Arby's Classic Beef 'n Cheddar features tender, thinly sliced roast beef piled high on a toasted sesame seed sandwich bun, layered with melted cheddar cheese sauce and zesty red onions, delivering a savory and satisfying flavor experience.
Equipments
- Slicer (meat slicer)
- Oven or roaster
- Sauce pot or cheese warmer
- Tongs
- Sandwich bun toaster or grill
- Ladle or spoon (for cheese sauce)
- Knife (for onions)
- Cutting board
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- 2 lbs thinly sliced roast beef
- 4 sesame seed sandwich buns
- 1 cup cheddar cheese sauce
- 1/2 cup red onions
- Butter (for toasting buns)
- Salt
- Pepper
Using thinly sliced roast beef is crucial to replicate the authentic texture and flavor of Arby's Classic Beef 'n Cheddar. Fresh red onions add a zesty bite that balances the richness of the cheddar cheese sauce, so slice them thinly for optimal taste. Toasting the sesame seed sandwich buns with butter enhances the flavor and prevents sogginess from the cheese sauce. Ensure the cheddar cheese sauce is kept warm and smooth in a sauce pot or cheese warmer for easy spreading. Your homemade Arby's Classic Beef 'n Cheddar from the copycat menu will deliver the same savory and satisfying experience as the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven or roaster to warm the roast beef.
- Thinly slice roast beef using a meat slicer.
- Warm roast beef slices in oven or roaster.
- Slice red onions on a cutting board with a knife.
- Heat cheddar cheese sauce in sauce pot or cheese warmer.
- Slice sandwich buns and lightly butter the insides.
- Toast buns on a sandwich bun toaster or grill until golden.
- Place bottom bun on serving tray or plate.
- Layer warmed roast beef onto the bun using tongs.
- Ladle or spoon hot cheddar cheese sauce over roast beef.
- Add sliced red onions on top.
- Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Cap with the top toasted bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Arby's Classic Beef 'n Cheddar copycat sandwiches are made with thinly sliced roast beef, melted cheddar cheese sauce, and zesty red onions on toasted sesame seed buns. If thinly sliced roast beef is unavailable, you can substitute with sliced deli roast beef or thinly sliced steak cooked to your preference. Cheddar cheese sauce can be replaced with a combination of melted cheddar cheese and a bit of milk to create a creamy texture. When toasting buns, butter adds richness, but olive oil or margarine work well as alternatives. Make sure to use a sharp knife to finely slice the red onions for the most balanced flavor in your sandwich.
Tips
Ensure your roast beef is sliced thinly and evenly using a sharp meat slicer to maintain tenderness and proper layering. When warming the roast beef, avoid overheating in the oven or roaster to prevent drying out the meat. Buttering the sandwich buns lightly before toasting helps achieve a golden, crispy texture without sogginess. Use a ladle or spoon to evenly distribute the hot cheddar cheese sauce over the beef for consistent flavor in every bite.
Nutritions
Arby's Classic Beef 'n Cheddar provides a rich source of protein primarily from the tender roast beef, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. The cheddar cheese sauce contributes calcium and fat, which supply essential nutrients and energy, while the sesame seed bun adds carbohydrates for quick energy. Red onions offer antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamin C, enhancing immune function and adding a subtle nutrient boost. Your meal balances savory flavors with nutritional elements, though portion control is advised due to the cheese sauce's fat content.
Storage
Store leftover roast beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep the cheddar cheese sauce in a sealed jar or container and refrigerate for up to 5 days, reheating gently on the stove to prevent separation. You can wrap sandwich buns tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for 1-2 days or freeze for up to 3 months to preserve texture.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap cheddar cheese sauce with provolone or Swiss cheese melted directly on the roast beef for a different cheesy texture and flavor. Instead of red onions, caramelizing them gently in butter enhances their sweetness and complements the savory beef. You can also grill the sandwich fully in a panini press, which crisps the bun and melds the layers, creating a warm, gooey result. Experiment with adding a smear of horseradish sauce or a few pickles to introduce a tangy kick that balances the richness.
Allergies
Arby's Classic Beef 'n Cheddar contains sesame seeds in the sandwich buns, which are a common allergen for some individuals. The cheddar cheese sauce made from dairy might cause issues for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. You should be cautious if you have sensitivities to sesame, dairy, or onions, as these ingredients may trigger allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
Arby's Classic Beef 'n Cheddar sandwiches offer a savory blend of tender, slow-roasted roast beef paired with rich cheddar cheese sauce and zesty Arby's sauce, all served on a toasted onion roll. Fans appreciate the unique flavor combination and satisfying texture that create a distinct taste experience not commonly found in other fast-food chains. Recreating the copycat version at home allows you to customize ingredients for freshness and adjust flavors to your preference, providing a cost-effective way to enjoy this iconic menu item. Your homemade Beef 'n Cheddar can capture the essence of Arby's quality while delivering personalized taste and convenience.