There’s something magical about biting into a warm, juicy roast beef sandwich piled high with tangy cheddar sauce and tucked into a toasted onion bun. Years ago, after my youngest daughter’s soccer games on Saturday afternoons, we’d swing through Arby’s as a special treat — those Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches became our little victory meal, win or lose. The girls would devour them in the backseat, cheese sauce dripping down their fingers, giggling about plays and teammates.
When my oldest went off to college last year, she confessed that those sandwiches were one of her favorite memories. That’s when I knew I had to recreate them at home.
After plenty of kitchen experiments (and some very willing taste-testers), I’ve perfected this homemade Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwich recipe that captures all that nostalgia in every bite. Now, these copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches grace our dinner table regularly, bringing back those happy Saturday afternoons and creating new memories right in our own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Cheddar Sandwich Recipe
This copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwich recipe is everything you crave without the drive-through wait. First, it’s incredibly budget-friendly — making these Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches at home costs a fraction of ordering out, especially when feeding a hungry family. Second, you control the quality of ingredients, from the beef to the cheese sauce.
The flavors are spot-on authentic, with tender roast beef, creamy sharp cheddar sauce, and those signature onion rolls that make these sandwiches unforgettable. Plus, this recipe comes together in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and quick. The cheddar sauce is silky smooth and utterly addictive — honestly, you might find yourself making extra just to drizzle over baked potatoes or steamed broccoli.
These homemade Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches also reheat beautifully, so they’re wonderful for meal prep or next-day lunches. Whether you’re feeding teenagers after practice or treating yourself to a comfort food classic, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with home-cooked love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for these Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches is wonderfully simple. You’ll find most everything at your regular grocery store, and chances are you already have several items in your pantry and fridge.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deli roast beef | 2 pounds | Thinly sliced, preferably medium-rare |
| Onion hamburger buns | 6-8 buns | Or regular sesame seed buns |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons | For toasting buns |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | Low-sodium preferred |
| For the Cheddar Sauce: | ||
| Butter | 3 tablespoons | Unsalted |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons | For the roux |
| Whole milk | 1½ cups | Room temperature works best |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups | Freshly shredded |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon | |
| Onion powder | ¼ teaspoon | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Or to taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
Substitutions & Variations
One of the beautiful things about making Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches at home is how easily you can customize them to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. If you can’t find onion buns, sesame seed or even plain hamburger buns work wonderfully — just brush them with melted butter mixed with a pinch of onion powder before toasting. For the roast beef, you can absolutely use leftover homemade pot roast sliced thin, which adds even more homemade goodness.
Some folks prefer using leftover prime rib during the holidays, and let me tell you, that’s an absolute treat. If you’re watching sodium, opt for low-sodium beef broth and reduce the added salt in the cheese sauce. For the cheddar sauce, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties — a combination of sharp cheddar and smoked cheddar creates incredible depth, while adding a tablespoon of cream cheese makes the sauce even silkier.
If someone in your family prefers a spicier kick, whisk in a dash of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of horseradish. You can also make these beef and cheddar sandwiches in a slow cooker by warming the beef in broth on low for 2-3 hours, keeping everything warm until serving time. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for whole milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy.
One of the beautiful things about making Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches at home is how easily you can customize them to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. If you’re looking for a delicious baked treat to complement your meal, check out this Super Moist Banana Nut Bread Recipe That Never Fails.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches is straightforward and honestly quite fun. Just follow along, and you’ll have restaurant-quality sandwiches on your table in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Start by making the cheddar sauce since it needs to stay warm. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted and bubbling gently, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
This creates a roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens, which takes about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Keep the sauce warm on the lowest heat setting, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Warm the Roast Beef
Pour the beef broth into a large skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the sliced roast beef, separating the slices so they warm evenly. Let the beef heat through for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally.
You want it hot and tender but not overcooked. The broth keeps everything moist and adds wonderful flavor to your Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
While the beef warms, butter the insides of your onion buns. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and place the buns butter-side down. Toast until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential — it adds texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy from all that delicious cheese sauce.
Step 4: Assemble Your Sandwiches
Now comes the best part! Place the bottom half of each toasted bun on a plate. Using tongs, lift the roast beef from the broth, letting excess liquid drip off, and pile it generously onto each bun.
Don’t be shy — these Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches should be loaded with beef. Ladle that gorgeous, creamy cheddar sauce over the beef, letting it cascade down the sides. Top with the other bun half and serve immediately while everything is hot and melty.
Pro Tips for Success
After making these homemade Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches countless times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. First, always shred your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that prevent the sauce from becoming silky smooth.
Second, warm your milk slightly before adding it to the roux — this helps prevent lumps and creates a smoother sauce faster. If your cheese sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a tablespoon or two of milk until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or whisk in a tiny bit more cheese.
