Cheesy Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Copycat You’ll Crave

Why Make This Copycat Sandwich?

Get That Arby’s Taste Home

There’s something uniquely satisfying about an Arby’s roast beef sandwich, especially the one drenched in that glorious, gooey cheddar cheese sauce. The good news is, you don’t need to drive to a fast-food joint to enjoy this classic. Our Arby’s copycat recipe lets you bring that distinct taste right into your own kitchen. Imagine the aroma of savory roast beef and rich cheese filling your home, creating an irresistible invitation to a comforting meal. Making it at home means you control the quality of ingredients, ensuring a fresh and wholesome version of your favorite sandwich. It’s also a fantastic way to impress friends and family with your culinary skills, delivering a beloved flavor profile that everyone recognizes and craves.

Many people fondly recall the taste of their favorite fast food, and the Arby’s roast beef sandwich often tops that list for its unique combination of thinly sliced beef and tangy, melty cheese. Recreating this at home isn’t just about saving money; it’s about crafting a meal with love and care, tailored exactly to your preferences. You can adjust the seasoning, the amount of cheese, and even the type of bun to create your personalized masterpiece. This homemade version often tastes even better because it’s fresh, warm, and made with ingredients you trust.

Easy, Quick, and So Delicious

One of the biggest advantages of this Arby’s copycat recipe is how incredibly easy and quick it is to prepare. In a world where time is a precious commodity, a meal that comes together in under 20 minutes is a true gem. Most of the ingredients are readily available at any grocery store, and the steps are straightforward, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a satisfying lunch. You don’t need to be an experienced chef to master this dish; even beginner cooks will find success with our clear, concise instructions.

The deliciousness factor is off the charts. The combination of warm, seasoned roast beef, generously slathered with homemade cheddar cheese sauce, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun, is simply heavenly. It hits all the right notes: savory, tangy, creamy, and wonderfully satisfying. This recipe proves that homemade can be just as convenient and even more flavorful than takeout. Plus, the joy of knowing you made such a crave-worthy meal yourself adds an extra layer of satisfaction. For another quick and easy meal, consider making our chicken Caesar sandwich for lunch.

What You Need: Ingredients List

Key Meats and Cheeses

To recreate the iconic Arby’s taste, selecting the right ingredients is crucial. For the star of our sandwich, you’ll need high-quality, thinly sliced deli roast beef. Look for a brand that is lean and flavorful, as this will form the foundation of your delicious meal. Most delis offer thinly sliced roast beef, which mimics the texture of the original Arby’s sandwich perfectly. You can often find pre-packaged options in the refrigerated section of your supermarket as well. The amount needed will depend on how generous you want your sandwiches to be, but typically, about 1 pound will suffice for four servings.

For the cheese sauce, the classic Arby’s experience calls for a rich, creamy cheddar. While you can use pre-shredded cheddar, shredding your own from a block of sharp or medium cheddar will yield a smoother, more flavorful sauce that melts beautifully. Avoid mild cheddar as it might not provide the tangy kick we’re looking for. Other dairy components for the sauce include milk and perhaps a touch of butter, which contribute to its luxurious creaminess. These core ingredients are essential for capturing that authentic taste that makes this copycat recipe so popular.

Essential Spices and Buns

The magic often lies in the details, and for this sandwich, that means the right spices and buns. A simple blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika can elevate the roast beef, infusing it with a subtle, aromatic flavor. Salt and black pepper are, of course, non-negotiable for seasoning both the beef and the sauce to perfection. For a slight kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or a touch of hot sauce can be added to the cheese sauce, giving it that characteristic zesty punch that Arby’s is known for.

No roast beef sandwich is complete without the perfect bun. Arby’s uses a specific type of sesame seed bun, often described as an ‘onion roll’ texture without the onion. Look for soft, slightly sweet sesame seed buns or onion rolls (without the actual onion pieces if possible) at your local bakery or grocery store. Toasted just right, these buns provide the ideal vehicle for your savory beef and cheesy sauce. They add a crucial textural element, providing a slight crispness that contrasts wonderfully with the tender fillings. Ensure you have all these components ready before you begin, as a well-stocked kitchen makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Preparing the Savory Roast Beef

Warm Beef with Flavor

The key to a truly authentic Arby’s copycat sandwich is perfectly warmed and flavorful roast beef. Unlike a cold deli sandwich, the beef in an Arby’s classic is served warm, enhancing its savory notes and creating a more comforting meal. To achieve this, you’ll want to gently warm your thinly sliced deli roast beef. A great method is to place the beef in a skillet over low to medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water. This not only warms the meat but also keeps it moist and tender, preventing it from drying out. Avoid overheating, as this can make the beef tough. The goal is just to bring it to a pleasant eating temperature.

