Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar

This tender roast beef and cheddar sandwich brings the iconic flavors of Arby's home, complete with a homemade tangy sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly warm roast beef on a soft onion bun. Perfect for a satisfying dinner or indulgent lunch, it’s a favorite among sandwich lovers.

The first time I made this, my family couldn’t believe it wasn’t takeout. Now, it’s a staple when we’re craving comfort food sandwiches that feel extra special.

Ingredients

• Arby's sauce:
• ½ cup ketchup: For a sweet and tangy base
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar: Packed to add balanced sweetness
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: For a touch of acidity
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: To deepen the earthy flavors
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For a savory hint
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: To enhance the sauce’s depth
• Cheese sauce:
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: As the base for the roux
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce
• 1 cup whole milk: Creating a velvety smooth texture
• 6 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For bold, rich flavor
• Sandwich assembly:
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth: To keep the roast beef tender
• 1 pound thinly sliced deli roast beef: The star of the sandwich
• 4 onion hamburger buns: For a soft and flavorful foundation

How To Make Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar

Prepare the Arby's sauce:

Whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small mixing bowl until smooth. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the recipe.

Make the cheddar cheese sauce:

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour evenly into the butter, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste of the flour. Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted into a creamy sauce.

Warm the roast beef:

In a large skillet, bring beef broth to a simmer over medium heat. Separate the deli roast beef slices, adding them one at a time to the simmering broth to prevent clumping. Let the beef warm gently for 1-2 minutes before transferring to a plate, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful.

Assemble the sandwiches:

Toast the onion hamburger buns lightly if desired. Spread a layer of homemade Arby’s sauce on the bottom half of each bun, pile warm roast beef slices high, drizzle with the smooth cheddar cheese sauce, and top with the remaining half of the bun.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the cheddar sauce. Its rich and creamy texture elevated the sandwich game in my family dinners. My kids always remind me to make extra because they love dipping fries in it too.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have sharp cheddar cheese, mild cheddar or Monterey Jack are excellent alternatives for the cheese sauce. For a spicier take, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the Arby’s sauce. Whole wheat buns can be swapped in for a healthier option without compromising flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the sandwich components separately to maintain freshness. Keep the sauce and cheese in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Rewarm the sauce and cheese on low heat, whisking until smooth before using.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this savory sandwich with crispy fries, potato chips, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal experience. For a hearty winter dinner, serve with some tomato soup on the side.

Whether for a casual dinner with family or when hosting friends, this Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar is sure to be a hit. Its balance of hearty roast beef, creamy cheese, and tangy sauce ensures it will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Take your sandwich game up a notch with this quick, easy, and delicious recipe that’s destined to become a new favorite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheddar cheese?

Yes, but shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents, which can affect the sauce's texture. Freshly shredded cheese works best for a smoother consistency.

→ Can I substitute the onion buns?

Absolutely! You can use regular hamburger buns, brioche, or any soft roll of your choice. Onion buns add a unique flavor, but alternatives work well too.

→ How do I prevent the beef from drying out?

Simmer the beef slices in beef broth for only 1-2 minutes to warm them through without overcooking. This keeps the meat moist and tender.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free flour for the cheese sauce and gluten-free buns. Ensure other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free as well.

→ What can I serve with these sandwiches?

Pair with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal. A side of pickles or chips adds a nice crunch, too.