Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy steak sandwich, bursting with the savory flavors of bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, all perfectly seasoned and nestled in a soft, gluten-free roll. This isn’t just a dream – it’s an easy-to-achieve reality with our Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches recipe! Designed for convenience and incredible taste, this meal is not only ready in under 30 minutes but is also entirely gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic option for families with specific dietary needs.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Schär. The opinions are my own.
Effortless Excellence: Mastering Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches
For over a year now, my Instant Pot has revolutionized the way I approach meal preparation. It’s truly been a game-changer, dramatically cutting down the time it takes to create delicious, wholesome meals for my family. Beyond the incredible speed, cooking in the Instant Pot consistently delivers amazing results in terms of taste, moisture, and texture. The magic of pressure cooking transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dishes, making weeknight dinners less of a chore and more of a culinary delight.
Many of you have expressed a desire for more quick and easy Instant Pot recipes, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this one. My passion for cooking with the Instant Pot stems from its ability to simplify complex recipes and infuse every dish with deep, rich flavors. This steak sandwich recipe is a perfect example, proving that fast food doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality or health. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, game days, or any time you crave a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss.
A Gluten-Free Twist on the Classic Philly Cheesesteak
The legendary Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich is traditionally crafted with thinly sliced ribeye, gooey Cheez Whiz, and a specific type of roll known as an Amoroso. While that classic holds a special place, cheesesteak sandwiches have evolved into numerous delightful variations. My goal was to develop an easy, gluten-free dinner recipe that harnesses the power of the Instant Pot to create an equally irresistible steak sandwich experience. This recipe embraces the spirit of a Philly cheesesteak with its tender beef, sautéed vegetables, and a delightful savory broth, all while catering to gluten-free and dairy-free lifestyles.
We’re not just making a sandwich; we’re crafting a comfort food classic, reimagined for modern dietary needs. The result is a steak sandwich that’s incredibly flavorful, wonderfully tender, and universally appealing. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the classic or discovering the joy of steak sandwiches for the first time, this Instant Pot version promises a memorable meal that’s both convenient and utterly delicious.
Crafting Your Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches is a straightforward process, designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Follow these detailed steps to create a meal your entire family will rave about.
- Prepare the Beef: For easier slicing, consider freezing your beef for about 30 minutes before cutting. This optional step helps the meat firm up, allowing you to achieve super thin, even strips. Once slightly firm, cut the ribeye (or sirloin, or top round) against the grain into thin slices and set them aside. Cutting against the grain is crucial for tender beef.
- Season the Steak: In a small bowl, combine your special seasoning blend: salt, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano. Stir these ingredients until well mixed. Generously sprinkle this aromatic seasoning over your thinly sliced beef strips, ensuring each piece is coated for maximum flavor.
- Prep the Vegetables: Slice your bell peppers (a mix of red and green adds color and flavor) and onion into thin strips. If using mushrooms, slice those as well.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Once hot, add the olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for approximately 5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their fragrant aromas. This step builds a foundational layer of flavor for your sandwiches.
- Layer and Add Liquid: Place the seasoned beef strips directly on top of the sautéed vegetables in the Instant Pot. In a separate small bowl, combine the gluten-free Worcestershire sauce with the beef broth, stirring well to mix. Pour this savory liquid mixture evenly over the meat and vegetables in the Instant Pot. The broth will infuse the steak and vegetables with incredible depth.
- Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the vent is sealed. Set the Instant Pot to Manual/High pressure and cook for 8 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 12 minutes before carefully opening the lid. This natural release method helps the meat remain incredibly tender and juicy, preventing it from drying out.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If you prefer the cheese melted directly into the steak mixture, now is the time to add it. Stir until the cheese is beautifully melted and combined with the hot beef and vegetables. Alternatively, you can add cheese slices after you’ve placed the beef mixture onto your rolls, as I often do for a fresher cheese experience.
- Assemble and Serve: Using tongs, transfer the flavorful beef and vegetable mixture onto your Schär Ciabatta Rolls. Pile it high for a truly satisfying sandwich.
- Enjoy with Au Jus: Don’t discard the rich broth left in the Instant Pot! Save it to serve as a delectable au jus for dipping your sandwiches, adding an extra layer of gourmet flavor.
- Store Leftovers: Any leftover steak mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy again.
Pro Tips for the Ultimate Instant Pot Steak Sandwich
Achieving a restaurant-quality steak sandwich at home is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips:
- The Art of Slicing Beef: Freezing your beef for 30 minutes beforehand is a game-changer. The slightly firmed meat allows you to slice it against the grain into incredibly thin, uniform strips, which is key to tender, melt-in-your-mouth steak in every bite.
