Description
Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and low-effort meal that feeds a crowd? These Slow Cooker Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches are the answer. Tender, juicy beef slow-cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, all piled high on a soft sandwich bun—this is comfort food at its finest. Ideal for game day, family dinners, or easy weeknight meals.
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Ingredients
For the Beef:
3 lbs chuck roast or beef shoulder, trimmed of excess fat
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 small onion, thinly sliced
For the Cheddar Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground mustard (optional)
For Serving:
6–8 sandwich buns (brioche, hamburger, or hoagie rolls)
Pickles, caramelized onions, or jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add the beef roast on top.
In a small bowl, mix the beef broth, Worcestershire, soy sauce, brown sugar, and seasonings.
Pour the mixture over the beef. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
Step 2: Shred the Beef
Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred using two forks.
Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir to coat in the juices. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Step 3: Make the Cheddar Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Reduce heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and mustard (if using).
Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thick and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Toast sandwich buns if desired.
Pile the shredded beef onto the bottom half of each bun.
Drizzle with warm cheddar cheese sauce.
Top with pickles, onions, or jalapeños if desired, and place the top bun.
Notes
Use a Well-Marbled Cut – Chuck roast becomes ultra-tender when slow cooked.
Toast the Buns – Helps hold the sandwich together and adds texture.
Add Extras – Try coleslaw, crispy onions, or BBQ sauce for a twist.
Double the Sauce – It’s so good, you’ll want extra for dipping!
Make It Ahead – The beef can be cooked a day in advance and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (slow cooker)
- Cuisine: American