Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

this RECIPE

Introduction to Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, busy days call for delicious meals that don’t take forever to prepare. That’s where this Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar comes into play. It’s the perfect quick fix for those hectic evenings when you crave that iconic fast-food taste but want to whip it up at home. Imagine tender roast beef smothered in creamy cheese sauce, all nestled in an onion bun. Trust me, your family will think you’re a culinary hero! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to impress your loved ones.

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

This Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar isn’t just delicious; it brings convenience back to your kitchen. In just about 35 minutes, you can have a comforting sandwich that rivals the original. Perfect for busy nights, it combines simple ingredients and quick prep time, making it a breeze. Plus, the taste? Oh, it’s an explosion of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance! Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients for Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Arby’s sauce: A taste of tangy goodness that’s easy to prepare. You’ll whip up a mix of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
• Ketchup: This classic condiment forms the base of your sauce. Choose a brand you love for that extra zing!
• Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps balance the savory flavors. If you’re out, regular sugar can work in a pinch.
• Apple cider vinegar: This brings a nice acidity to the sauce. Don’t have any? White vinegar can be a substitute.
• Worcestershire sauce: It’s packed with umami flavor, making it a must-have for that genuine taste.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: These spices enhance the flavor profile beautifully, making everything taste more delicious.
• Unsalted butter: The starter for your cheese sauce, providing a rich base. Salted butter works too, just reduce added salt elsewhere.
• All-purpose flour: Essential for thickening your cheese sauce, it creates that silky texture we all crave.
• Whole milk: This ensures your cheese sauce is creamy. For a lighter option, go for 2% milk instead.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Feel free to mix in other types of cheese for a flavor twist.
• Low sodium beef broth: Adds depth to the roast beef. If you’re making this vegetarian, veggie broth can be a great alternative.
• Thinly sliced deli roast beef: The heart of the sandwich. You can even use leftover roast beef if you have it on hand!
• Onion hamburger buns: These give that classic crunch and flavor. If you prefer a different bun, go ahead—like sandwich rolls or even hoagie bread!

Exact measurements for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article for your convenience. Happy cooking!

How to Make Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Creating this Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar is straightforward and fun! With just a few simple steps, you’ll whip up something spectacular. Let’s dive into the details!

Step 1 – Prepare the Arby’s Sauce

Start by making the Arby’s sauce that gives this sandwich its signature flavor. Grab a small mixing bowl and whisk together ½ cup of ketchup. Add 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar for sweetness.

Next, incorporate 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to bring in some tang. Don’t forget the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, which is crucial for depth. Finally, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ½ teaspoon of onion powder. Mix everything thoroughly and set aside for the flavors to meld.

Step 2 – Make the Cheese Sauce

Now it’s cheese sauce time! In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for about a minute while stirring; it should be bubbly and slightly golden.

Gradually add 1 cup of whole milk while whisking continuously. Bring this to a gentle simmer; you want it to thicken a bit. Stir for about 5 minutes. Then, remove from the heat and mix in 6 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts into a creamy, dreamy texture!

Step 3 – Warm the Roast Beef

To warm your roast beef, pour 2 cups of low sodium beef broth into a large skillet over medium heat. Bring this to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.

Next, take your pound of thinly sliced deli roast beef and make sure to separate the slices. This way, they won’t stick together! Add them into the broth individually. Warm the beef for just 1-2 minutes, then remove it from the heat. It’ll be perfectly heated and ready to layer onto your sandwich!

Step 4 – Assemble the Sandwich

Now comes the fun part—assembly! Start by spreading the prepared Arby’s sauce on the bottom half of each onion hamburger bun. Don’t be shy with it; you want that flavor to shine!

Then, layer on the warm roast beef slices generously, followed by a generous drizzle of that glorious cheese sauce. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bun, press down gently, and voilà—your Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar is ready to enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Warm the roast beef slices individually to ensure even heating throughout.
• Feel free to adjust the cheese amount for a cheesier bite; it’s your sandwich, after all!
• Prep the Arby’s sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly later.
• Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavor experience.
• If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce!

Equipment Needed

• Small mixing bowl: For preparing the Arby’s sauce. A regular bowl will do!
• Small saucepan: Ideal for making the cheese sauce. A skillet can work in a pinch.
• Large skillet: To warm the roast beef. If unavailable, any deep pan will work.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing and avoiding lumps in your sauces. A fork can substitute!
• Spatula: For assembling and spreading the sauce. A butter knife works just fine too!

Variations of Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

• Spicy Twist: Add a jalapeño cheese sauce or sprinkle sliced jalapeños for a kick that’ll wake up your taste buds!
• Mushroom Madness: Sauté some mushrooms in butter and add them to the sandwich for an earthy flavor boost.
• Veggie Delight: Swap out beef for grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Barbecue Style: Drizzle some barbecue sauce along with the Arby’s sauce for a smoky, sweet alternative.
• Italian Influence: Layer on some marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for an Italian twist that’s sure to impress!

Serving Suggestions for Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

• Crunchy Coleslaw: Pair your sandwich with a refreshing coleslaw to add a nice crunch and balance the flavors.
• Potato Wedges: Serve with crispy potato wedges or fries for that classic fast-food feel.
• Soda or Iced Tea: A chilled soda or sweet iced tea complements the richness of the sandwich perfectly.
• Presentation: Serve on a wooden platter for a rustic touch or wrap in parchment paper for easy eating!

FAQs about Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar

Can I use leftover roast beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover roast beef is a fantastic option to create your Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar. Just warm it gently in the broth to ensure it’s deliciously tender.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To lighten up this Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar, consider using leaner cuts of beef or even turkey. Additionally, switching to reduced-fat cheese and whole grain buns can help cut calories.

Can I prepare the sauces in advance?

You sure can! Both the Arby’s sauce and cheese sauce can be prepared ahead of time. Store them in the fridge, then simply reheat when you’re ready to assemble the sandwich. It makes meal prep super easy!

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, kids typically love this Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar! The cheesy goodness and familiar flavors are appealing to little tastebuds. Just be mindful of the spice level if they’re sensitive!

Can I freeze leftovers?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled sandwiches. Just wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container. To enjoy later, reheat in the oven for the best taste and texture!

Final Thoughts

There’s something so enjoyable about creating a Copycat Arby’s Beef Cheddar in your own kitchen. It’s not just a sandwich; it’s a little piece of comfort wrapped up in a bun. The joy on your family’s faces when they bite into that warm roast beef and melty cheese is priceless. It’s perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends alike. Plus, you get to customize every element to fit your family’s tastes. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe show you how easy it is to bring that fast-food favorite home!

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