Have you ever craved the tantalizing flavors of Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich but wished you could enjoy it from the comfort of your own kitchen? Your wish is about to come true as we have unlocked the secrets behind crafting the ultimate copycat recipe that will have you savoring every delectable bite, right at home.
Arby’s Roast Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches are a fast-food favorite. For years, they have delighted visitors with a fusion of succulent thin sliced roast beef, velvety cheddar cheese sauce, and a soft, pillowy bun. We think our replication is pretty accurate.
Either way, it is a delicious roast beef sandwich that you should try at home at least once.
Enjoy perfectly seasoned roast beef with a rich cheddar sauce that oozes indulgence. Our copycat version step-by-step guide will equip you with all the knowledge needed to master this mouthwatering dish.
Table of contents
What Makes this Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar the Best?
When it comes to a copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich, several key factors contribute to making it the best:
Perfectly Seasoned Roast Beef. The foundation of this sandwich lies in the roast beef. The best copycat recipe ensures that the roast beef is thinly sliced, tender, and expertly seasoned. The right blend of spices enhances the beef’s flavor, making each bite irresistibly delicious.
Rich and Velvety Cheddar Sauce. The creamy cheddar cheese sauce is what takes this sandwich to the next level. A well-crafted copycat recipe replicates Arby’s signature cheddar sauce, ensuring it’s creamy, smooth, and oozing with cheesy goodness. The balance of sharp cheddar flavor and creaminess is key.
Authentic Arby’s Sauce. The inclusion of Arby’s sauce in the sandwich is what sets it apart. A successful copycat recipe captures the essence of this unique sauce, which brings a tangy and slightly sweet element to the overall flavor profile.
Fresh and Soft Hamburger Bun. The bun is the vessel that holds all the delicious fillings together. Opt for a soft and slightly sweet hamburger bun, which complements the savory fillings and adds a pleasant contrast to the flavors.
Attention to Sauce Ratios. Striking the perfect balance between the cheddar sauce, Arby’s sauce, and creamy horseradish sauce is crucial for achieving the authentic Arby’s flavor. The best copycat recipe ensures each sauce complements the others without overpowering the sandwich. When making this at home, you can customize the amounts you add to your own sandwich.
Serve Warm and Fresh. Just like any great sandwich, the Arby’s Beef and Cheddar copycat is best enjoyed when served warm and fresh. This ensures that the cheese sauce is gooey, the roast beef is tender, and all the flavors are at their peak.
Customizing Your Sandwich
Customizable Spice Level. While staying true to the original, a great copycat recipe may offer some room for customization. Allowing individuals to adjust the spice level or play with the ingredients to suit their taste preferences adds a personal touch to the sandwich.
An Array of Sides. While the focus is on the sandwich itself, the best copycat recipe suggests a range of side dishes that complement and enhance the overall meal. Curly fries, French fries, onion rings, or coleslaw are all excellent options to make the experience even more enjoyable.
With these elements in mind, a well-crafted copycat recipe will transport you to the delightful realm of Arby’s, offering a homemade version that might just rival the beloved original.
What Pairs Well with This Great Roast Beef Sandwich?
The Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich is a hearty and flavorful meal on its own, but there are several delicious side dishes and beverages that pair well with it to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:
Curly Fries. Nothing complements a roast beef sandwich quite like a side of crispy, seasoned curly fries. The combination of the savory sandwich and the crunchy fries is a match made in fast-food heaven.
Onion Rings. Another fantastic side choice is crispy and golden onion rings. The sweet and tangy flavor of the onions pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cheddar sauce and the roast beef.
Coleslaw. For a refreshing and creamy side, serve the Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich with a classic coleslaw. The cool and crunchy texture of the coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the warm and hearty sandwich.
Pickles. Pickles, whether dill or bread-and-butter style, offer a zesty and tangy element that balances the richness of the sandwich. You can serve them on the side or even layer a few slices inside the sandwich for an extra burst of flavor.
Garden Salad. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can complement the sandwich nicely.
Sweet Potato Fries. If you prefer a slightly healthier option, opt for sweet potato fries. They offer a delightful sweetness and a crisp texture that pairs well with the savory sandwich.
Corn on the Cob. In the summer months, grilled corn on the cob with a touch of butter and seasoning can be a fantastic side dish to accompany the sandwich.
Drinks and Dessert Pairings
Soft Drinks or Iced Tea. Classic beverages like cola or iced tea make great accompaniments to the Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich. The carbonation and sweetness help balance the savory flavors.
Milkshake. For a nostalgic and indulgent treat, pair the sandwich with a creamy milkshake. Vanilla, chocolate, or even a coffee-flavored shake can all be delightful choices.
Apple Slices with Caramel Sauce. End your meal on a sweet note with apple slices and a drizzle of caramel sauce. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors complements the savory sandwich nicely.
Feel free to mix and match these side dishes based on your preferences and dietary choices. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these pairings will elevate your meal.
Make Your Own Homemade Arby’s Sauce
Once you know how restaurants amp up flavors, you can make your own homemade sauces and transform your meals too. Often, it just takes a few simple ingredients and a few minutes.
