Savory Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich

Craving the familiar flavors of your favorite fast food indulgence, but looking to enjoy it from the comfort of your own kitchen? Look no further than this delectable Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar recipe. Bringing together tender roast beef, creamy cheese sauce, and that iconic tangy signature sauce, these sandwiches are a true delight for your taste buds.

I stumbled upon this recipe while trying to satisfy my youngest’s Arby’s cravings without breaking the bank. Little did I know that this homemade version would surpass the original in freshness, taste, and portion sizes. Witnessing the joy on my family’s faces as they sink their teeth into these sandwiches, reminiscent of their drive-through favorite, is truly priceless.

From the perfectly warmed roast beef to the velvety cheese sauce, every element of these Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwiches comes together harmoniously. The secret lies in the simple pantry ingredients and a bit of kitchen finesse. So, roll up your sleeves, follow along, and get ready to create a fast food classic that will have your loved ones asking for seconds, and maybe even the recipe, just like my sister’s son did.

Quick Benefits

• Healthier Alternative: Using fresh ingredients allows for better control over the quality and nutrition of the meal, compared to fast food options.
• Cost-Effective: Making these sandwiches at home is a budget-friendly option compared to purchasing them at a restaurant, especially for larger families or gatherings.
• Customizable: The recipe is versatile and allows for personalization with additional toppings, spices, or adjustments to suit individual tastes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Components of the dish, like the Arby’s sauce and cheese sauce, can be prepared in advance, making meal planning and prep more convenient.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Recreate the iconic taste of Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwich right in your own kitchen.
• Cost-Effective: Save money by making this delicious meal at home instead of going out to eat.
• Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy fresher ingredients and more generous portions than the fast-food version.
• Satisfaction of Homemade: Know exactly what goes into your food and enjoy the satisfaction of making it yourself.
• Family Favorite: Watch your family’s faces light up as they bite into these homemade versions that taste just like their drive-through favorites.
• Teenager Approved: Even picky eaters and teenagers love this recipe – one teenager even asked for the recipe to make at college.
• Surprisingly Simple: The recipe is easy to follow, and the cheese sauce, although seemingly complicated, is straightforward to make.
• Customizable: Add your twists like red onion, bacon, cayenne pepper, or fresh tomato slices to suit your taste preferences.
• Flexible and Make-Ahead: Components like Arby’s sauce and cheese sauce can be made ahead to save time, and leftovers can be easily reheated for future meals.
• Nostalgic Comfort: Recreate a favorite restaurant dish at home, providing nostalgia and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients for Savory Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich

Arby’s Style Sauce

• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ cup ketchup
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Homemade Cheese Sauce

• 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Sandwich Assembly

• 4 onion hamburger buns
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 pound thinly sliced deli roast beef

How to Make Savory Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich

Step 1: Make the Arby’s Sauce

Combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl and whisk until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 2: Start the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to make a roux.

Step 3: Finish the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in the milk to prevent lumps. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Warm the Beef Broth

Heat the beef broth in a large skillet over medium heat until it simmers gently, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Warm the Roast Beef

Separate roast beef slices and add them individually to simmering broth to prevent sticking. Warm for 1-2 minutes to heat and flavor them without cooking.

Step 6: Prepare the Buns

Cut the onion buns in half and generously spread homemade Arby’s sauce on the bottom half of each bun.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Using tongs, transfer the warmed roast beef from the broth onto each sauced bun bottom. Drizzle warm cheese sauce over the beef.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Place the other bun half on top and serve immediately while the cheese sauce is still warm and gooey.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made a batch of these copycat Arby’s beef and cheddar sandwiches, they are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese sauce is still warm and creamy. Be sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before assembling the sandwiches. While the components can be made ahead, such as preparing the Arby’s sauce in advance or making the cheese sauce a day ahead and gently reheating, the sandwiches themselves are best eaten fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Leftover roast beef can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheated in broth when you’re ready to enjoy another sandwich. Additionally, any extra cheese sauce can be refrigerated and used on other sandwiches or as a dipping sauce for fries. These sandwiches are quite versatile and can be customized with additional toppings like sliced red onions, crispy bacon, or fresh tomato slices. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can continue to enjoy these homemade Arby’s-inspired sandwiches with the same delicious flavors even after the initial preparation.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions for the copycat Arby’s beef and cheddar recipe, there are a few options you can consider. For the cheese sauce, if you prefer a different type of cheese or have a different cheese on hand, you can swap out the sharp cheddar for another type like American cheese for a milder flavor or pepper jack for some heat. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary, so adjust accordingly.

In terms of the deli roast beef, you can substitute it with thinly sliced homemade or store-bought roast beef, pastrami, or even turkey if you prefer a different protein. These variations can bring their own unique flavors to the sandwich while still maintaining that hearty and savory element. Just ensure that the meat is thinly sliced to maintain the sandwich’s texture and ease of eating.

For the sauce, if you’re looking to customize the flavor profile, you can experiment with different spices and seasonings to tailor it to your preference. Adding a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky note or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat can elevate the sauce’s taste profile while still keeping it reminiscent of the original Arby’s sauce. Feel free to play around with the ingredient ratios to suit your taste buds and make the sandwich your own.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving these copycat Arby’s beef and cheddar sandwiches, consider setting up a DIY sandwich bar for a casual gathering with friends or family. Lay out the warm roast beef, creamy cheese sauce, Arby’s sauce, and toasted onion buns, along with various toppings like crispy bacon, sliced red onions, fresh tomato slices, and pickles. Let everyone build their own sandwich just the way they like it, adding a personal touch to the experience.

To take these sandwiches to the next level for a cozy night in, pair them with a side of homemade onion rings or crispy french fries. Create a nostalgic fast food meal at home by serving the sandwiches on checkered paper-lined trays, along with a chilled soda or iced tea. Don’t forget to have some extra Arby’s sauce on the side for dipping fries or drizzling over the sandwiches for an authentic touch. Enjoy the comfort of a classic fast food favorite in the comfort of your own home!

FAQs for Savory Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce a day ahead and gently rewarm it when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches. You may need to whisk in a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.

Can I customize these sandwiches with additional toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add sliced red onion for extra crunch, crispy bacon for indulgence, or even some sliced fresh tomatoes during the summer. You can also spice up the cheese sauce with cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat.

How should I store leftover components of the sandwiches?

You can store the Arby’s sauce in the fridge to develop flavor, keep leftover roast beef in the fridge for a few days, and save any extra cheese sauce in the refrigerator. Simply reheat the components as needed and assemble fresh sandwiches for the best taste.

What is the best way to serve these copycat Arby’s beef and cheddar sandwiches?

Serve the sandwiches immediately while the cheese sauce is warm and creamy. Pair them with crispy french fries or onion rings for the full fast food experience. To add a touch of authenticity, consider serving them with frozen curly fries baked in the oven and a cold soda or iced tea on the side.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making your own Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwiches at home is a rewarding experience that brings the taste of a beloved fast food favorite straight to your kitchen. The satisfaction of creating a meal that rivals the original, using fresher ingredients and tailor-made to your preferences, is truly unbeatable. With a little practice and patience, you’ll soon master the art of crafting these delicious sandwiches, ensuring that each bite is as delightful as the last.

So next time you’re craving that iconic combination of tender roast beef, creamy cheese sauce, and tangy signature flavors, look no further than this Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar recipe. Whether you’re serving them up for a casual family lunch or impressing guests with a homemade fast food feast, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of cooking and savoring these delightful creations, knowing that you’ve unlocked the secret to a homemade version that’s even better than the drive-through original.