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There is nothing quite like the satisfaction of recreating a fast food classic right in your own kitchen This Copycat Arbys Beef Cheddar sandwich lets you capture that perfect blend of savory beef tangy special sauce and creamy cheddar cheese at home No drive thru required and your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing while you pull this together
I started making this recipe when I was craving that nostalgic Arbys flavor but wanted a fresher version It quickly became a game night tradition for my family who now declare it better than the original every time
Ingredients
- Ketchup: gives the Arbys sauce a sweet tangy foundation Opt for a rich thick ketchup for best results
- Light brown sugar: adds depth and balances acidity Make sure it is packed firmly for the best flavor
- Apple cider vinegar: brings zing to the sauce Choose unfiltered if available for extra body
- Worcestershire sauce: adds umami and complexity Go for a reputable brand for full flavor
- Garlic powder and onion powder: round out the sauce with savory notes Always check the freshness of your spices
- Unsalted butter: forms the base for the cheese sauce using fresh butter gives the best melt
- Allpurpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce Aim for a fine white flour
- Whole milk: makes the sauce creamy Use full fat for richness
- Sharp cheddar cheese: is the star of the sauce Look for block cheese and shred it yourself for better melt quality
- Low sodium beef broth: keeps the beef slices juicy and flavorful Choose a high quality broth for best taste
- Thinly sliced deli roast beef: is the protein centerpiece Order it freshly sliced and lean
- Onion hamburger buns: bring a hint of sweetness and texture Try local bakery buns for extra freshness
Instructions
- Prepare the Arbys Sauce:
- In a small mixing bowl whisk together ketchup light brown sugar apple cider vinegar Worcestershire sauce garlic powder and onion powder until smooth Set aside so the flavors can meld
- Make the Cheddar Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter over medium heat in a small saucepan Add flour and cook for one minute stirring constantly until foamy Gradually pour in whole milk while you whisk bringing the mixture to a steady simmer Stir frequently for about five minutes until thickened Take off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese mixing until completely melted and silky smooth
- Warm the Roast Beef:
- Add beef broth to a large skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat for five minutes Gently separate the roast beef slices to prevent them from clumping and drop them into the warm broth in batches Heat each piece for one to two minutes until warmed through then lift out with tongs to drain
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a generous spoonful of the Arbys sauce onto the bottom half of each onion hamburger bun Layer on the warm roast beef pile it high and then drizzle with the cheddar cheese sauce Finish with the top half of the bun and serve right away while everything is hot and gooey
Sharp cheddar is my favorite ingredient here The tangy creamy melt is unmatched and makes the sandwich so much richer I remember making this for my brother the first time and we could not stop laughing at how close it tasted to the real thing
Storage Tips
Always store leftover sandwiches unassembled Keep roast beef covered in the fridge for up to three days and store cheese sauce separately in an airtight container Reheat gently and assemble just before eating The buns are best kept at room temperature for texture
Ingredient Substitutions
No sharp cheddar Use regular mild cheddar or try Colby jack for a gentler flavor If you want less sugar in the sauce use honey or maple syrup instead For a lighter sandwich use low fat milk in the cheese sauce and swap out regular buns for whole wheat
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crispy oven fries or a classic side salad Pickles or pepperoncini add a pop of tang Add a little extra cheese sauce for dipping the sandwich or fries on the side If you love heat a few dashes of hot sauce in the Arbys sauce bring a little kick
Cultural and Historical Context
Inspired by the beloved Arbys classic this sandwich has become an American comfort food since its introduction in the 1970s People love the tangy sauce and gooey cheese layered onto juicy beef making it a staple at fairs football parties and family gettogethers It is one of those recipes that bridges the gap between fast food nostalgia and home cooked warmth
Seasonal Adaptations
Try smoked cheddar for a cozy fall twist Pile on caramelized onions in the winter months Swap in turkey for a lighter summer version
Success Stories
Many readers have shared that their kids now ask for these sandwiches for birthday dinners Friends who have not had Arbys in years are surprised by how close this homemade version comes to the original Restaurant style meals at home really do taste better with fresh ingredients
Freezer Meal Conversion
To make ahead cool and freeze the roast beef in broth in an airtight container Cheese sauce can be portioned into freezer bags and reheated gently Add buns fresh on the day you plan to eat Everything defrosts well in the fridge overnight and dinner will be ready in minutes
Once you have made these sandwiches at home it is hard to go back to the drive thru Fresh ingredients and homemade sauces guarantee the best flavor every single time
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of roast beef works best?
Thinly sliced deli roast beef provides the most tender texture and soaks up flavor from the broth.
- → How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?
Gradually add milk to the butter and flour, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, then fully melt the cheese off heat.
- → Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the homemade tangy sauce can be mixed ahead and refrigerated until ready to use for sandwiches.
- → Is it necessary to warm the roast beef in broth?
Simmering in broth keeps beef slices moist and infuses them with extra savory flavor before assembling.
- → What bread should I use for the sandwich?
Onion hamburger buns add both a slight sweetness and aromatic flavor, complementing the beef and cheese.