- Choosing Your Cut: While ribeye is a premium choice for its marbling and flavor, don’t hesitate to use sirloin or top round. If opting for these leaner cuts, sprinkle a little gluten-free meat tenderizer on them a few minutes prior to cooking. This ensures they cook up just as tender and delicious under pressure.
- Don’t Waste the Broth: The savory liquid left in the Instant Pot is liquid gold! It’s infused with all the rich flavors of the steak, vegetables, and seasonings. Always save this concentrated broth to serve as an au jus dipping sauce. It elevates the sandwich experience, especially if you love a good French Dip style meal.
- Perfect Pairing: The choice of roll is paramount. A sturdy yet soft gluten-free roll, like the Schär Ciabatta Rolls, is essential to hold all that delicious filling without crumbling.
- Flavor Customization: Feel free to adjust the seasoning blend to your preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick, or a dash of smoked paprika can introduce a smoky depth.
The Foundation of Flavor: Choosing the Right Gluten-Free Sandwich Rolls
A truly exceptional steak sandwich begins with the perfect roll. It’s not just a vessel; it’s an integral part of the experience, offering textural balance and structural integrity. For those navigating a gluten-free diet, finding a roll that meets these criteria without compromising on taste or texture can be a challenge. That’s where Schär Ciabatta Rolls shine.
These rolls are specifically designed to be both incredibly soft and remarkably sturdy, a combination often elusive in gluten-free breads. Unlike many alternatives that can be prone to crumbling or drying out, Schär Ciabatta Rolls hold up beautifully to the generous, juicy filling of our Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches. They provide the ideal chewiness and a subtle flavor that complements the rich steak and vegetables without overpowering them.
Beyond their delightful taste and texture, Schär Ciabatta Rolls offer significant dietary benefits. They are not only certified gluten-free, ensuring safety for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, but they are also dairy-free, preservative-free, and Non-GMO. This commitment to quality and purity makes them an excellent choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Schär is a leading brand in the gluten-free market, offering an extensive line of certified gluten-free products, including various breads, buns, rolls, crackers, cookies, pizza crusts, and much more. Their dedication to creating delicious and safe options has made them a trusted name in the gluten-free community. I particularly appreciate being able to conveniently find my favorite Schär products at local stores like Walmart. You can also utilize their store finder to locate their products near you, ensuring you always have access to these fantastic gluten-free essentials.
Achieving Perfection: How to Cook Steak in an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is truly a culinary marvel when it comes to cooking steak, especially for recipes like these sandwiches where tenderness and flavor are paramount. The combination of thinly sliced steak, colorful bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and sweet onions transforms into an incredibly tender and juicy mixture. The secret lies in the pressure cooking method, which locks in moisture and infuses every component with the rich flavors of the gluten-free beef broth and our specially crafted homemade beef seasoning mix.
The high-pressure environment tenderizes the meat remarkably quickly, breaking down tougher fibers to create a melt-in-your-mouth texture that would typically require hours of slow cooking. This method also ensures that the vegetables retain a slight bite while becoming beautifully infused with the savory steak juices. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, where the beef remains succulent and the vegetables add a sweet, savory crunch.
As a crucial reminder, make sure you save the broth that accumulates at the bottom of the Instant Pot. This flavorful liquid, often referred to as au jus, is perfect for dipping your finished steak sandwiches, enhancing the overall experience with its concentrated savory essence. It’s an essential component if you enjoy French Dip style sandwiches, adding an extra layer of richness to every bite.
Dairy-Free Delight: Savory Cheese Options for Your Sandwich
Customizing your Instant Pot Steak Sandwich with the right cheese can elevate the experience, and thankfully, there are fantastic options for everyone, including those following a dairy-free diet. As someone who is dairy-free, I’ve found that Daiya mozzarella style shreds melt beautifully into the warm steak mixture, providing that classic creamy, gooey texture without any dairy. Their flavor is mild and pleasing, allowing the robust taste of the steak and vegetables to shine through.
For family members who enjoy dairy, provolone cheese is a traditional and excellent choice for steak sandwiches. Its mild, slightly nutty flavor and superb melting properties make it a perfect complement to the savory beef. Other popular dairy cheese options include American cheese for a classic diner feel or a sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can stir the cheese directly into the hot steak and vegetable mixture in the Instant Pot for an integrated melt, or you can place slices of cheese on top of the warm filling once it’s on the roll, allowing the residual heat to gently soften it. Experiment with different types of dairy-free or traditional cheeses to find your perfect match, ensuring every bite is exactly how you like it.
