Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar

This Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwich recreates the iconic fast-food favorite at home with tender roast beef, melty cheddar cheese sauce, and zesty red ranch sauce, all piled on a soft onion roll. It’s a simple and delicious way to satisfy your craving for a classic Arby’s sandwich without leaving the house!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: Ready in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Restaurant Quality: Tastes just like the original but fresher and customizable.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Great for lunch, dinner, or a satisfying snack.
• Family Favorite: Everyone will love this delicious and hearty sandwich.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sandwich:

• 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (from the deli or homemade)
• 4 onion rolls (or regular hamburger buns)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the buns)

For the Red Ranch Sauce:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Catalina dressing (or French dressing)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

Make the Red Ranch Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, Catalina dressing, apple cider vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt until smooth.
2. Set Aside: Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Prepare the Roast Beef:

1. Heat the Roast Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or beef broth and heat the sliced roast beef until warm. Cover with a lid to retain moisture.

Toast the Buns:

1. Butter and Toast: Spread butter on the cut sides of the onion rolls. Toast in a skillet or on a griddle until golden and crisp.

Assemble the Sandwich:

1. Add Red Ranch Sauce: Spread a generous layer of red ranch sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
2. Layer Roast Beef: Pile warm roast beef onto the buns.
3. Cheese Sauce: Drizzle hot cheddar cheese sauce over the roast beef.
4. Top It Off: Place the top bun on the sandwich.

Serve:

1. Enjoy Immediately: Serve with curly fries or potato chips for a full Arby’s experience!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Beef and Cheddar: Add a dash of hot sauce to the red ranch or sprinkle crushed red pepper into the cheese sauce.
• Bacon Cheddar Beef: Layer crispy bacon on top of the roast beef before adding the cheese sauce.
• Philly Style: Add sautéed onions and peppers for a twist on a Philly cheesesteak.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the beef and cheese sauce over lettuce for a bun-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep components (beef, sauces, and buns) separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the beef and cheese sauce gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Toast the buns fresh before assembling.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the red ranch sauce up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese sauce?

Yes, you can use homemade cheese sauce, Velveeta, or even jarred nacho cheese sauce if you prefer.

What is the best cut of beef to use?

Thinly sliced roast beef from the deli counter works best. You can also use leftover roast beef or cook your own beef and slice it thinly.

Can I make this sandwich healthier?

Use whole wheat buns, reduced-fat cheese sauce, and low-sugar ketchup in the red ranch sauce for a lighter version.

Can I freeze the red ranch sauce?

It’s best to make the sauce fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

How do I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns and ensure the cheese sauce and red ranch sauce ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make the cheese sauce from scratch?

Yes, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, then add 1 cup of milk and stir until thickened. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.

What can I serve with Beef and Cheddar sandwiches?

Serve with fries, onion rings, potato chips, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I add vegetables to this sandwich?

Absolutely! Lettuce, tomato slices, or pickles add a fresh crunch to the sandwich.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, if onion rolls aren’t available, regular hamburger buns, pretzel buns, or hoagie rolls work well too.

Is the red ranch sauce the same as Arby’s sauce?

No, Arby’s sauce is tangier and spicier, while the red ranch sauce is sweeter. You can use either depending on your preference.

Conclusion

This Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwich brings the flavors of your favorite fast-food meal right into your kitchen. With tender roast beef, creamy cheese sauce, and tangy red ranch, every bite is a delicious treat. Easy to make and customizable to your taste, this sandwich is perfect for satisfying your craving without a trip to the drive-thru. Try it today and enjoy the homemade version of this classic sandwich!

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