Another approach involves microwaving the beef briefly in short bursts with a little liquid, or even steaming it quickly. Whichever method you choose, remember that consistency is key; you want the beef to be uniformly warm throughout, not hot in some spots and cold in others. This gentle warming process makes the beef more receptive to absorbing the flavors of any added seasonings, which is our next crucial step. For other delicious main course ideas, check out our main course recipes.

Seasoning the Beef Right

While deli roast beef comes pre-cooked, adding a little extra seasoning can significantly boost its flavor profile and bring it closer to the Arby’s experience. A simple yet effective seasoning blend includes garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of black pepper. You can also add a pinch of paprika for color and a subtle smoky undertone. As the beef warms in the skillet with the broth, sprinkle these seasonings over it, tossing gently to ensure an even coating. The moisture from the broth will help the spices adhere to the meat, infusing every strand with delicious flavor.

Some recipes even suggest a very light touch of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an umami boost, but be cautious not to overpower the natural beef flavor. The aim is to complement, not mask. Taste a small piece of the warmed and seasoned beef to adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This meticulous attention to seasoning transforms simple deli meat into a savory component that truly shines in the sandwich. Properly seasoned, the roast beef will become the tender, juicy heart of your Arby’s copycat, ready to be paired with that irresistible cheese sauce.

Making Your Cheesy Arby’s Sauce

Gentle Heat for Creaminess

The Arby’s cheese sauce is legendary, known for its vibrant orange color, smooth texture, and undeniable tang. Recreating this at home is surprisingly simple, and it all starts with gentle heat to achieve that perfect creaminess. In a small saucepan, begin by melting a tablespoon of butter over low to medium heat. Once melted, whisk in an equal amount of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook this for about a minute, stirring constantly, until it forms a pale, cohesive paste. This roux will act as the thickening agent for your sauce, ensuring it has the right consistency.

Gradually whisk in milk, a little at a time, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring as the sauce begins to thicken. The key here is patience; don’t rush the process with high heat, as this can scorch the milk or cause the cheese to separate. Low and slow is the mantra for a velvety smooth sauce. Once the mixture is thickened to a light, pourable consistency, it’s time for the star ingredient.

Adding the Zesty Kick

With your creamy base ready, it’s time to incorporate the cheddar cheese and those signature zesty flavors. Remove the saucepan from the heat before adding your shredded cheddar cheese. This prevents the cheese from becoming oily or grainy. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce. The residual heat from the saucepan will be enough to melt the cheese beautifully. For an authentic Arby’s look and taste, consider adding a tiny pinch of turmeric or a drop of yellow food coloring to enhance the orange hue.

Now for the zesty kick: a dash of hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or Tabasco), a teaspoon of dry mustard powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper are crucial. These ingredients provide the distinctive tang and subtle heat that makes Arby’s sauce so addictive. A tiny bit of garlic powder and onion powder can also deepen the flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, ensuring a balance of cheesy, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. This homemade creamy baked mac and cheese is another perfect example of how cheese can transform a simple dish.

Assembling Your Perfect Beef Sandwich

Layering Beef onto Buns

With your savory roast beef warmed and perfectly seasoned, and your zesty cheddar cheese sauce bubbling with creamy goodness, it’s time for the exciting part: assembly! The foundation of any great sandwich is the bun. Gently toast your sesame seed buns or onion rolls until they are lightly golden and warm. This adds a crucial textural element, providing a slight crispness that prevents the bun from becoming soggy under the weight of the fillings. Once toasted, arrange the bottom halves of the buns on your serving plates.

Next, carefully layer the warmed roast beef onto each bottom bun. Don’t be shy here; part of the Arby’s experience is a generous pile of thinly sliced beef. The beef should be lightly fluffed to create height and visual appeal. Distribute the beef evenly across the bun, ensuring every bite will be packed with that delicious, savory flavor. The warmth of the beef will subtly melt into the bun, creating a harmonious base for the star of the show.

