This homemade version of the classic Arby's Beef and Cheddar sandwich layers thin, juicy roast beef and creamy cheddar sauce on a soft onion bun, topped with a tangy, homemade dressing. Warm deli beef simmers gently in beef broth for extra flavor, while a quick cheese sauce comes together with sharp cheddar and milk. A sweet and zesty sauce is spread on toasted onion buns, adding authentic fast-food flair. Perfect with curly fries for a nostalgic meal, this sandwich delivers big flavor and hearty satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or satisfying weeknight cravings.
This Copycat Arbys Beef and Cheddar sandwich captures all the nostalgia of the classic fast food favorite using easy pantry ingredients and simple techniques. Thinly sliced roast beef is gently warmed in savory broth, then piled onto a soft onion bun and smothered in a homemade cheese sauce and zesty Arbys-inspired sauce. No drive-thru needed for this delicious comfort food fix.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about twenty five minutes
- Uses everyday pantry ingredients for the sauces
- Makes four hearty sandwiches or eight smaller ones if you prefer
- No special equipment needed just a couple saucepans and a skillet
I first whipped this up for a backyard movie night and it instantly became a request for every birthday and football party. The homemade sauce really sends it over the top and the extra cheese sauce never lasts long.
Ingredients
- Ketchup: gives the signature tangy tomato base to the special Arbys sauce opt for a brand without corn syrup for best flavor
- Light brown sugar: balances tartness with a mellow sweetness finely packed for measuring accuracy
- Apple cider vinegar: sharpens the sauce with bright acidity use an unfiltered type for more depth
- Worcestershire sauce: adds that savory umami hit a small splash makes all the difference
- Garlic powder and onion powder: round out the flavors go for a fresh jar to keep the spices vibrant
- Unsalted butter: is the base for the cheese sauce pick a high quality stick for creamy results
- All purpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce use one with a neutral flavor
- Whole milk: keeps the cheese sauce luscious skip low fat for richness
- Sharp cheddar cheese: brings sharp tang and a melty finish shred your own block for smoothest sauce
- Low sodium beef broth: is used to gently warm the roast beef keeping salt in check choose a robust broth for better flavor
- Deli roast beef: should be thinly sliced and fresh from the deli counter look for visible marbling
- Onion hamburger buns: have a touch of sweet and savory flavor for that classic Arbys style look for fresh bakery buns for best texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
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