Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook the roast on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes (depending on size), then natural release for 15 minutes. You'll get similar tender results in much less time, though the flavors may not develop quite as deeply as the slow-cooked version.

What if I can't find gruyere cheese?

Swiss cheese makes an excellent substitute with its nutty flavor profile. Provolone or even a white cheddar would also work well. The key is choosing a cheese that melts smoothly and complements the rich beef flavor.

Can I use leftover roast beef instead of cooking a new roast?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for repurposing leftover roast beef. Just heat the meat with some beef broth and a sprinkle of the seasonings to refresh the flavors. It's a great shortcut when you're craving this sandwich but short on time.

How do I make this more kid-friendly?

For little ones who might find the open-faced presentation challenging, you can make a closed sandwich version. Use the same ingredients but add a second piece of bread on top and cut into manageable triangles. You might also want to substitute the gruyere with a milder cheese like mozzarella or American.

Open Faced Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe

Name: Open Faced Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 pounds beef roast (such as chuck or rump); 4 ounces au jus seasoning mix (2 packages); 4 ounces dry Italian salad dressing mix (2 packages); 32 ounces low-sodium beef broth; 4 cups mashed potatoes; 8 slices thick and crusty bread (such as Texas Toast); ½ cup freshly shredded Gruyere cheese

This mouthwatering Open Faced Roast Beef Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender, slow-cooked beef with creamy mashed potatoes and crusty bread, all topped with melted gruyere cheese. The beef simmers all day in savory seasonings until it’s fall-apart tender, creating a delicious meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for those days when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours actively cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-off Cooking: Once you set up the crockpot, you’re free to go about your day while dinner practically makes itself!
Crowd-Pleaser: This sandwich hits all the right notes – tender meat, creamy potatoes, crusty bread, and melted cheese. Even picky eaters will be impressed.
Impressive Presentation: These sandwiches look like something from a restaurant but require minimal effort on your part.
Comforting Flavors: The combination of slow-cooked beef, savory au jus, and gruyere cheese creates a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Beef Roast: Chuck or rump roast works perfectly here. These cuts become incredibly tender when slow-cooked and have excellent flavor. Look for one with good marbling for the best results.
Au Jus Seasoning Mix: This creates the foundation for that rich, beefy flavor. It infuses the meat with savory goodness as it cooks.
Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix: Adds a perfect blend of herbs and seasonings without any extra work on your part. It brings complexity to the flavor profile.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth: Forms the cooking liquid and becomes your delicious au jus. Using low-sodium lets you control the salt level in the final dish.
Mashed Potatoes: Creates a creamy layer between the bread and meat. They add texture contrast and absorb some of that delicious beef juice.
Crusty Bread: Texas Toast or another thick, sturdy bread works best. It needs to stand up to the toppings without getting soggy.
Gruyere Cheese: Has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the beef perfectly. It melts beautifully for that ideal cheese pull.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Meat Options

Try using a pork roast or even turkey breast for a lighter option. The cooking method remains the same, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Cheese Alternatives

If gruyere isn’t your thing, try provolone, swiss, or even a sharp cheddar. Each brings its own character to the sandwich.

Potato Swaps

Instead of mashed potatoes, try a layer of creamy polenta or roasted garlic mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb option.

Bread Choices

Sourdough, ciabatta, or a rustic country loaf all make excellent bases. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold up to the toppings.

How to Make Open Faced Roast Beef Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

Spray your crockpot with nonstick spray. Place the beef roast inside and sprinkle with both the au jus and Italian dressing seasoning packets. Pour the beef broth over everything, covering the roast as much as possible.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set your crockpot to high and let the magic happen for 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat easily shreds with a fork. Your house will smell amazing all day!

Step 3: Prepare the Components

When the beef is done, carefully strain the broth into a bowl – this liquid gold will become your au jus. Shred or slice the beef, discarding any fatty bits. Prepare your mashed potatoes according to your favorite recipe.

Step 4: Toast the Bread

Toast your thick bread slices until they’re golden brown. For extra-thick bread, broiling for 2-4 minutes often works better than a standard toaster.

Step 5: Assemble Your Masterpiece

Start with the toasted bread on plates, then spread a generous layer of mashed potatoes. Top with plenty of the tender beef, drizzle with the reserved au jus, and finish with a sprinkle of gruyere cheese. If you want the cheese melted, pop under the broiler for a minute or two.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Sear First: For even more flavor, sear the roast on all sides before adding it to the crockpot.
Don’t Skip Straining: Straining the cooking liquid removes any bits of fat or gristle and gives you a smooth, perfect au jus.
Toast Thoroughly: Make sure your bread is well-toasted to prevent it from getting soggy under all those toppings.
Rest the Meat: Let the beef rest for about 10 minutes before shredding for juicier results.
Reserve Extra Au Jus: Keep small bowls of extra au jus on the side for dipping – trust me, everyone will want more!

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the sandwich. A side of roasted vegetables also works wonderfully.

Beverage Suggestions

This hearty sandwich pairs beautifully with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a dark beer. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with lemon or homemade iced tea.

Make It a Meal

For a complete dinner experience, start with a light soup (like a clear consommé) before serving the sandwiches as the main event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the components separately for best results. Keep the meat in its au jus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Mashed potatoes can be refrigerated separately.

Freezing

The beef freezes beautifully! Portion it out with some au jus in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Gently warm the beef and au jus in a saucepan over medium-low heat until heated through. Reheat mashed potatoes with a splash of milk or cream to maintain their creamy texture. Assemble sandwiches with freshly toasted bread.

FAQs

Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook the roast on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes (depending on size), then natural release for 15 minutes. You’ll get similar tender results in much less time, though the flavors may not develop quite as deeply as the slow-cooked version.
What if I can’t find gruyere cheese?

Swiss cheese makes an excellent substitute with its nutty flavor profile. Provolone or even a white cheddar would also work well. The key is choosing a cheese that melts smoothly and complements the rich beef flavor.
Can I use leftover roast beef instead of cooking a new roast?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for repurposing leftover roast beef. Just heat the meat with some beef broth and a sprinkle of the seasonings to refresh the flavors. It’s a great shortcut when you’re craving this sandwich but short on time.
How do I make this more kid-friendly?

For little ones who might find the open-faced presentation challenging, you can make a closed sandwich version. Use the same ingredients but add a second piece of bread on top and cut into manageable triangles. You might also want to substitute the gruyere with a milder cheese like mozzarella or American.

Final Thoughts

This Open Faced Roast Beef Sandwich transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. There’s something incredibly satisfying about tender, flavorful beef paired with creamy potatoes and melty cheese, all sitting atop crusty bread. Whether you’re serving it for a Sunday family dinner or prepping it for a busy weeknight, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try next time you’re craving something hearty and comforting – your taste buds will thank you!