Drenching with Cheddar Sauce

This is where the magic truly happens. Take your hot, creamy, zesty cheddar cheese sauce and generously drench the piled roast beef. The amount is entirely up to your preference, but for an authentic Arby’s copycat, more is definitely more. Allow the rich, orange sauce to cascade over the beef, seeping into the nooks and crannies. The contrast of the warm beef and the warm, gooey cheese sauce is what makes this sandwich so incredibly satisfying.

Once the beef is sauced to perfection, place the top half of the toasted bun over the cheesy beef. Press down gently to secure everything in place. You might notice some of that glorious cheese sauce oozing out, which is exactly what you want! Serve immediately to enjoy the sandwich at its prime, while the beef is warm, the cheese is melty, and the bun is still perfectly toasted. Each bite should deliver a harmonious blend of savory beef, tangy cheddar, and soft, warm bread, making for an unforgettable homemade fast-food experience.

Serving Your Cheesy Arby’s Meal

Sides to Complement Your Dish

A delicious cheesy Arby’s beef sandwich deserves equally delightful accompaniments to complete the meal. To truly mimic the fast-food experience, consider classic Arby’s sides. Curly fries are an absolute must; you can easily find frozen curly fries at most grocery stores and bake them according to package instructions for a crispy, flavorful addition. Another excellent option is a batch of crispy onion rings, which provide a fantastic textural contrast to the soft sandwich. For a lighter touch, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the beef and cheese, offering a refreshing balance to your plate.

Beyond traditional fast-food sides, think about what complements savory beef and rich cheese. A coleslaw or potato salad can be wonderful additions. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a batch of our crispy cauliflower for a healthier, yet equally satisfying, side. The key is to choose sides that enhance, rather than overwhelm, the star of your meal. The right side dish elevates the entire dining experience, turning a simple sandwich into a complete and satisfying feast.

Fresh Herbs and Pickles

While the sandwich itself is packed with flavor, a few garnishes can elevate its presentation and add an extra layer of taste and freshness. Fresh herbs, such as finely chopped chives or parsley, sprinkled over the top of the cheese sauce can add a bright, aromatic touch and a pop of color. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple garnish to make your homemade Arby’s sandwich look even more appealing.

Perhaps the most quintessential accompaniment to any good roast beef sandwich, however, is a pickle. Dill pickle spears or sliced pickles offer a crisp, tangy counterpoint to the rich beef and cheese. Their acidity helps to cleanse the palate and provides a refreshing break between bites, making the overall meal more enjoyable. Serve them on the side, or even tuck a few slices inside the sandwich for an extra burst of flavor. A simple addition like pickles can make a significant difference in replicating that authentic fast-food vibe right in your home. You can find more cooking inspiration and ideas on our Pinterest page.

Quick Total Time and Servings

Ready in Just 20 Minutes

One of the most appealing aspects of this cheesy Arby’s beef copycat recipe is its incredible efficiency. In today’s busy world, finding time to cook a delicious meal can be a challenge, but this recipe is designed to fit seamlessly into even the most hectic schedules. From start to finish, you can have these mouth-watering sandwiches ready to serve in just 20 minutes. This includes the time it takes to gather your ingredients, warm the beef, prepare the cheese sauce, and assemble the sandwiches. The quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when you need something fast, flavorful, and satisfying, without resorting to takeout.

The speed doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality. Each step is streamlined to maximize efficiency without cutting corners on taste. The thin deli roast beef warms up almost instantly, and the cheese sauce comes together in minutes with a few simple ingredients. This means less time cooking and more time enjoying your delicious homemade meal. It’s a perfect option for those spontaneous cravings or when unexpected guests arrive, allowing you to whip up a impressive meal without any stress.

Enough for Four Happy People

This recipe is perfectly portioned to feed four happy people generously. Using about one pound of thinly sliced roast beef and a standard batch of cheese sauce, you can easily create four substantial sandwiches that will leave everyone feeling satisfied. The serving size is ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends. If you’re cooking for a smaller group, you can easily halve the recipe, or if you’re hosting a larger crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. The scalability of this recipe makes it versatile for various occasions.

