Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

This homemade version of the classic Arby's Beef and Cheddar sandwich offers all the nostalgic flavors of the fast food favorite while using simple pantry ingredients and easy techniques. Thinly sliced roast beef gently simmers in savory beef broth to enhance its juiciness and flavor before being stacked on a soft onion bun. The sandwich is then smothered in a creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce and topped with a tangy, sweet, and zesty homemade Arbys-inspired sauce. It makes a satisfying weeknight dinner or a hit at parties when paired with curly fries.

I first made this recipe for a backyard movie night and it quickly became a requested staple for birthdays and football parties. The homemade sauce really elevates the sandwich and my family fights over the extra cheese sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

• Ketchup: which provides the signature tangy tomato base for the Arbys sauce choose one without corn syrup for better flavor
• Light brown sugar: balances the tartness with mellow sweetness pack it firmly for accurate measuring
• Apple cider vinegar: adds bright acidity for sharpness an unfiltered type provides extra depth
• Worcestershire sauce: gives a savory umami hit just a small splash enhances the sauce
• Garlic powder and onion powder: round out the flavors use fresh spices for maximum vibrancy
• Unsalted butter: starts the cheese sauce providing a rich creamy base pick a high quality stick
• All purpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce opt for a neutral flavor to avoid altering taste
• Whole milk: keeps the cheese sauce luscious skip low fat for richness and smoothness
• Sharp cheddar cheese: brings tang and meltiness shred a block yourself for a glossy sauce
• Low sodium beef broth: gently warms the roast beef keeping salt in check choose a flavorful variety
• Deli roast beef: should be thinly sliced and fresh look for visible marbling for juiciness
• Onion hamburger buns: add sweet and savory notes selecting fresh bakery buns offers best texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Arbys Sauce:

In a small bowl combine ketchup brown sugar apple cider vinegar Worcestershire sauce garlic powder and onion powder Whisk everything together until smooth and set aside to let the flavors meld

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

In a small saucepan over medium heat melt unsalted butter until it just foams Stir in the flour and keep stirring constantly for one minute to cook out the raw flour taste Slowly add the milk a little at a time while whisking to avoid lumps After all the milk is added bring the mixture to a gentle simmer whisking often and let it bubble for about five minutes until thickened Remove from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar until the sauce is fully melted glossy and smooth Keep warm until ready to assemble

Warm the Roast Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer for about five minutes Separate the roast beef slices and add them one at a time to the broth This allows the beef to soak up flavor evenly and prevents clumping Heat the beef for one to two minutes until just warmed through

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Place the onion buns open on a clean surface and spread a generous layer of the homemade Arbys sauce on the bottom half Pile on a heap of warm roast beef Spoon the hot cheese sauce lavishly over the meat and cap with the top bun Serve immediately to enjoy the sandwiches while warm gooey and melty

Pin

My favorite part is always the sharp cheddar cheese sauce Every time I prepare this sandwich my kids beg for extra sauce to dip curly fries or even veggies The gooey drips bring back so many laughs from family camping trips and make every meal a little celebration

Storage Tips

This sandwich is best eaten fresh but leftover roast beef and sauces store well in the refrigerator for up to two days Keep the cheese sauce in an airtight container and reheat gently over low heat stirring constantly to keep it smooth Avoid freezing the assembled sandwich as the bun becomes soggy and the cheese sauce tends to separate when frozen

Ingredient Substitutions

If onion hamburger buns are not available plain hamburger buns or brioche buns will work though you will miss the classic Arbys flavor For the cheese sauce Swiss or mild cheddar can be swapped with sharp cheddar to create a gentler taste Homemade roast beef is wonderful but deli sliced roast beef is just as good In a pinch yellow mustard combined with extra brown sugar and vinegar can substitute the Arbys sauce creating a similar sweet tangy profile

Serving Suggestions

Pair these sandwiches with curly fries mozzarella sticks or crispy pickles to complete that fast food experience Cut them into halves or quarters to make party platters The sandwich also pairs nicely with coleslaw crisp apple salad or any refreshing tangy side to balance the rich flavors

Cultural and Historical Context

The Arbys Beef and Cheddar sandwich is a modern fast food icon famous for its sweet tangy sauce and creamy melted cheese topping It was created as a flavorful upgrade from a simple roast beef sandwich offering fans extra richness and excitement Home cooks often recreate it for football games and backyard gatherings where it delivers a generous dose of nostalgia and fun

Pro Tips

• Always warm the roast beef gently in simmering broth to keep it tender and juicy
• Shred cheddar cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded for the smoothest sauce
• Taste your Arbys sauce before assembling and adjust sweetness or tanginess to your preference

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the roast beef tender?

Gently warm thin slices of roast beef in simmering beef broth for 1-2 minutes to keep the meat juicy and prevent overcooking.

→ Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?

Yes, mild cheddar, Colby, or American cheese can be used for a smoother, less tangy cheese sauce if preferred.

→ What's the best way to serve this sandwich?

Assemble on toasted onion buns with warm cheese sauce poured over the beef. Serve alongside curly fries or mozzarella sticks for a classic touch.

→ How can I make the cheese sauce smooth and creamy?

Whisk continuously while adding milk to the butter-flour roux and remove from heat before stirring in shredded cheese to avoid lumps or clumping.

→ Can I prepare anything ahead of time?

The tangy sauce can be mixed in advance, but assemble sandwiches just before serving to keep the cheese sauce creamy and prevent soggy buns.

→ Which buns work best for this sandwich?

Onion hamburger buns offer the ideal sweet and savory flavor, but plain sandwich rolls or Kaiser buns also complement the layers nicely.