Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This dish combines tender, flavorful beef with gooey cheddar cheese, all nestled in a warm onion bun. With minimal effort, you can create a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Whether it’s game day or a family dinner, these sandwiches are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just season your meat, set it in the crockpot, and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Incredible Flavor: The combination of beef broth, ranch seasoning, and Arby’s sauce creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These sandwiches work well for casual dinners, parties, or even meal prepping for the week.
• Customizable Toppings: Top with your favorite ingredients like Horsey sauce for an extra kick or add some veggies for crunch.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making this dish a hit at the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential kitchen tools before you start.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Crockpot
• Two forks (for shredding)
• Sheet pan

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Searing your roast enhances its flavor and gives it a nice crust before slow cooking.
• Crockpot: Ideal for easy, low-and-slow cooking that yields tender meat without much attention.
• Two forks: Perfect for effortlessly shredding the cooked beef into delicious pieces ready for your sandwiches.

Ingredients

These are an easy and delicious dinner recipe!

For the Beef

• 3 lb chuck roast
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp each of Ranch seasoning and Montreal Steak seasoning
• 1 onion sliced

For the Sandwiches

• Arby’s sauce
• Horsey sauce
• Onion Buns
• Cheddar cheese

How to Make Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

1. Season the chuck roast on all sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet.
3. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides until browned.

Step 2: Set Up the Crockpot

1. Place the seared roast in a large crockpot.
2. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth around the meat.
3. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon each of ranch seasoning and Montreal steak seasoning over the roast.
4. Add minced garlic and sliced onions on top.
5. Drizzle enough Arby’s sauce over the roast to cover it.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Beef

1. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours.
2. After cooking, carefully remove the roast from the crockpot using tongs.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

1. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
2. Discard any excess fat from the shredded beef.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

1. Stir in a bit more Arby’s sauce into the shredded beef until well combined.
2. Lay out onion buns on a sheet pan.
3. Add a scoop of shredded beef to each bottom bun.
4. Top with onions from the crockpot, additional Arby’s sauce, and slices of cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Melt Cheese & Serve

1. Place sandwiches under the broiler in your oven to melt cheese and toast buns lightly.
2. Once melted to your liking, remove from oven and add Horsey sauce if desired before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with friends and family!

How to Serve Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh and warm. The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and flavorful sauces creates a delightful meal that can be customized for everyone at the table.

Classic Style

• Onion Buns: Serve the shredded beef on soft onion buns for a classic taste.
• Cheddar Cheese: Top with gooey cheddar for a rich flavor that complements the beef.

Toppings Galore

• Pickles: Add sliced pickles for a crunchy, tangy contrast.
• Sautéed Peppers: Include sautéed bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor.

Dipping Options

• Extra Arby’s Sauce: Offer additional Arby’s sauce on the side for dipping.
• Horsey Sauce: Provide Horsey sauce for those who enjoy a kick of heat.

Side Pairings

• Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch.
• Coleslaw: Add coleslaw as a refreshing side that balances the richness of the sandwiches.

How to Perfect Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

To create the ultimate Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with your seasonings. A good blend enhances the meat’s flavor significantly.
• Sear Before Cooking: Searing the roast before placing it in the crockpot locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the meat to cook on low heat for 8 hours ensures it becomes tender and easy to shred.
• Use Quality Broth: Opt for high-quality beef broth to improve overall taste. Homemade broth is ideal if you have it available.
• Customize Your Sauces: Feel free to adjust the amount of Arby’s sauce or Horsey sauce based on your preference for spiciness.
• Toast Your Buns: Don’t skip toasting your buns under the broiler; this adds texture and keeps them from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Pairing sides with your sandwiches enhances the meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement your Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches perfectly.

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic choice that adds crunch alongside your sandwiches.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
3. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad provides a light, refreshing balance to rich sandwiches.
4. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad adds a comforting touch, perfect for gatherings.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is an easy, seasonal side that pairs well with beef.
6. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add sweetness and depth, making them an excellent choice alongside sandwiches.
7. Potato Salad: A classic summer favorite that complements any barbecue dish beautifully.
8. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients to your meal while enhancing flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the roast can lead to less flavor. Always brown the meat in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot to enhance its taste.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: Filling the crockpot too much can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for heat circulation by using the appropriate size crockpot for your roast.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can result in dry meat. Ensure that you add enough beef broth to cover at least half of the roast while cooking.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to properly season your ingredients can dull flavors. Apply salt, pepper, and seasoning generously to all sides of the roast before cooking.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Cooking on high may not yield tender results. Always cook on low for around 8 hours for perfectly shredded beef.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

• Freeze shredded beef in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap sandwiches in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place sandwiches on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet, pressing down slightly, and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling, which keeps it tender during slow cooking.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! Chicken or lamb can also work well for these sandwiches if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my toppings for these sandwiches?

You can add toppings like sautéed peppers, jalapeños, or different types of cheese according to your preference.

How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days or frozen for up to 2–3 months.

Conclusion

Crockpot Shredded Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches are a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize toppings and flavors as desired. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family will love it!

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