Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Posted on February 16, 2026

Delicious homemade Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar sandwich with beef and cheddar.

Just like the real thing—rich melted cheddar and warm, savory roast beef tucked into soft rolls. This copycat is quick, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or game-day snacking.


introduction

Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar brings that melty, beefy sandwich right to your kitchen with minimal fuss. If you love deep, slow-cooked flavors, this sandwich captures that same comfort—you get a boost of savory richness similar to a tender beef neck bones recipe without the long braise. Quick to assemble and endlessly customizable, it’s a crowd-pleaser that travels well for picnics or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

  • Big, beef-forward flavor with melty cheddar in every bite
  • Ready in under 20 minutes when using sliced roast beef
  • Easy to scale for family dinners or party platters
  • Perfect for meal prep—assemble and warm later for fast lunches
  • Customizable with horsey sauce, BBQ, or caramelized onions

Ingredients Needed :

Protein

  • 1 pound roast beef, thinly sliced

Bread & Cheese

  • 4 sandwich rolls
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese

Broth & Sauce

  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Optional: horsey sauce or BBQ sauce

Spices

  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Step-by-Step Instructions :

  1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. In a small saucepan, heat beef broth with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place sliced roast beef in the skillet and pour the broth mixture over it. Heat until warm.
  4. Slice the sandwich rolls and place a slice of cheddar cheese on each side.
  5. Add the warmed beef and a spoonful of broth to each sandwich.
  6. Top with additional sauce if desired.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Serve these sandwiches with crunchy dill pickle spears and a pile of golden oven fries for a true diner-style plate. For a heartier spread, pair them with a simple slaw or a warm side like a savory corned beef and cabbage bake for a fun, beef-forward meal rotation. They also travel well—wrap tightly for packed lunches or tailgate trays.

Tips for Success Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

  • Use thinly sliced roast beef for the best texture and quick reheating.
  • Don’t over-saturate the bread—add just enough broth to flavor and warm the meat.
  • Toast the rolls briefly to keep them from getting soggy under the broth.
  • Stir the broth mixture before adding to the skillet so the spices distribute evenly.
  • For a deeper beef flavor, use low-sodium beef broth and add a splash of Worcestershire.
  • For guidance on choosing tender, flavorful cuts, check this guide to beef cheek meat.

variation (if any)

  • Make it spicy: mix a little sriracha into the beef broth before warming.
  • Cheesy swap: try Swiss or provolone for a milder melt.
  • Add-ons: caramelized onions, roasted peppers, or pickled jalapeños add great contrast.

Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover roast beef?
A: Yes—leftover roast beef works great. Warm gently in the broth mixture to keep it tender.

Q: How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?
A: Lightly toasting the rolls helps create a barrier; spoon only a small amount of broth into the sandwich.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can warm the beef and broth and store separately from the rolls and cheese; assemble and melt cheese just before serving.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version?
A: Use a hearty mushroom or seitan roast and vegetable broth seasoned with the same spices for a similar savory profile.


Delicious homemade Copycat Arby's Beef Cheddar sandwich with beef and cheddar.

Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Enjoy a quick and easy homemade version of the classic Arby’s Beef Cheddar sandwich, featuring rich melted cheddar and savory roast beef in soft rolls, perfect for busy weeknights or game-day snacking.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1 pound roast beef, thinly sliced Use thinly sliced roast beef for the best texture.
Bread & Cheese
  • 4 pieces sandwich rolls Lightly toast the rolls to prevent sogginess.
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese Can substitute with Swiss or provolone for a milder flavor.
Broth & Sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth For a deeper flavor, use low-sodium beef broth.
  • to taste horsey sauce or BBQ sauce Optional for added flavor.
Spices
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to preference.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. In a small saucepan, heat beef broth with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Place sliced roast beef in the skillet and pour the broth mixture over it. Heat until warm.
  2. Slice the sandwich rolls and place a slice of cheddar cheese on each side.
  3. Add the warmed beef and a spoonful of broth to each sandwich.
  4. Top with additional sauce if desired.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Serve with crunchy dill pickle spears and golden oven fries for a true diner-style plate. Customize with caramelized onions, roasted peppers, or pickled jalapeños for added flavor.

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