The beauty of this recipe is that each serving is robust and fulfilling, ensuring that no one walks away hungry. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a meal that truly satisfies. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a hearty dinner, these cheesy Arby’s beef sandwiches are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Prepare to receive compliments on your culinary prowess, all thanks to a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. For another simple and tasty dish, try our easy honey garlic chicken.

Master Your Cheesy Arby’s Beef

Quality Beef and Buns Matter

To truly master your cheesy Arby’s beef sandwich, paying attention to the quality of your core ingredients is paramount. While convenience is key, sacrificing quality will diminish the authentic taste you’re aiming for. For the roast beef, opt for a premium brand of thinly sliced deli roast beef. The thinner the slices, the more tender and “fast-food authentic” your sandwich will feel. Avoid thick-cut roast beef, as it won’t have the same delicate texture that melts in your mouth.

Equally important are the buns. The signature Arby’s bun is soft, slightly sweet, and often has a hint of onion flavor (without being an overt onion roll). Seek out fresh, high-quality sesame seed buns or soft “sub” style rolls from a local bakery. Tosting them lightly before assembly is crucial as it adds warmth and a slight structural integrity that prevents them from becoming soggy. A good bun provides the perfect counterpoint to the rich fillings, ensuring every bite is a delightful experience. Remember, the foundation of a great sandwich always starts with great ingredients.

Don’t Rush the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is arguably the most defining characteristic of the Arby’s beef sandwich. To achieve that smooth, velvety, and intensely flavorful result, patience is key. Do not rush the process of making the cheese sauce. Begin with a proper roux—melting butter and whisking in flour—and cook it for a minute or two to eliminate any raw flour taste. Then, slowly add your milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a silky base.

When it comes to adding the cheese, remove the saucepan from the heat. This step is critical; adding cheese to boiling liquid can cause it to separate, leading to a grainy or oily sauce. Stir the shredded cheddar in gradually until it’s fully melted and smooth. Finally, incorporate the seasonings like hot sauce, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper to give it that signature zesty kick. Taking your time with the cheese sauce will reward you with a perfectly creamy and tangy component that binds the entire sandwich together, making it truly irresistible. For a deep dive into the history of roast beef, you can visit the Roast Beef Wikipedia page.

Exciting Variations to Try

Cheese Swaps and Add-ins

While cheddar cheese is classic for this Arby’s copycat, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese swaps to find your perfect flavor profile. For a milder, meltier experience, try American cheese or Monterey Jack. If you prefer a sharper, more piquant note, a blend of sharp cheddar and a touch of provolone can be fantastic. You could also introduce a bit of smoked gouda for a smoky depth or pepper jack for a subtle spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the cheesiness to your personal preference.

Beyond cheese, various add-ins can elevate your sandwich. Consider a thinly sliced onion, either raw for a pungent crunch or caramelized for a sweet, savory depth. Pickled jalapeños or banana peppers can introduce a delightful tangy heat. A dollop of horseradish sauce or a spread of creamy coleslaw can also add interesting layers of flavor and texture. Think about what you love in a hearty sandwich and incorporate those elements to make this recipe uniquely yours. Our cheesy chicken and rice casserole also demonstrates how versatile cheese can be.

Different Buns, New Flavors

The bun plays a significant role in the overall enjoyment of any sandwich. While sesame seed buns are traditional, exploring different bun options can introduce new dimensions of flavor and texture to your cheesy Arby’s beef. Potato buns offer a soft, slightly sweet, and incredibly tender alternative that holds up well to the saucy filling. Brioche buns, with their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture, can turn this copycat into a gourmet experience.

For a heartier sandwich, consider using sourdough bread, which provides a tangy counterpoint to the savory beef and cheese. Whole wheat buns can add a nutty flavor and more fiber, making it a slightly healthier option. Even a simple kaiser roll or a hoagie roll can work, offering a chewier texture. Experimenting with different breads is a fun way to customize your meal and keep things exciting. Each bun type will absorb the sauce differently and provide a unique mouthfeel, proving that sometimes, a small change can make a big impact on your culinary creation. Follow Carina Recipes on Instagram for more recipe inspiration!