If you want to try making the Arby’s sauce from scratch, combine in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 5-10 minutes until the flavors meld together.
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- a pinch of salt
- a pinch of black pepper
Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheddar sauce.
How to Store and reheat Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches
To ensure the best taste and texture when storing and reheating the Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches, follow these simple steps:
When storing, let the sandwiches cool slightly before storing them to prevent condensation.
Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh and prevent the ingredients from drying out.
Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or a zip-top bag to further protect them from moisture and odors in the refrigerator.
Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.
Refrigerating. Store the wrapped sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Beyond this time, the quality may start to decline.
Reheating.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Unwrap the sandwiches and place them on a baking sheet. If they have any separate sauce containers (like the cheddar sauce), refrigerate them separately and reheat as needed.
Bake the sandwiches in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through, and the cheese sauce is melty and gooey.
Alternatively, you can reheat the sandwiches in a microwave. Microwave each sandwich on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. However, this method may result in softer onion buns compared to oven reheating.
Adding Fresh Sauces.
If you have any fresh sauce or toppings (like Arby’s sauce, creamy horseradish sauce, or pickles) that were not originally heated with the sandwiches, you can add them after reheating to maintain their freshness and texture.
Note on Sauce Separation:
When reheating, the cheese sauce may slightly separate or thicken. Simply give it a good stir to restore its creamy consistency.
Reheat in Small Batches.
If you have multiple sandwiches to reheat, consider reheating them in small batches to ensure even heating and prevent some parts from becoming overcooked.
Mastering the Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich at Home
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Kitchen Essentials
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Roast Beef thinly sliced
- 1 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil
- 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
- 1 Cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1/2 Cup Milk
- 2 Tablespoons Butter
- 1 Tablespoon All-purpose Flour
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
- 4 Hamburger Buns onion buns, or sesame seed buns work well
- 1/4 Cup Arby’s Sauce store-bought or see tip below for homemade version
- 4 Tablespoons Creamy Horseradish Sauce
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.1 Tablespoon Vegetable Oil
- Add the thinly sliced roast beef to the skillet and season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.1 Pound Roast Beef, 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder, 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper
- Cook the until the roast beef is heated through and lightly browned. Approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set it aside.
- Making the saucy cheddar recipe. Next in a small saucepan, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Make a roux by adding the flour and cook 1-2 minutes stirring constantly until it is a smooth paste.1 Cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, 1/2 Cup Milk, 2 Tablespoons Butter, 1 Tablespoon All-purpose Flour, Salt, Black Pepper
- Gradually add the milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the milk is added, continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, reduce the heat to low and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Assembling the Roast Beef Sandwiches
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the hamburger buns in half and place them sliced side up on a baking sheet.4 Hamburger Buns
- Toast the buns in the preheated oven for 3-4 minutes until they are slightly crispy.
- On the bottom bun, spread a tablespoon of Arby’s sauce.1/4 Cup Arby’s Sauce
- Next add a generous portion of the cooked roast beef.
- Drizzle a few tablespoons of warm cheddar sauce over the top of the roast beef.4 Tablespoons Creamy Horseradish Sauce
- Finally, spread a tablespoon of creamy horseradish sauce on the top half of the bun. Place the over the cheddar sauce.
- Your homemade delicious and tasty sandwich is now ready to serve. Enjoy your arby’s roast beef right away while the cheese sauce is still gooey, and the roast beef is warm.
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Make Arby’s Horsey Sauce Right at Home!
Arby’s Horsey Sauce is a creamy and tangy condiment that adds a delightful kick to their famous roast beef sandwiches. Here’s a simple recipe to recreate it at home:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and prepared horseradish.
- Add the white vinegar, paprika, salt, and garlic powder to the bowl.
- Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference, adding more horseradish for extra heat if desired.
- Transfer the Horsey Sauce to a jar or container with a lid.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Note: This homemade version of Arby’s Horsey Sauce closely replicates the flavor of the original. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy dipping your roast beef sandwiches into this deliciously zesty sauce!
Homemade Arby’s Cheddar Recipe
While Arby’s keeps their exact recipes closely guarded, here is our version of their roast beef sandwiches. Here’s a simple recipe inspired by the flavors of Arby’s Cheddar Sauce:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
- Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before using it as a topping for your roast beef sandwiches.
This homemade cheddar sauce is rich, creamy, and pairs perfectly with thinly sliced roast beef. While it may not be identical to Arby’s Cheddar Sauce, it captures the essence of the classic topping.
You can find Victoria crocheting, quilting, and creating recipes. She has cooked in restaurants for over 20 years, including many larger parties. She learned to crochet when she was just 11 years old and has been crocheting ever since; over 50 years now. Over 40 years ago, she loved her first class in sewing and continues to hone her skills in quilting. Many have enjoyed the handmade gifts over the years. In her professional career, she has worked in management in a wide variety of businesses including higher education as a dean of a division. All the while attending college part-time to achieve her doctorate in higher education with an emphasis in e-learning.