Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwich (Copycat Recipe)

Arby’s Beef and Cheddar sandwich is a popular fast food copycat recipe made with thinly sliced roast beef, warm cheddar-style cheese sauce, and a tangy Arby’s-style sauce served on soft onion buns. This homemade version recreates the classic restaurant sandwich using simple ingredients like deli roast beef, beef broth, ketchup-based sauce, and nacho cheese sauce for a rich and flavorful result. Perfect for easy lunch ideas, fast food copycat recipes, sandwich recipes at home, and budget-friendly meals, this roast beef sandwich delivers bold savory taste with creamy and tangy layers. Ideal for fans of Arby’s menu items, quick dinner recipes, and homemade fast food sandwiches with restaurant-style flavor.

Ingredients

Arby’s Sauce

• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt

Sandwiches

• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 16 ounces thinly sliced deli roast beef
• 1 cup nacho cheese sauce
• 4 onion burger buns
• Arby’s sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Curly fries, for serving (optional)

---

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully blended. Set aside.
2. Pour beef broth into a medium saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
3. Add the roast beef slices to the warm broth in batches. Let them heat through for 1–2 minutes so they become tender and absorb flavor. Remove and set aside. Repeat until all beef is warmed.
4. Heat the nacho cheese sauce in a microwave-safe bowl in short 10-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm and smooth.
5. Lightly toast the onion buns if desired for extra texture and flavor.
6. Assemble each sandwich by layering warm roast beef onto the bun.
7. Spoon over a portion of nacho cheese sauce, then drizzle with Arby’s sauce to taste.
8. Repeat for remaining sandwiches and serve immediately with curly fries if desired.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade version recreates the iconic Arby’s Beef and Cheddar with tender, juicy roast beef, creamy nacho cheese, and a tangy-sweet signature sauce. It uses simple ingredients and delivers fast-food flavor at home with better control over freshness and seasoning.

---

Tips

• Add roast beef in small batches to keep it evenly heated and tender.
• Warm buns slightly for a more authentic texture.
• Adjust Arby’s sauce heat by increasing or reducing cayenne pepper.
• Use high-quality deli roast beef for the best flavor.
• Keep cheese warm while assembling for smoother layering.

---

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap onion buns for brioche or sandwich rolls if preferred.
• Replace nacho cheese with cheddar cheese sauce or melted provolone.
• Use turkey or chicken slices for a lighter version.
• Add sliced pickles or sautéed onions for extra flavor.
• Make it spicier by adding hot sauce to the cheese or beef broth.

---

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce and cheese can be prepared ahead, but assemble sandwiches fresh for best texture.

Do I need to warm the beef in broth?
It’s recommended for authentic flavor and tenderness, but you can microwave it if needed.

Can I use homemade roast beef?
Yes, freshly cooked roast beef works even better than deli meat.

Is the Arby’s sauce necessary?
Yes, it gives the signature tangy-sweet flavor, but store-bought alternatives can be used.

---

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with crispy curly fries for a classic fast-food-style meal. You can also pair it with coleslaw, pickles, or a simple green salad to balance the richness. These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese and beef are warm and melty.