The Epitome of Easy: A Gluten-Free Sandwich Recipe for Any Occasion
When it comes to quick, delicious, and satisfying meals, dinner doesn’t get much easier or more appealing than these Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches. This recipe is a true testament to the power of smart cooking, delivering a complete, flavorful meal in a remarkable 30 minutes from start to finish. The ease of preparation, combined with the wholesome ingredients and incredible taste, makes these sandwiches a standout choice for any busy household.
They are absolutely perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is short but the craving for a hearty, homemade meal is strong. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a gourmet-quality steak sandwich on the table in minutes. Beyond weeknights, these sandwiches are also an awesome option for weekend game days or casual gatherings. They’re easy to prepare in a larger batch, making them ideal for feeding a crowd, and they offer a more sophisticated alternative to typical game-day fare.
This isn’t just an easy Instant Pot recipe; it’s a guaranteed family favorite. The rich, tender steak, the perfectly cooked vegetables, and the savory au jus all come together in a symphony of flavors that everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions, will enjoy. It’s a convenient, crowd-pleasing dish that proves gluten-free and dairy-free cooking can be both simple and exceptionally tasty. So go ahead, whip up a batch and prepare for rave reviews!
Discover More Easy Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes!
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of these Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of easy, delicious gluten-free dinners waiting for you. Explore some of our other family-favorite recipes that are designed to make your life easier and your meals more enjoyable:
- Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings {Dairy-Free Option}: A comforting classic, made accessible for everyone.
- Gluten-Free Rotisserie Style Shredded Chicken {Instant Pot or Slow Cooker, Dairy-Free}: Versatile and perfect for meal prep, this shredded chicken is a kitchen staple.
- Easy Beef Stew {Instant Pot, Slow-Cooker, Gluten-Free, Paleo, AIP, Whole30}: A hearty and wholesome stew that caters to multiple dietary needs.
- Crispy Chicken Thighs One-Pan Meal {Gluten-Free, Paleo, Whole30, AIP}: Simple, flavorful, and all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup.
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Instant Pot Steak Sandwiches {Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free}
Audrey from Mama Knows Gluten Free
4
people
10
20
30
Ingredients
-
2
tablespoons
olive oil -
2
bell peppers,
(I like red and green bell peppers) -
1
large sweet onion -
1
cup
mushrooms -
1
pound
ribeye steak,
(or sirloin steak or top round) -
1
tablespoon
gluten-free Worcestershire sauce,
(homemade or if using store bought, I like Lea and Perrins) -
1/2
cup
gluten-free beef broth,
(or gluten-free bullion, or gluten-free beef bone broth) -
1
teaspoon
thyme -
1/2
teaspoon
garlic powder -
1/2
teaspoon
oregano -
1/2
teaspoon
salt -
Cheese Slices,
(For dairy-free I like Daiya cheese) - Schär Ciabatta Rolls
Instructions
-
Freeze the beef for 30 minutes (this is optional, but makes the meat easier to cut).
-
Cut the ribeye against the grain into super thin strips and set aside.
-
In a small bowl add the salt, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano. Stir to combine. Sprinkle the seasoning mix on the beef strips.
-
Cut the bell peppers and onion into thin strips.
-
Set the Instant Pot to the Saute setting and add the olive oil.
-
Saute the bell peppers, mushroom, and onions in the Instant Pot for 5 minutes.
-
Add the seasoned beef strips on top of the sauteed vegetables.
-
Add the gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to the beef broth and stir to combine. Pour the beef broth mixture over the meat and vegetables.
-
Put the lid on the Instant Pot and set to the manual/high for 8 minutes.
-
Let the Instant Pot naturally release for 12 minutes before removing the lid.
-
If you want the cheese melted in the steak mixture, add the cheese now. Stir to melt and combine. You can also add the cheese after you put the beef mixture on the rolls.
-
Using tongs, take the beef mixture and place on top of the Schär Ciabatta Rolls. Enjoy!
-
Save the broth to serve as au jus for dipping.
-
Store leftovers in an air-tight container. Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
Notes
- Freeze the beef for 30 minutes (this is optional, but makes the meat easier to cut).
- Store leftovers in an air-tight container. Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- For dairy-free I like Daiya cheese.
- Mama says, “Check all of your labels!”
Nutrition
Serving:
1
serving
Calories:
342
kcal
Carbohydrates:
8
g
Protein:
25
g
Fat:
23
g
Saturated Fat:
8
g
Cholesterol:
69
mg
Sodium:
407
mg
Potassium:
579
mg
Fiber:
2
g
Sugar:
4
g
Vitamin A:
1905
IU
Vitamin C:
79.9
mg
Calcium:
27
mg
Iron:
2.8
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Main Course
American
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