Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 11, 2025

Updated:

March 11, 2025

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Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many fast-food lovers. They bring back memories of late-night cravings or quick lunch stops. While nothing beats the original, making your own version at home offers a fun and tasty challenge! Imagine gooey cheese on tender, flavorful beef, all nestled inside a soft, warm bun—sounds delicious, right? This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to recreate that iconic taste without going through the drive-thru. Whether you’re a fan of Arby’s or just curious about making a cheesey beef sandwich, I’m here to guide you through each step. We’ll share tips and ticks, along with my personal touches to give you that satisfying bite from the comfort of your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and let’s take on this savory adventure together with these Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches!

Jump to:

Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing the Beef
Making the Cheddar Sauce
Assembling the Sandwiches
Air Fryer (or Oven) Method for Extra Crispiness
For the Air Fryer:
For the Oven:
Tips for Perfect Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches
Serving Suggestions
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Conclusion
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📖 Recipe Card

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need for your Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches. Here’s a list to help you gather the essentials:

For the Beef:
1 lb. roast beef (thinly sliced)
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheddar Sauce:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
For the Sandwich Assembly:
4 onion rolls or sesame seed buns
¼ cup Arby’s special sauce (or homemade barbecue sauce)

These ingredients are easy to find at the grocery store, and most of them may already be in your kitchen. Getting everything ready will set you up for success!

Preparing the Beef

Now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s focus on the star of the show: the beef! Start by heating a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced roast beef, then pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. These flavors soak into the meat, making it tender and delicious.

As the beef cooks, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir it gently and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The goal is to combine everything and allow the flavors to blend nicely. Once it’s cooked, remove it from the heat, and let it rest for a moment.

Moving on to the next component, which is crucial for bringing that classic Arby’s flavor home!

Making the Cheddar Sauce

Who can resist a rich and creamy cheddar sauce? That’s what makes these Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches so enticing! In a small saucepan, melt the tablespoon of butter over low heat. Adding the flour to make a roux is your first step. Stir it well until it forms a paste—this usually takes about a minute.

Next, gradually pour in the milk while whisking. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens; this can take about 3 to 5 minutes. As it begins to thicken, slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly. You’ll want it to melt smoothly into the sauce—be patient! Finally, sprinkle in paprika and adjust the salt to taste. Now your cheddar sauce is ready to take these sandwiches to the next level!

Assembling the Sandwiches

Now for the fun part: assembling the sandwiches! Grab your onion rolls or sesame seed buns. Start by slicing them in half if they’re not pre-sliced. Spread a generous amount of Arby’s special sauce or your homemade barbecue sauce on the bottom half of each bun.

Next, pile on the tender beef you just cooked. Don’t be shy—load it up! Finally, drizzle your creamy cheddar sauce over the beef. The more cheese, the better, right?

Once everything is stacked, place the top half of the bun over the cheese and beef. You’ll have a sandwich that looks as good as it tastes.

Air Fryer (or Oven) Method for Extra Crispiness

If you love a bit of crunch, consider giving your sandwiches a crispy finish. This method is a game-changer! After assembling your sandwiches, you can use an air fryer or bake them in the oven.

For the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (about 175°C).
Place the sandwiches in the basket carefully to avoid spilling any toppings.
Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the buns are golden brown and crispy.

For the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 175°C) as well.
Place the sandwiches on a lined baking sheet.
Bake for around 10 minutes, or until the tops are nicely crisp.

This extra step adds a delightful crunch, which is simply divine!

Tips for Perfect Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches

Choose Quality Beef: Thinly sliced roast beef works best for tenderness. You can ask your deli to slice it for you, or even buy pre-sliced.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rolls and high-quality cheese enhance the overall taste. Freshness truly makes a difference.
Feel Free to Customize: Don’t hesitate to add extras like sautéed onions, jalapeños, or even a slice of tomato for a fresh twist.
Make Ahead: You can prepare everything ahead of time. Store the beef and cheddar sauce separately in the fridge, then just assemble when you’re ready to eat!

Serving Suggestions

These Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches are delightful on their own, but you can also add some tasty sides. Here are a few ideas:

Curly Fries: Crispy, seasoned curly fries perfectly complement these sandwiches.
Coleslaw: The creaminess of coleslaw pairs nicely with beef. Plus, it adds a refreshing crunch.
Pickles: A side of pickles creates an extra zesty bite that balances the richness of the sandwich.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly is essential. Keep the beef and cheese sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Consume within 3 days to maintain freshness.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the beef in the microwave and warm the cheddar sauce gently on the stove. Assembling them fresh ensures that each bite is just as delicious as the first!

Conclusion

Making Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Sandwiches at home is not just about flavor; it’s also about the experience and memories that come along with it. Whether you’re enjoying these sandwiches during a cozy night in or sharing them with friends at a gathering, they are sure to impress. Plus, nothing beats a homemade touch when it comes to comfort food. So next time you’re craving that signature taste, give this recipe a try. You might just prefer your homemade version over the original! Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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