Instant Pot Pot Roast Sandwiches

So you’ve got a craving for something messy, juicy, and deeply satisfying… but you’re not about to slow-roast beef for six hours like it’s 1952? Same. That’s exactly why these Instant Pot Pot Roast Sandwiches exist.

We’re talking tender, fall-apart beef piled high on a toasted bun, dripping with savory gravy. It’s comfort food, but in sandwich form. And yes, it’s as glorious as it sounds.

Why This Recipe Is Awesome

First of all, it’s basically pot roast with a glow-up. You get all that rich, slow-cooked flavor, but you turn it into a handheld masterpiece. Less fork, more fun.

Second, the Instant Pot makes it ridiculously easy. You press a few buttons, walk away, and come back to beef so tender it practically shreds itself. It’s so simple, even on your most chaotic weeknight, you can pull this off.

And let’s be real—sandwiches just hit differently. Add melty cheese or dunk it in gravy? Game over.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s your lineup of sandwich greatness:

• 3 pounds chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 6 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns
• 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese (optional but highly recommended)

Optional extras because we like options:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Caramelized onions
• Horseradish sauce

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Sear the beef.
   Turn your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and brown the roast on all sides. Don’t rush this step—browning builds flavor.
2. Add aromatics.
   Remove the roast briefly. Toss in sliced onions and cook until softened. Add garlic and stir for about 30 seconds.
3. Build the base.
   Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom. That’s flavor gold.
4. Pressure cook.
   Return the roast to the pot. Seal and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Let it naturally release for 15 minutes before quick releasing the rest.
5. Shred the beef.
   Remove the roast and shred it with two forks. It should fall apart easily. If it doesn’t, it needs a few more minutes.
6. Assemble the sandwiches.
   Pile shredded beef onto toasted rolls. Add cheese if using. Spoon a little gravy over the top. Serve with extra broth on the side for dipping.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Skipping the sear.
Yes, it adds time. No, you shouldn’t skip it. Flavor matters.

Using lean beef.
Chuck roast is king here. Lean cuts won’t shred properly.

Quick releasing too soon.
Let that pressure drop naturally for at least 15 minutes. Patience pays off.

Overloading the sandwich.
Tempting? Yes. Manageable? Not always. Build wisely.

Alternatives & Substitutions

No chuck roast?
Use brisket or bottom round, but chuck is the sweet spot IMO.

Want it spicy?
Add pepperoncini to the pot for a tangy kick.

Low-carb option?
Skip the bun and serve the beef in lettuce wraps.

No provolone?
Use mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar. Melted cheese makes everything better.

Prefer a French dip vibe?
Keep extra broth for dipping. It’s next-level good.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The beef tastes even better the next day once the flavors settle.

Can I freeze the shredded beef?
Absolutely. Store it with some broth so it stays juicy.

Do I have to toast the buns?
You don’t have to, but you should. Toasted buns hold up better to juicy beef.

Can I cook the vegetables with the roast?
Yes, but for sandwiches, keeping it simple often works best.

What’s the best cheese for this?
Provolone melts beautifully. Swiss is also solid. Cheddar works if that’s your vibe.

Can I use a slow cooker instead?
Sure, cook on low for 8 hours. But the Instant Pot gets you there way faster.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Pot Roast Sandwiches are bold, juicy, and ridiculously satisfying. They take classic pot roast and turn it into something handheld and crave-worthy. It’s comfort food that doesn’t demand an all-day commitment.

Now go stack that sandwich high, grab a napkin, and take a glorious bite. You’ve officially leveled up your sandwich game.