If you’re looking for a comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches Recipe is just what you need. This crowd-pleaser brings slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth beef together with tangy pepperoncini and rich, buttery flavors, all piled high on a perfectly toasted roll. It’s simple but so rewarding, turning everyday ingredients into an extraordinary sandwich experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is surprisingly straightforward with this recipe, yet each one plays an essential role in building the incredible flavor, tender texture, and inviting aroma that make these sandwiches unforgettable.
- 3-4 pound beef chuck roast: The star of the show, perfect for slow cooking to achieve that tender, shreddable texture.
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil: A high smoke-point oil that helps develop a beautiful crust on the roast during searing.
- 1 large sweet onion (sliced): Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the slow-cooked pot roast.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with savory notes that complement the beef perfectly.
- 1 ounce packet ranch dressing mix: Brings a subtle tang and herbaceous kick to the sauce.
- 1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix: Enriches the gravy, making it flavorful yet light enough to soak into the sandwich bread.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (or 10 whole peppers plus 1/4 cup juice): Provides a zesty and slightly spicy bite that balances the richness of the beef and butter.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce creating luscious richness and mouthfeel.
- Sourdough or hoagie rolls: Ideal for holding all the juicy goodness without getting soggy.
- A little oil for brushing the rolls (optional): Helps toast the bread to a perfect golden crisp.
- Provolone cheese slices: Melts beautifully over the hot roast, adding a creamy layer of flavor.
- Parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful touch that brightens up the finished sandwich.
- Chips for serving: A crunchy sidekick that complements the juicy, tender meat perfectly.
How to Make Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Searing the Roast
Start with heating a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and adding the avocado oil. Sear your chuck roast on all sides, about 5-8 minutes per side, until you get that gorgeous brown crust. This step locks in the flavor and creates a beautiful texture contrast with the tender meat inside. Then, transfer the roast to your slow cooker to start the magic of low-and-slow cooking.
Step 2: Adding the Flavor Boosters
Surround the roast with the sliced sweet onions, then sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the top. Next, add slices of butter, the pepperoncini peppers along with their juice, and finish with the minced garlic. Each of these ingredients will melt together into a rich, tangy sauce that bathes the beef in unforgettable flavor as it cooks.
Step 3: Slow Cooking to Tender Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours, depending on your timeline and the size of the roast. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat falls apart at the touch of a fork—it will be so tender you can’t wait to start making those sandwiches.
Step 4: Shredding and Mixing
Carefully transfer the tender roast to a baking tray or chopping board and shred it using two forks. This is where the fun begins because that shredded beef is going to soak up all the delicious juices left behind. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, stir it into the sauce, and get ready for assembly!
Step 5: Preparing the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Slice the sourdough or hoagie rolls lengthwise, but don’t cut them all the way through—keeping the top connected ensures that the meat stays piled in. Brush the tops lightly with oil to get an irresistible golden toast, then place the rolls on a baking tray and into the oven for 3-5 minutes until perfectly toasted.
Step 6: Building the Sandwiches
Fill each toasted roll with a generous scoop of the juicy shredded beef. Top with extra pepperoncini if you love that tangy kick, and don’t hold back on the provolone cheese slices that melt right into the warm meat. If you want, add fresh lettuce or onions for crunch, then transfer your creation to a serving platter. Serve alongside some of the leftover gravy and crunchy chips for an unbeatable meal.
How to Serve Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches Recipe is in its simplicity, but a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds just the right pop of color and freshness. Extra pepperoncini peppers on the side also brighten each bite with their signature zing.