Answers to Common Questions

Can I Use Leftover Beef?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, and using leftover roast beef is an excellent way to transform it into a completely new and exciting meal. If you have leftover roast beef from a Sunday dinner or a holiday meal, simply slice it thinly and proceed with the warming and seasoning steps outlined in the recipe. The key is to ensure it’s thinly sliced to achieve that classic Arby’s texture. Using pre-cooked beef drastically cuts down on preparation time, making this copycat sandwich even quicker to put together. This is a fantastic method for repurposing leftovers and preventing food waste, while still enjoying a delicious, satisfying dish.

Just make sure the leftover beef is still fresh and has been stored properly in the refrigerator. Warming it gently with a splash of broth or water will rehydrate it and infuse it with moisture, ensuring it remains tender. This approach not only saves time but also adds a comforting, home-cooked touch to your Arby’s experience. It’s a smart and tasty way to extend the life of your roast beef.

Make It Gluten-Free Easily

Adapting this cheesy Arby’s beef sandwich recipe to be gluten-free is straightforward, primarily involving two main swaps. The first and most obvious is the bun. Simply use your favorite gluten-free sandwich buns, which are widely available in most grocery stores today. Ensure they are soft and sturdy enough to hold the generous fillings. Toasting them briefly can also improve their texture and prevent sogginess.

The second consideration is the cheese sauce. While most dairy ingredients are naturally gluten-free, the thickening agent (flour) needs to be addressed. Instead of all-purpose flour, you can easily substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or use cornstarch. If using cornstarch, create a slurry with a small amount of cold milk before whisking it into the hot milk in the saucepan. This will help you achieve a smooth, lump-free sauce. Always double-check labels on ingredients like beef broth or seasonings to ensure they are certified gluten-free, though most are. With these simple adjustments, anyone can enjoy this delicious copycat sandwich without worry. For more on the history and production of cheddar cheese, you can visit the Cheddar Cheese Wikipedia page.

Freezing Your Sandwich Leftovers

While this cheesy Arby’s beef sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you might be wondering about freezing leftovers. It’s generally not recommended to freeze assembled sandwiches, as the bread can become soggy and the cheese sauce’s texture might change upon thawing. However, you can freeze individual components for later use, making future sandwich assembly even faster.

The cooked roast beef can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it gently before serving. The cheese sauce can also be frozen, though its texture might be slightly different after thawing. To freeze the cheese sauce, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 1 month. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, whisking frequently, and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creaminess. Freezing components separately ensures that when you’re ready for another Arby’s craving, a homemade solution is just a thaw and reheat away.

Chef’s Notes and Pro Tips

Enhance Beef Flavor with Marinade

To truly elevate the flavor of your roast beef beyond simple seasoning, consider a quick marinade. Even 30 minutes in a simple marinade can make a significant difference. A good marinade for roast beef can consist of beef broth, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a minced garlic clove, a pinch of dried thyme, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Submerge your thinly sliced deli roast beef in this mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. This allows the beef to absorb deeper, more complex flavors, mimicking the slow-roasted taste often found in high-quality roast beef.

When you’re ready to cook, gently remove the beef from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid, and proceed with warming it as instructed. The marinade will tenderize the meat slightly and infuse it with an aromatic depth that will make your sandwich stand out. This extra step, though optional, is a chef’s secret to transforming good ingredients into truly extraordinary ones, ensuring every bite of your Arby’s copycat is bursting with enhanced savory goodness.

Perfect Slices and Umami Boost

The texture of the roast beef is paramount to an authentic Arby’s experience. If you are starting with a larger cut of roast beef (rather than pre-sliced deli meat), achieving perfect, paper-thin slices is crucial. For the best results, partially freeze your cooked roast beef for about 30-60 minutes before slicing. This firms it up, making it much easier to cut very thin, even slices with a sharp knife or a meat slicer. The thinner the slices, the more tender the beef will feel in your mouth, and the more easily it will absorb the cheese sauce.

For an additional umami boost in your cheese sauce, a secret ingredient can be a tiny pinch of MSG (monosodium glutamate) or a quarter teaspoon of nutritional yeast. Both add a savory depth that enhances all the other flavors without being detectable on their own. Just a small amount can amplify the “cheesy” and “beefy” notes, bringing your homemade sauce even closer to the irresistible taste of the original. These pro tips will help you perfect every aspect of your cheesy Arby’s beef sandwich, making it a truly restaurant-quality meal made right in your own kitchen.