When warming the roast beef, don’t let the broth boil vigorously, as this can make the meat tough. A gentle simmer is perfect. For the absolute best beef and cheddar sandwiches, ask your deli counter to slice the roast beef fresh and specify you want it thin — about the thickness of two or three sheets of paper.
If you’re making these for a crowd, keep the cheese sauce warm in a small slow cooker set on low, and the beef can stay warm in its broth in another slow cooker. This setup works beautifully for game day gatherings or family parties.
After making these homemade Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches countless times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. For a cozy night in, consider pairing your sandwiches with The Ultimate Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Soup for a Cozy Night In.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches are definitely best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can absolutely be saved. Store the components separately for best results — the roast beef in its broth in an airtight container, the cheese sauce in another container, and the buns wrapped well or stored in a bread bag. Everything will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the beef gently in a skillet with a splash of broth over medium-low heat until heated through. Reheat the cheese sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, whisking frequently and adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency. Toast fresh buns or warm the leftover buns in a 300°F oven for a few minutes.
The cheese sauce can also be frozen for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, whisking in a bit of milk to bring back the smooth texture. I don’t recommend freezing the assembled sandwiches, as the buns tend to get soggy, but freezing the sauce is a great time-saver for busy weeks when you want quick beef cheddar sandwiches on demand.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches are hearty and satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes the meal to the next level. Classic curly fries are the obvious choice — you can make homemade ones or grab a bag of frozen seasoned fries for convenience. A simple side salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and ranch dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy sandwiches.
Potato chips or kettle chips add a nice crunch without much effort. For a heartier meal, serve creamy coleslaw or potato salad alongside. My family loves these sandwiches with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping — it’s like an elevated grilled cheese and soup combo.
Pickles, both dill and bread-and-butter varieties, make excellent accompaniments and cut through the richness beautifully. If you’re feeding a crowd, consider setting up a topping bar with sliced tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, and pickles so everyone can customize their Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches to their liking. Sweet potato fries, onion rings, or even a simple fruit salad round out the meal nicely, especially during warmer months.
These copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches are hearty and satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes the meal to the next level. For a delightful dessert, try making Quick Raspberry Cream Croissants: A Simple Bakery-Style Treat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives you that classic Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwich flavor, you can experiment with medium cheddar for a milder taste, or add some Monterey Jack for extra creaminess. Some folks love mixing in a bit of American cheese for that ultra-smooth, melty texture. Just avoid using only mild cheese, as the sauce won’t have enough flavor punch.
What’s the best way to slice roast beef for these sandwiches?
The key is getting deli-style thin slices, about 1/16 inch thick. If you’re using leftover homemade roast beef, let it chill completely in the refrigerator first — cold meat slices much thinner and more evenly. Use a very sharp knife and slice against the grain. Honestly though, buying pre-sliced deli roast beef saves time and gives you that authentic Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwich texture.
How do I keep the cheese sauce from getting lumpy?
The secret is adding the milk gradually while whisking constantly, and making sure your heat isn’t too high. Also, add the shredded cheese slowly, one handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded, and keep the heat on low once you start adding cheese. If you do get lumps, an immersion blender works wonders to smooth everything out.
Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
For the best Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches, I recommend preparing the components ahead but assembling right before serving. You can make the cheese sauce up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge, then gently reheat it when needed.
The beef can be warmed in broth at the last minute. If you must assemble ahead, wrap the sandwiches tightly in foil and warm them in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes, though the buns won’t be quite as crispy.
What can I substitute for beef broth when warming the meat?
Water works in a pinch, though you’ll lose some flavor. Au jus gravy mix dissolved in water is an excellent substitute that actually enhances the beefy taste. You could also use vegetable broth or even a bit of red wine mixed with water for a richer flavor. Some people use the drippings from a homemade roast, which adds incredible depth to these homemade beef cheddar sandwiches.
Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches are a beloved fast-food item known for their combination of tender roast beef and creamy cheddar sauce, all served on a toasted onion bun. This iconic sandwich has become a nostalgic favorite for many, often associated with family outings and special treats after sports events, making it a cherished part of American fast-food culture.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Based on 8 servings:
| Calories: | 485 |
| Total Fat: | 24g |
| Saturated Fat: | 13g |
| Cholesterol: | 95mg |
| Sodium: | 890mg |
| Total Carbohydrates: | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber: | 1g |
| Sugars: | 6g |
| Protein: | 36g |
These Arby’s Beef Cheddar Sandwiches have become a beloved staple in our home, bringing restaurant flavors to our everyday table with warmth, love, and plenty of that irresistible cheddar sauce. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or starting new traditions, I hope this recipe fills your kitchen with comfort and your family with happiness. Enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!
Arby's Beef Cheddar Sandwiches
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, adding milk gradually, and stirring in shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Warm the roast beef in beef broth over medium heat until heated through.
- Toast the buns by buttering the insides and cooking them butter-side down until golden brown.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing roast beef on the bottom bun, topping with cheddar sauce, and adding the top bun.