There’s something magical about that first bite of an Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwich — the way the warm, melted cheddar sauce cascades over tender sliced beef, creating comfort in every mouthful.
I still remember my college days when Stephen and I would split one of these sandwiches during late-night study sessions, savoring that perfect balance of savory beef and creamy cheese. Fast forward fifteen years, and I found myself craving that nostalgic flavor but wanting something I could make at home with better ingredients and more control over what goes into it.
That’s exactly what SecondRecipes.com is all about — taking those beloved comfort foods and giving them a second life in our own kitchens. This homemade version of Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches captures all the satisfaction of the original while allowing you to use quality ingredients and customize it to your family’s preferences. Whether you’re recreating a childhood memory or introducing this classic to a new generation, this recipe delivers that same comforting experience right from your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwich recipe transforms a fast-food favorite into something special you can feel good about serving. Unlike the restaurant version, you control every ingredient, ensuring fresher flavors and better quality throughout. The tender roast beef pairs beautifully with a homemade cheddar sauce that’s incredibly smooth and flavorful — no artificial additives needed.
What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its simplicity and speed. You can have these beef cheddar sandwiches ready in under twenty minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or satisfying weekend lunches. The cheddar sauce comes together effortlessly, and the assembly is straightforward enough for kids to help with.
Additionally, this version offers flexibility that the original doesn’t. You can choose your preferred type of bread, adjust the cheese sauce consistency, and even add extra toppings like crispy onions or fresh herbs. The result is a sandwich that tastes familiar yet feels elevated and personalized.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches at home requires simple, quality ingredients that work together harmoniously. Here’s everything you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Thinly sliced deli roast beef | 1 pound |
| Onion rolls or Kaiser rolls | 4 large rolls |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Whole milk | 1½ cups |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Paprika | ¼ teaspoon |
The key to exceptional beef cheddar sandwiches lies in choosing quality roast beef from your deli counter. Ask for it sliced thin but not paper-thin — you want some substance to each slice. Fresh, sharp cheddar cheese makes a significant difference in the sauce’s flavor profile compared to pre-shredded options.
Substitutions & Variations
This Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwich recipe welcomes creativity and adaptation based on your preferences and dietary needs. For the bread, try brioche buns for extra richness, whole grain rolls for added nutrition, or even pretzel buns for a unique twist. Sourdough bread also works wonderfully and adds a subtle tang that complements the cheese sauce.
Regarding the cheese sauce, you can substitute sharp cheddar with aged white cheddar, mild cheddar, or even a combination of cheddar and Gruyère for complexity. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat milk or even unsweetened almond milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
The roast beef can be swapped for thinly sliced turkey, ham, or even leftover pot roast if you have it on hand. For vegetarian beef cheddar sandwiches, try using seasoned mushroom slices or plant-based deli meat alternatives.
To add extra flavor, consider incorporating caramelized onions, crispy bacon bits, or a spread of horseradish sauce on the bread. These additions create your own signature version while maintaining the essence of the original.
If you’re looking to elevate your sandwich experience, consider experimenting with different types of bread. For a delightful twist, check out this recipe for Cavatappi Noodles that pairs well with your favorite sandwiches.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches at home is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these detailed steps for the best results:
Step 1: Begin by preparing the cheddar sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This creates a roux that will thicken your sauce.
Step 2: Gradually add the milk to the butter-flour mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking while stirring until the mixture thickens noticeably, approximately three to four minutes.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Keep warm over low heat.
Step 4: Warm the roast beef in a large skillet over medium heat for two to three minutes, or heat it in the microwave for thirty to forty seconds. This step ensures your beef cheddar sandwiches are served hot throughout.
Step 5: Slice the rolls in half and lightly toast them if desired. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy when the sauce is added.
Step 6: Assemble the sandwiches by placing the warmed roast beef on the bottom half of each roll. Generously ladle the warm cheddar sauce over the beef, allowing it to flow over the edges slightly. Top with the other half of the roll and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Success
Creating restaurant-quality Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches at home requires attention to a few key details that make all the difference. First, always grate your own cheddar cheese rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting and create a grainy sauce texture.
