Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar

Tender roast beef combined with rich cheddar cheese sauce and tangy Arby's-style sauce on a soft onion bun makes this sandwich a perfect treat for any meal. This recipe captures all the beloved flavors of the classic Arby's Beef and Cheddar, and it's surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you need a quick dinner or want to indulge in restaurant-style food in your own kitchen, this sandwich delivers satisfaction.

I created this recipe after a long road trip when cravings for Arby's hit hard. Now my family asks for it on busy weeknights for a taste of nostalgia.

Ingredients

• Ketchup: For the Arby's sauce base, delivering a touch of sweetness
• Light brown sugar: To create the signature tangy-sweet profile of the sauce
• Apple cider vinegar: To balance the flavors with acidity
• Worcestershire sauce: For added depth in the tangy dressing
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Essential for seasoning and aroma
• Unsalted butter and all-purpose flour: For the cheese sauce to achieve a creamy texture
• Whole milk: To serve as the base for the smooth cheddar cheese sauce
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: For that bold cheese flavor
• Low sodium beef broth: To gently heat and flavor the roast beef
• Thinly sliced deli roast beef: For ease and tenderness
• Onion hamburger buns: For the iconic Arby's sandwich experience

How to Make Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar

Prepare the Arby's Sauce:

In a small mixing bowl, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly and set aside.

Cook the Cheese Sauce:

Place a small saucepan on medium heat and melt the butter, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute, stirring consistently to create a roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken for about five minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Warm the Roast Beef:

In a large skillet, heat the beef broth over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Separate the roast beef slices and add them individually to the broth to prevent clumping. Warm the slices for one to two minutes, then transfer them to a plate using tongs.

Assemble the Sandwich:

Spread a generous layer of the Arby's sauce on the bottom half of each onion hamburger bun. Pile warm slices of roast beef on top, followed by a ladle of cheese sauce. Place the top half of the bun gently over the filling. Serve the sandwiches immediately while warm.

My favorite part of this recipe is the cheddar sauce—it's so rich that it feels indulgent yet simple to make. Preparing it with my mother while she shared stories of road trips made the first attempt even more enjoyable.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the cheese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. Avoid preassembling the sandwiches ahead of time, as the buns can become soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If onion buns aren't available, any soft, slightly sweet burger buns will work well. You can swap sharp cheddar cheese for mild cheddar or a cheese blend if necessary. Turkey or chicken deli meat can replace roast beef for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the sandwich with seasoned curly fries or crispy potato wedges for a complete fast-food-inspired meal. Sweet tea or lemonade makes an excellent beverage to complement the rich and tangy flavors.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of beef is best for this sandwich?

For the best results, use thinly sliced deli roast beef to match the traditional texture and flavor profile of the sandwich.

→ Can I use pre-made cheese sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought cheese sauce to save time, but making it from scratch ensures a richer, fresher taste.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reassemble just before serving.

→ Can I substitute the onion bun?

Absolutely! Though onion buns add extra flavor, you can substitute with brioche, sesame seed, or plain buns as desired.

→ What pairs well with this sandwich?

Serve it with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.