Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Craving a sandwich that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy? Look no further than Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches! These hearty sandwiches feature tender beef, zesty spices, and gooey melted cheese, all stuffed inside a crispy hoagie roll. The best part? You can make this classic sandwich in a fraction of the time, thanks to the Instant Pot. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under two hours that will leave everyone at the table asking for more.

Why Choose Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches?

When it comes to weeknight dinners, convenience without sacrificing flavor is key, and that’s exactly what Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches offer. The beauty of the Instant Pot lies in its ability to cook tough cuts of beef quickly while making them unbelievably tender. By using the pressure cooking method, the beef becomes infused with all the rich spices and seasonings, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Not only does the Instant Pot save time, but it also allows you to make a meal for a crowd or prepare sandwiches in advance. Whether you’re hosting a game day, preparing for a busy family dinner, or simply craving a filling sandwich, this recipe is the answer. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious the final result is.

How to Make Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Making these sandwiches is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create these tasty sandwiches from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into chunks
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup brine from the giardiniera (optional, for added tang)
• 6 6-inch crusty hoagie or sandwich rolls
• 1 1/2 cups DeLallo Giardiniera, chopped (choose hot or mild, depending on your spice preference)
• 6 slices provolone cheese

Directions:

1. Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot:
   Begin by placing the beef chunks, garlic, onion, oregano, basil, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and beef broth into your Instant Pot. Stir everything to combine. If you like a bit of tang, add the brine from the giardiniera to the mix for an extra punch of flavor.
2. Cook on High Pressure:
   Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-20 minutes. This slow release helps the beef retain its juices, making it even more tender.
3. Shred the Beef:
   After releasing the pressure, carefully open the Instant Pot. Remove the beef and shred it with two forks. The beef should easily pull apart into tender, flavorful pieces. Save the remaining broth in the Instant Pot, as it will be used for dipping.
4. Melt the Cheese:
   While the beef is resting, take your sandwich rolls and slice them open. Place a slice of provolone cheese on each side of the buns and place them under the broiler for a minute or two, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
   Once the cheese has melted, pile the shredded beef onto each sandwich. Top with a generous portion of giardiniera (adjust the amount based on your spice preference).
6. Serve:
   Serve the sandwiches hot, accompanied by a small bowl of the leftover broth for dipping. The combination of the savory beef, spicy giardiniera, and melted cheese will make these sandwiches irresistible.

How to Serve Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches are best served hot, making the beef and cheese ooze together in a savory, melt-in-your-mouth experience. They pair perfectly with a small bowl of beef broth for dipping, enhancing the rich flavors of the beef. For the perfect meal, serve them with:

• Chips or Crispy Fries: The crunch from chips or fries complements the tender beef perfectly.
• Fresh Salad: A light salad can help balance the richness of the sandwich. Try an arugula salad with a simple vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you’re craving a healthier side, roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots go wonderfully with these sandwiches.

These sandwiches are ideal for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy evening meal. You can also serve them at your next BBQ or game day party for a filling, crowd-pleasing dish.

How to Store Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry — Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches store wonderfully. Here’s how to keep your leftover beef and giardiniera fresh:

1. Store Separately:
   Store the shredded beef and giardiniera separately from the sandwich rolls. This will prevent the rolls from getting soggy.
2. Use Airtight Containers:
   Place the beef and giardiniera in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
3. Reheat the Beef:
   To reheat, simply warm the beef in the microwave or on the stovetop, then assemble your sandwich when ready. You can also reheat the broth for dipping if desired.

If you want to extend the shelf life of your leftovers, you can freeze the shredded beef for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

• Trim the Beef:
  Before cooking, trim any excess fat from the beef. This will ensure that the beef is leaner and the sandwich isn’t too greasy.
• Adjust the Spice Level:
  This recipe calls for red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the level of spiciness to your taste. Add more if you like a spicy kick, or reduce the amount if you prefer something milder.
• Marinate the Beef:
  For an even more flavorful sandwich, marinate the beef in the spices and broth for 1-2 hours before cooking. This will allow the beef to absorb more flavor.
• Experiment with Cheese:
  While provolone is traditional, you can swap it for other cheeses such as mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar, depending on your personal preference.

Variations on Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While the classic version is delicious, you can always switch things up to suit your tastes. Here are a few ways to make the recipe your own:

• Change the Bread:
  If hoagie rolls aren’t available, you can use French baguettes, ciabatta rolls, or even soft sandwich rolls. Each type of bread will give the sandwich a different texture and flavor.
• Add Veggies:
  You can enhance the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to the beef mixture. These veggies will absorb the broth and spices, adding even more depth to the sandwich.
• Make it a Wrap:
  If you want a low-carb option, try wrapping the shredded beef and giardiniera in a large lettuce leaf or low-carb tortilla for a healthier version of this delicious sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches in a slow cooker?

Yes! If you prefer using a slow cooker, you can cook the beef on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shredded. The slow cooker will still result in flavorful beef, though the cooking time will be longer.

2. Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Yes, to make a healthier version, you can use a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin, and opt for a lower-fat cheese. You could also skip the bread and serve the beef and giardiniera over a bed of greens for a lighter meal.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the shredded beef for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts on Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches

Instant Pot Italian Beef Sandwiches are the perfect combination of ease and flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty, delicious meal that will satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing for a special event, or simply craving a filling sandwich, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The tenderness of the beef, the tang of the giardiniera, and the melted provolone all come together for an unforgettable sandwich experience. Try it today and enjoy the deliciousness in every bite!