Side Dishes
Crispy potato chips or fries are classic partners, lending a satisfying crunch against the tender meat. For a healthier option, try crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad that cuts through the richness. Either way, these sides complement the savory depth of your sandwich perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to jazz things up? Arrange your Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra pepperoncini, gravy for dipping, and colorful pickles. You can also turn this into a slider feast by using smaller rolls and letting everyone build their own bite-sized sandwiches—ideal for casual gatherings and parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover roast and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them together allows the flavors to deepen even more as they rest, making your next sandwich just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious meal longer, freeze the shredded roast and juices in a sturdy freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, so it retains its juicy tenderness and flavor.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches Recipe leftovers is gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the meat moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts with a splash of beef broth or water to keep the roast from drying out. Reheat your rolls separately to maintain the toasted texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for the pot roast?
While chuck roast is ideal because of its marbling and slow-cook tenderness, other cuts like brisket or rump roast can work as well. Just make sure they are suitable for slow cooking to get that tender, shred-ready texture.
What if I don’t have pepperoncini peppers?
Pepperoncini add a unique tangy spice, but you can substitute with mild banana peppers or pickled pepper slices. Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can help mimic the bright acidity pepperoncini provide.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for an Instant Pot by searing the roast first on sauté mode, then cooking under high pressure for about 60-75 minutes. Natural release will help keep the meat tender and juicy.
How spicy will this dish be?
The spice level is generally mild, thanks to the gentle heat of the pepperoncini. If you prefer more heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce when mixing the shredded beef.
What type of bread works best for these sandwiches?
Sourdough or hoagie rolls are perfect because they’re sturdy enough to hold the juicy meat and soak up the flavorful gravy without falling apart. You can also try ciabatta or kaiser rolls for a similar effect.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like pulling apart tender, flavorful beef and building it into a messy, irresistible sandwich that hits all the right notes. The Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches Recipe is a personal favorite for good reason—it’s approachable, full of big flavors, and perfect for any occasion when comfort food is calling. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes your go-to meal for cozy dinners and casual get-togethers!
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Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
Description
Tender, flavorful Mississippi Pot Roast slow-cooked to perfection and served on toasted sourdough or hoagie rolls with provolone cheese and pepperoncini peppers, making the ultimate hearty sandwich perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast
- 3–4 pound beef chuck roast
- 1–2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 large sweet onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ounce packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 ounce packet au jus gravy mix
- 1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (or 10 whole peppers plus 1/4 cup juice from jar)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sandwiches
- Sourdough roll or hoagie roll
- A little oil for brushing the rolls (optional)
- Provolone cheese slices
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
- Potato chips for serving
Instructions
- Sear the Roast: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Sear the beef chuck roast for about 5-8 minutes on each side until it develops a nice brown crust. Then transfer the seared roast to the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings: Arrange the sliced onions around the roast in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix all over the roast. Top with slices of unsalted butter, pepperoncini peppers with their juice, and minced garlic.
- Slow Cook the Roast: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-6 hours. The roast is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Shred the Meat: Once tender, remove the roast from the slow cooker and place on a baking tray or chopping board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and mix it thoroughly with the juices and sauce.
- Preheat the Oven: For assembling the sandwiches, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Rolls: Slice the sourdough or hoagie rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through so the buns stay connected and contain the meat better.
- Toast the Rolls: Place the sliced rolls onto a baking tray and lightly brush the tops with oil if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 3-5 minutes until just toasted.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Fill each toasted roll with a generous scoop of the shredded pot roast. Add extra pepperoncini peppers or optional toppings such as lettuce or onions if desired, then layer provolone cheese slices on top.
- Serve: Transfer the sandwiches to a serving platter and serve alongside a small bowl of the leftover gravy from the slow cooker and potato chips. Garnish with parsley if you like. Enjoy your hearty Mississippi Pot Roast Sandwiches!
Notes
- Be sure not to slice the rolls completely through to help hold the filling in place.
- Using a cast iron skillet helps get a better crust on the roast before slow cooking.
- Adjust cooking time depending on the size of your roast for optimal tenderness.
- If you prefer spicier sandwiches, add more pepperoncini peppers or include some of the pickled juice.
- Leftover sandwich components can be stored separately and assembled fresh the next day for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