Temperature control is crucial for the perfect cheese sauce. Keep the heat at medium or lower when making the roux and adding the milk. High heat can cause the sauce to break or become lumpy. If your sauce does develop lumps, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
For the most authentic beef cheddar sandwiches, warm your serving plates in a low oven for a few minutes before plating. This keeps everything hot longer and prevents the cheese sauce from cooling too quickly. Additionally, don’t overload the sandwiches with beef — about four ounces per sandwich provides the perfect meat-to-sauce ratio.
If you’re making these sandwiches for a crowd, keep the cheese sauce warm in a slow cooker set to low heat, stirring occasionally. This prevents it from breaking while maintaining the ideal serving temperature.
To ensure your homemade sandwiches are restaurant-quality, mastering the cheese sauce is essential. For a hearty meal that complements your sandwiches, try this Chicken and Ham Soup Recipe: Hearty, Delicious, and Easy to Make.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can store components separately for later use. The cheddar sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The roast beef can be refrigerated for up to four days.
To reheat the cheese sauce, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, whisking frequently. Add a tablespoon or two of milk if the sauce has thickened too much during storage. Alternatively, microwave the sauce in thirty-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth and hot.
For the beef, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for one to two minutes, or microwave it briefly. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the meat tough and dry.
Never store assembled beef cheddar sandwiches, as the bread will become soggy. Instead, store components separately and assemble fresh sandwiches when ready to serve.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These hearty Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches pair wonderfully with classic sides that complement their rich, savory flavors. Crispy French fries or seasoned potato wedges create the traditional fast-food experience at home. For a lighter option, serve them alongside a crisp coleslaw or mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Onion rings make an excellent companion, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce. Pickle spears or pickled vegetables add a bright, acidic element that cuts through the richness of the beef cheddar sandwiches.
For a complete meal, consider serving these sandwiches with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots, or a cup of tomato soup for dipping. The combination creates a comforting, well-rounded dinner that satisfies without being overly heavy.
These sandwiches are perfect for pairing with classic sides that enhance their rich flavors. Consider serving them with a bowl of Hearty Chicken and Rice Soup for a satisfying meal.
FAQs
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheddar sauce up to three days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently over low heat, adding a little milk to restore the proper consistency.
What’s the best type of roast beef to use?
Choose high-quality deli roast beef that’s sliced thin but not paper-thin. Top round or eye round roast beef works best for Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches due to their tender texture and mild flavor.
Can I freeze the leftover cheese sauce?
Cheese sauces don’t freeze well as they tend to separate when thawed. It’s better to make smaller batches and use the sauce within three days of preparation.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Keep the heat low when melting the cheese and remove the pan from heat before adding the cheese. Stir constantly and use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties.
Can I use different types of bread for these sandwiches?
Absolutely! While onion rolls are traditional, Kaiser rolls, brioche buns, or even sourdough bread work well. Choose a bread that can hold up to the sauce without becoming too soggy.
Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches are a beloved fast-food item known for their tender roast beef and creamy cheddar sauce. This iconic sandwich has become a staple in American cuisine, often enjoyed for its comforting flavors and quick preparation.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 1,240mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 32g |
These homemade Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches provide a satisfying amount of protein while delivering the comfort food experience you crave. The nutrition profile reflects a hearty meal that can easily serve as lunch or dinner, especially when paired with a side salad or vegetables to round out the nutritional balance.
Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 1 pound thinly sliced deli roast beef
- 4 large onion rolls or Kaiser rolls
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
- Step 2: Gradually add the milk to the butter-flour mixture, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about three to four minutes.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and add the cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Warm the roast beef in a skillet over medium heat for two to three minutes.
- Step 5: Slice the rolls in half and lightly toast them if desired.
- Step 6: Assemble the sandwiches by placing the roast beef on the bottom half of each roll, ladling the cheddar sauce over the beef, and topping with the other half of the roll.
