Arby’s Beef & Cheddar Copycat

I recreate that iconic Arby’s Beef & Cheddar sandwich at home—tender sliced roast beef piled high on a soft slider bun, layered with melted cheddar sauce, onions, and a tangy zing that hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this copycat captures the savory roast beef and creamy cheese sauce combo in a homemade version that’s easy to assemble. It gives that satisfying fast‑food flavor without the drive‑thru, and it’s great for a casual lunch or cozy dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Thinly sliced roast beef (deli‑style or leftover roast)

• Slider buns or small sandwich rolls

• Butter or olive oil

• Onion, thinly sliced

• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• Mild cheddar cheese (optional, for extra balance)

• Milk or cream

• Flour or cornstarch

• Dijon mustard or horseradish sauce

• Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. I start by toasting the buns lightly with butter or oil until golden and slightly crisp.

2. In a skillet, I sauté the thinly sliced onion until translucent and slightly caramelized.

3. I add thinly sliced roast beef to the skillet to warm through, seasoning it gently with salt and pepper.

4. For the cheddar sauce, I melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour (or corn‑ starch) to form a roux, then slowly whisk in milk until the sauce thickens.

5. I stir in shredded sharp cheddar (and mild cheddar, if using), Dijon mustard, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper—whisking until silky.

6. I spoon warm roast beef and onions onto the toasted bottom bun, then generously drizzle the cheddar sauce over top.

7. I cap it with the top bun and press gently to meld all those flavors.

8. I repeat for remaining sandwiches and serve while warm.

Servings and timing

I usually make enough for 4 sliders (or 2 full‑size sandwiches). Prep takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes around 15 minutes—so I have them ready in about 25 minutes total.

Variations

• I swap slider buns for hoagie rolls to make it more filling.

• I add pickles or sliced banana peppers for extra tang.

• I use pepper jack cheese in the sauce for a spicy twist.

• I sometimes stir in caramelized mushrooms with the onions for added richness.

• I sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for crunch and contrast.

Storage/Reheating

I don’t recommend storing assembled sandwiches because the buns can get soggy. Instead, I keep leftover roast beef, onions, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm beef and onions in a skillet, heat the sauce over low heat, then reassemble on fresh toasted buns.

FAQs

Can I use frozen roast beef?

Yes—I defrost it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently in the skillet with the onions before assembling.

Is this slider or full‑size friendly?

Absolutely—I adapt it to slider buns for a fun appetizer or to hoagie rolls for a heartier meal.

Can I make the cheddar sauce ahead?

Sure—I make it, refrigerate it in an airtight container, then gently reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to bring it back to creamy.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

I substitute with yellow mustard or prepared horseradish—it adds a similar tangy kick.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I freeze sauce and beef separately, then thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. Buns are best freshly toasted, not frozen.

Conclusion

I love how this copycat Beef & Cheddar brings that nostalgic Arby’s flavor home in just a few simple steps. It’s cozy, indulgent, and perfect for sandwich lovers craving something satisfying without leaving the kitchen. I hope it becomes a regular hit in my kitchen—and yours!