Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar

Sink your teeth into a homemade version of the classic Arby's Beef Cheddar sandwich made right in your kitchen. Thin, tender roast beef gets warmed gently in beefy broth then tucked into a pillowy onion bun with a cozy layer of cheddar cheese sauce and signature tangy dressing. If you crave drive-thru favorites but want real-deal flavor and comfort food nostalgia, this recipe delivers big time.

I first made these sandwiches on a Friday night when my kids were begging for takeout but the fridge was full of leftovers. Now this is our go-to fix for a comforting fast-food taste at home.

Ingredients

• Ketchup: adds the sweet tomato base for the homemade tangy sauce choose one with minimal added corn syrup for best taste
• Light brown sugar: brings deep sweetness and color seek soft, fresh brown sugar for the best blend
• Apple cider vinegar: brightens the flavor with subtle fruitiness look for raw unfiltered versions for complex taste
• Worcestershire sauce: gives savory umami depth choose a good-quality bottle without too much extra sugar
• Garlic powder and onion powder: ensure that signature Arby’s bite check freshness so your seasonings pop
• Unsalted butter: provides rich flavor and control over saltiness in the cheese sauce always check for fresh butter for the creamiest result
• All-purpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce use a spoon to stir flour and shake off any lumps
• Whole milk: creates a silky sauce reach for the freshest milk possible for best texture
• Sharp cheddar cheese: brings the familiar tangy cheesy punch shred your cheese from a block for smooth melting
• Low sodium beef broth: gently warms the roast beef for maximum juiciness use a good-tasting broth since you’ll taste it in the meat
• Deli roast beef slices: should be very thin so they soak up flavor always check for freshness and quality at your deli counter
• Onion hamburger buns: add subtle sweetness and softness pick the freshest buns available and check that they are not too dense

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make 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 the bowl aside while you prepare the cheese sauce so flavors meld and sugars dissolve fully.

Prepare Cheddar Cheese Sauce:

In a small saucepan melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir constantly for about one minute until it loses its raw scent and resembles a pale paste. Slowly pour in whole milk whisking to prevent lumps. Increase the heat so the mixture just starts to simmer then stir frequently for about five minutes until thickened slightly. Remove the pan from the heat and add shredded cheddar cheese whisking steadily until the sauce is smooth and glossy.

Warm Roast Beef:

In a large skillet bring low sodium beef broth to a simmer over medium heat. To prevent the slices from sticking together gently separate the roast beef and add individual pieces into the broth. Allow the meat to warm for one to two minutes the beef should be heated through but not cooked any further. Scoop slices out carefully with tongs letting extra broth drip off so your sandwich stays sturdy.

Assemble Sandwiches:

Spread a generous amount of Arby’s sauce on the bottom half of each onion bun. Layer warm roast beef slices over the sauce then pour spoonfuls of fresh cheddar cheese sauce on top. Cap with the top bun and press gently before serving immediately so everything stays flavorful and gooey.

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My personal favorite part is the cheddar cheese sauce I could eat it with a spoon When my sister tried my homemade version she announced it was even better than the real thing and now requests it each birthday

Storage tips

If you have leftover roast beef or sauce refrigerate separately in airtight containers. Cheese sauce will thicken as it cools so reheat over low heat while whisking in a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture. Sandwiches taste their best fresh but can be wrapped and warmed gently in the oven if needed the next day.

Ingredient substitutions

If you cannot find sharp cheddar try a combo of mild cheddar and a handful of Monterey Jack for meltiness. Any soft sandwich roll can stand in for onion buns though classic onion buns really do give that signature flavor. You can swap in smoked provolone or Swiss for a fun twist on the cheese sauce.

Serving suggestions

Pile up curly fries mozzarella sticks or even roasted veggies to create your own fast food tray at home. Add crunchy pickles and serve with iced tea or your favorite soda for a proper diner vibe. For a lighter meal serve the sandwich with a big green salad.

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Cultural and historical context

The original Arby’s Beef ‘n Cheddar became an icon of American fast food in the nineteen seventies. It was rumored to be inspired by deli sandwiches popular in Midwest diners then given a signature sweet saucy twist. Making your own version lets you control the ingredients and bring nostalgic flavor right into your own kitchen.

Common Queries

→ How do you keep the cheddar sauce smooth and creamy?

Gradually whisk in the milk while stirring the butter and flour mixture, and add cheese off heat to avoid curdling for a velvety sauce.

→ What is the best way to warm roast beef without it drying out?

Briefly heat the sliced roast beef in simmering beef broth for 1-2 minutes. This keeps it juicy and tender.

→ Can I substitute the onion bun?

Yes, any soft hamburger bun can be used, but onion buns deliver the authentic flavor and hint of sweetness.

→ What accompaniments pair well with this sandwich?

Classic sides like curly fries, mozzarella sticks, or even jalapeño poppers complement the rich flavors perfectly.

→ Can the cheese sauce be made ahead?

Yes, but gently reheat it over low heat and stir well, as it may separate when cooled and reheated but remains delicious.