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Copycat Arby's Beef and Cheddar

By: Barbara Updated on Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:38:31 GMT Hearty Mains
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Barbara, recipe developer and home cook at Graceful Flavors
By Barbara

Hi, I'm Barbara, the recipe developer and home cook behind Graceful Flavors. I share approachable recipes with clear steps, familiar ingredients, and delicious results for real everyday kitchens.

Updated on Mon, 16 Jun 2025 14:38:31 GMT

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A sandwich with cheese and meat on a wooden cutting board. Pin it
A sandwich with cheese and meat on a wooden cutting board.

This homemade beef and cheddar sandwich packs all the signature flavors of the fast-food favorite using simple ingredients from your kitchen. The creamy cheddar sauce, tangy Arby's-style sauce and warm roast beef on a soft onion bun come together in just minutes for a satisfying, nostalgic meal.

The first time I made this copycat recipe the kitchen smelled exactly like the sandwich shop. My husband could not believe we were not eating takeout.

Ingredients

  • Thinly sliced roast beef deli style: gives that soft and savory classic texture. Look for freshly sliced beef at the counter for more moisture and better flavor.
  • Onion buns or sesame seed buns: provide a bit of sweetness. Onion buns bring the closest flavor to the original and are worth tracking down.
  • Cheddar cheese sauce: makes the sandwich creamy and rich. Shred your own cheese for the best melt and always choose a sharp cheddar.
  • Butter flour and milk: are the foundation for the homemade sauce. Use real butter for extra flavor and whole milk for richness.
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: seasonings help mimic that familiar taste in both cheese and Arby's-style sauces.
  • Arby's sauce or your own quick substitute: brings tangy sweetness. Ketchup as a base with a little paprika gets you very close.
  • Splash of water for reheating beef: keeps it from drying out.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cheese Sauce:
Melt butter over medium heat until just foaming then sprinkle in the flour. Whisk continuously for about one minute so the flour loses its raw taste. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking so there are no lumps. Keep stirring until it thickens slightly. Lower the heat stir in cheese a handful at a time and keep whisking until smooth and glossy. Finish with garlic powder and onion powder.
Warm the Beef:
Lay roast beef slices in a single layer in a hot skillet. Add a splash of water to create steam and gently toss or separate with tongs. This will heat meat through in thirty seconds while keeping it tender and juicy.
Toast the Buns:
If you like a little crunch lightly toast the cut sides of your buns on a dry skillet or baking sheet for about two minutes until just golden. This step is optional but makes everything sturdier.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread a generous spoonful of the Arby's-style sauce on the bottom bun. Pile with warm beef slices then pour a ribbon of cheese sauce over the meat. Cap with the top bun and press gently so everything melds together.
A sandwich with meat and cheese on a wooden table.
A sandwich with meat and cheese on a wooden table.

I always use extra cheese sauce because my kids love it drizzled on top and served as dipping sauce for fries. The homemade Arby's-style sauce is so tangy I sometimes save extra for grilled chicken sandwiches the next day.

Storage Tips

Leftover sandwiches will keep in the fridge when wrapped well but for best results store each part separately. Keep roast beef in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of water. Cheese sauce can be refrigerated in a jar and warmed gently on the stove or in bursts in the microwave. Toast fresh buns when reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find onion buns plain brioche or potato buns work well. For a lighter version use low-sodium roast beef and light cheese. You can also swap classic cheddar with pepper jack or American cheese for a twist. If you like a smoky flavor add a dash of liquid smoke to your sauce.

A close up of a sandwich with cheese and meat.
A close up of a sandwich with cheese and meat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with classic curly fries or oven-roasted potato wedges for the full fast-food experience. A spoonful of extra sauce on the side is perfect for dipping. Finish with pickles or a simple shredded lettuce slaw for a bit of crunch and freshness.

Cultural Context

Arby's beef and cheddar has been a favorite drive-through sandwich since the nineteen seventies. Its soft bun tangy sauce and warm cheese are legendary among fans of nostalgic American fast food. Recreating it at home means you can control the quality of ingredients and enjoy that iconic taste whenever the craving strikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the beef from drying out?

Heat the beef quickly with a splash of water in a skillet—just thirty seconds ensures it stays moist and tender.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the cheese sauce in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat gently, stirring until smooth before serving.

What can I use if I don’t have onion buns?

Sesame seed buns or plain hamburger buns work well; toast lightly for the best texture and flavor.

Is there a way to reduce sodium content?

Opt for low-sodium deli beef and homemade sauce to lower sodium, while maintaining flavor and juiciness.

Can I customize the sauce flavor?

Absolutely! Adjust garlic powder, onion powder, or add a hint of smoked paprika for a personalized touch.

How can I make this sandwich for a crowd?

Prepare beef, cheese sauce, and buns in batches. Set up a build-your-own sandwich station for easy serving.

4.30 from 27 votes

Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar

Prep Time:
10 Minutes
Cook Time:
5 Minutes
Total Time:
15 Minutes
Servings:
4
A sandwich with cheese and meat on a wooden cutting board.
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Tender beef, melted cheddar, and tangy sauce served on toasted buns—your crave-worthy deli classic, made fresh at home.

Ingredients

  • Main Assembly

  • 1 pound thinly sliced deli-style roast beef
  • 4 onion buns or sesame seed buns
  • 1 cup prepared cheddar cheese sauce
  • 1/4 cup prepared Arby's sauce

  • Optional Homemade Cheese Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • Optional Homemade Arby's Sauce

  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1.

1. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until a thick, velvety sauce forms.

2.

2. Heat Roast Beef: Place sliced roast beef in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Add a splash of water and warm for approximately 30 seconds until just heated through.

3.

3. Toast Buns: If desired, lightly toast onion buns on a baking sheet in a preheated oven or on a heated skillet until golden.

4.

4. Assemble Sandwiches: Spread Arby's sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with warmed roast beef slices, then drizzle generously with cheese sauce. Cap with the top buns and serve immediately.

Notes

  1. Sodium content is elevated due to deli meats; opt for reduced-sodium roast beef to decrease overall salt levels.

Tools You'll Need

  • Skillet or griddle
  • Small saucepan
  • Baking sheet

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains milk, wheat (gluten), and may contain eggs and soy depending on bun variety.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 520
  • Total Fat: 26 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 38 g
  • Protein: 34 g