Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Copycat Recipe: Make the Ultimate Sandwich at Home

I remember the first time I took a bite of Arby’s Beef and Cheddar—it was pure magic. The juicy roast beef paired with that creamy cheddar sauce created a flavor combo that instantly became a favorite. But visiting Arby’s every day? Not always convenient.

That’s why I decided to create a copycat recipe that you can easily make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy the same mouthwatering taste without leaving your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this Beef and Cheddar sandwich is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

• 1 pound thinly sliced roast beef, preferably from the deli
• 4 sandwich rolls, toasted until golden brown
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Tools And Equipment

To master this Arby’s Beef and Cheddar copycat recipe, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what I use in my kitchen:

• Chef’s Knife: For precise slicing of the roast beef, ensuring each piece is tender and evenly cut.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface to prepare ingredients without mess.
• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: Ideal for cooking the beef and preparing the creamy cheddar sauce simultaneously.
• Spoon or Ladle: Helps in mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantee accurate measurements for consistent flavor.
• Grater: For shredding sharp cheddar cheese to the perfect texture.
• Toaster or Oven: To toast the sandwich rolls to a golden brown, adding crunch to every bite.
• Mixing Bowls: Useful for combining seasonings and other ingredients.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the sandwich and stirring the sauce without spills.
• Saucepan: Needed to create the creamy cheese sauce by blending butter, flour, and milk.

Having these tools on hand will make the cooking process smoother and help you recreate this delicious sandwich with ease.

Instructions

Recreating Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwich at home is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to enjoy this classic favorite anytime.

Prep

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Thinly slice 1 pound of roast beef if it isn’t pre-sliced.
• Grate 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese using a fine grater.
• Measure out 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1 cup of warmed milk for the cheddar sauce.
• Gather your seasonings: ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder.

1. Toast the Rolls

• Slice 4 sandwich rolls in half.
• Lightly brush the cut sides with vegetable oil.
• Toast them in a toaster or oven until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Cook

1. Make the Cheddar Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
• Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste.
• Gradually pour in 1 cup of warmed milk, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps.
• Add the grated cheddar cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon onion powder.
• Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Remove from heat.

1. Warm the Roast Beef

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of vegetable oil.
• Place the sliced roast beef in the skillet and heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through and slightly browned.

Assemble

1. Build the Sandwiches

• Spread a generous amount of cheddar sauce on the bottom half of each toasted roll.
• Pile the warmed roast beef evenly on top of the sauce.
• Add a spoonful more of cheddar sauce over the beef for extra creaminess.
• Place the top half of the roll on each sandwich.

1. Serve and Enjoy

• Press down gently on each sandwich to meld the flavors.
• Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the delicious homemade version of Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwich.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing Arby’s Beef and Cheddar at home is not only satisfying but also convenient when you plan ahead. Here’s how I streamline the process to enjoy this delicious sandwich anytime.

Preparing the Beef

1. Slice the Roast Beef

I start by thinly slicing 1 pound of roast beef. Ensuring uniform slices helps in even reheating later.

1. Season the Beef

I mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. Then, I toss the sliced beef with the seasoning mix. This enhances the flavor and makes the beef ready to use.

1. Store the Beef

After seasoning, I let the beef cool to room temperature. I then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days.

Making the Cheddar Sauce

1. Prepare the Sauce Base

In a saucepan, I melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, I whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste.

1. Add Milk and Cheese

Gradually, I add 1 cup of warmed milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens, I incorporate 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the sauce is creamy.

1. Cool and Store

I let the cheddar sauce cool completely. Then, I pour it into a sealed container and refrigerate. The sauce keeps well for up to 4 days.

Toasting the Rolls

1. Prepare the Rolls

I arrange the 4 sandwich rolls on a baking sheet.

1. Toast Ahead

I toast the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before storing.

1. Storage

Once cooled, I wrap the toasted rolls in foil or place them in a resealable bag. They stay fresh for up to 2 days and can be reheated briefly before assembling.

Assembly Day

When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Beef and Cheddar sandwiches:

1. Reheat the Beef and Sauce

I gently reheat the prepared beef in a skillet over medium heat. In a saucepan, I warm the cheddar sauce until it’s smooth and creamy.

1. Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread the cheddar sauce generously on each toasted roll. Layer the warm beef evenly on top.

1. Serve Immediately

For the best flavor and texture, I serve the sandwiches right away, ensuring the cheese sauce is melty and the beef is perfectly heated.

Quick Reference Table

By following these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwiches with minimal effort whenever the craving strikes.

Serving Suggestions

Now that we’ve perfected my copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwich, let’s elevate your dining experience with some delicious serving ideas.

Classic Sides

Pair your sandwich with these timeless favorites for a complete meal:

• Crispy French Fries: Golden and seasoned to perfection.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy contrast to the savory beef.
• Pickles: The perfect bite-sized tang to complement each sandwich.

Homemade Additions

For a homemade touch, try these additional sides:

• Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweet alternative that’s just as crispy.
• Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Onion Rings: Crunchy and flavorful, adding an extra layer of texture.

Beverage Pairings

Choose a refreshing drink to round out your meal:

• Iced Tea: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened for a refreshing taste.
• Lemonade: Sweet and tart, perfect for a summer meal.
• Craft Beer: A robust lager or pale ale complements the hearty flavors.

Presentation Tips

Serve your sandwiches with style to enhance the overall experience:

• Plated Presentation: Arrange the sandwiches on a large platter with sides artfully placed around.
• Individual Plates: For a more personalized touch, serve each sandwich with its own side.
• Garnishes: Add a sprig of fresh parsley or a wedge of lemon for a pop of color.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare parts of your meal in advance to save time:

Conclusion

Making Arby’s Beef and Cheddar at home has been a game-changer for me. It’s amazing how simple ingredients can bring back those tasty memories. Every bite feels just like the original but with the comfort of homemade quality.

I love having a go-to recipe that’s quick and satisfying perfect for any day you crave that savory goodness. Plus it’s fun to customize with your favorite sides and drinks. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that stands out every time.