works best.
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Brings a spicy kick to the cheese sauce, elevating the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors in the cheese sauce.
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese: The star of the sauce, providing that unmistakable sharp, creamy bite.
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 tossing the thinly sliced beef into your Instant Pot along with the reduced-sodium beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning ensures the beef is flavorful but not overwhelming. Lock the lid on firmly, then set your Instant Pot to High Pressure for 10 minutes. Once the time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to keep the beef tender and juicy. Finish with a quick release and carefully open the lid—your beef should be melt-in-your-mouth soft and perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Cheese Sauce
While your beef is cooking, it’s time to start the sauce. Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. As the butter begins to bubble, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to create a roux that will thicken your sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk in small increments, which helps avoid lumps and builds a smooth, creamy texture. Add the hot sauce and salt next—this is where the spicy kick comes alive, balancing the richness. Finally, stir in the grated cheddar cheese a handful at a time until it melts completely and the sauce is silky and luscious.
Step 3: Toast and Assemble
Butter your onion hamburger buns for extra richness and toast them until golden and crisp. This adds a delicious crunch and a hint of sweetness from the onions, which perfectly counters the savory beef and spicy cheese. Load each bun generously with the tender beef then ladle a thick layer of the creamy cheese sauce over the top for ultimate indulgence.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions on top to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness. If you like extra heat, a few thinly sliced jalapeños or a drizzle more of your favorite hot sauce are wonderful options that complement the spicy cheese sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing side salads or crunchy pickles to balance the creamy, rich sandwich filling. Roasted vegetables or classic french fries offer a comforting and hearty accompaniment, while a simple coleslaw adds a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm, spicy cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these sandwiches open-faced on a lined baking sheet and broil them briefly to get a bubbly, golden cheese crust on top. Alternatively, cut the sandwiches into smaller sliders for parties or casual get-togethers, making it easier for guests to enjoy bite-sized portions without missing any of the spicy cheese goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe, wrap the sandwiches tightly with plastic wrap or store the components separately in airtight containers. The beef and cheese sauce will keep well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, making it an easy meal to enjoy later without loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
While the sandwich assembly is best fresh for texture, you can freeze the cooked beef and cheese sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave to preserve all the comforting flavors and creamy textures.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the beef and cheese sauce low and slow on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Toast fresh buns or re-toast your buttered buns to restore that irresistible crunch. Assemble just before serving to keep every bite tasting freshly made and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While top round roast works beautifully for this recipe due to its tenderness when thinly sliced and pressure cooked, you can also use sirloin or chuck roast if you prefer a fattier, more flavorful cut. Just adjust the cooking time if needed for thickness.
Is the spicy cheese sauce very hot?
The hot sauce adds a pleasant mild heat that enhances the cheese sauce without overwhelming it. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce depending on your palate, or choose a milder hot sauce variety.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can! Substitute dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter and vegan cheese alternative. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will differ slightly but still be delicious.
How long can leftovers be safely stored in the fridge?
Leftovers should be eaten within 3 to 4 days when stored properly in airtight containers to ensure both safety and quality. Always reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Can I prepare this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can braise the beef in a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot on the stove. It will take longer—about 1.5 to 2 hours on low heat—but the beef will still be tender and flavorful. Just make sure to cover and check occasionally for moisture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce Recipe that makes every bite feel like a celebration of comfort food at its absolute best. It’s quick to make, sure to impress, and utterly satisfying whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to sandwich.
Print
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 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Instant Pot Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with Spicy Cheese Sauce combine tender pressure-cooked beef with a creamy, spicy cheddar cheese sauce, all layered on toasted buttered onion buns for a hearty and flavorful meal. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe balances rich, melt-in-your-mouth textures with a subtle kick of heat.
Ingredients
For the 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
For the 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
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 onion hamburger buns, buttered and toasted
Instructions
- Prepare and Pressure Cook 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.
- Cook Beef Under Pressure: Select the High Pressure setting 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.
- Make Spicy Cheese Sauce: While the beef cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook until it begins bubbling, stirring frequently. 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 melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- Toast Buns and Assemble Sandwiches: Butter and toast the onion hamburger buns. To serve, top each toasted bun with a generous portion of the cooked beef and ladle the creamy cheese sauce over the meat. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Be sure to slice the beef thinly for quicker and more even cooking in the Instant Pot.
- The natural pressure release helps keep the beef tender and juicy.
- You can adjust the hot sauce amount in the cheese sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
- To keep sandwiches from getting soggy, toast the buns just before assembling and serve immediately.
