Savory Pot Roast Sandwich

A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food

The Savory Pot Roast Sandwich is a rich and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Featuring tender, slow-cooked beef, caramelized onions, and melty cheese on a toasted roll, this sandwich delivers deep, comforting flavors in every bite. Whether served with a side of crispy fries or a warm bowl of soup, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both filling and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender and Juicy Beef – Slow-cooked to perfection, the pot roast is incredibly flavorful and melts in your mouth.
• Rich and Savory Flavor – The combination of seasonings, broth, and slow cooking creates a deep umami taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Great for using up leftover pot roast, making meal prep easier.
• Customizable – Swap out the cheese, add different toppings, or use various bread options.

Ingredients

For the Pot Roast:

• 3–4 lbs beef chuck roast
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sandwich:

• 4 hoagie rolls or French baguettes, sliced in half
• 1 cup caramelized onions (optional)
• 8 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 tbsp garlic powder (for garlic butter spread)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pot Roast

1. Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the roast and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté the sliced onion until soft, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir well.
5. Return the roast to the pot, cover, and slow cook on low for 6–8 hours (or in a 325°F oven for 3–4 hours) until the beef is fork-tender.
6. Once cooked, shred the beef with two forks and mix it with the juices.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Brush the hoagie rolls with melted butter mixed with garlic powder. Toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes until slightly crisp.
3. Layer shredded pot roast onto the bottom half of each roll. Add caramelized onions (if using) and top with two slices of cheese.
4. Place the sandwiches open-faced in the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
5. Close the sandwiches and serve warm.

Variations and Additions

• Cheese Options – Try cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Toppings – Add sautéed mushrooms, roasted peppers, or horseradish sauce for extra depth.
• Bread Choices – Use ciabatta, sourdough, or pretzel buns for a twist.
• Spicy Kick – Mix in some crushed red pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours (slow cooker) or 3–4 hours (oven)
• Total Time: Varies based on cooking method

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftover pot roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm the shredded beef in a skillet over medium heat or microwave with some extra broth to keep it moist.
• Freezing: Store shredded beef in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode to sear the beef. Add remaining ingredients, seal, and cook on High Pressure for 60 minutes, then allow a 15-minute natural release before shredding.

Can I use leftover pot roast?

Yes! Simply reheat leftover pot roast in a pan with a splash of broth before assembling your sandwich.

What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?

Great options include French fries, potato chips, coleslaw, or a side salad for a balanced meal.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and toast the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture.

What’s the best cut of beef for pot roast sandwiches?

Beef chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I make this sandwich without a slow cooker?

Yes! Use a Dutch oven and bake at 325°F for 3–4 hours, checking for tenderness.

How do I make this sandwich less greasy?

Trim excess fat from the roast before cooking and use a slotted spoon to drain excess juices when assembling the sandwich.

What’s the best way to toast the bread?

Brush with butter and toast in the oven at 375°F for 5 minutes, or grill it for extra crispiness.

Can I use store-bought roast beef?

While possible, homemade slow-cooked pot roast provides a much richer and more tender result.

How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

Toast the bread first and drain excess liquid from the beef before placing it on the roll.

Conclusion

The Savory Pot Roast Sandwich is the perfect combination of tender, slow-cooked beef, gooey melted cheese, and a crisp yet soft roll. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using leftover pot roast, this sandwich delivers incredible flavor and comfort. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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