Name: Savory Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Like Arby’s at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 510 min
Ingredients: 3 to 4 pounds Chuck Roast (Can substitute with rump roast or brisket); 1 tablespoon Dried Minced Onion (Fresh onions or shallots can be used); 2 tablespoons Montreal Steak Seasoning (Blend of black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can be used); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Soy sauce is a good substitute); 1.5 cups Arby’s Sauce (Can substitute with spicy BBQ sauce); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Sauce (Shredded cheddar can be an alternative); 4 rolls Onion Rolls (Any soft roll or slider bun can be used)

As the aroma of simmering beef wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. These Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches aren’t just a meal; they’re an homage to those cherished late-night fast-food runs. With melt-in-your-mouth beef cooked slowly in a tangy sauce and topped with creamy cheddar, this easy recipe brings a family-friendly twist to your dinner table, eliminating the need for drive-thru dinners. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a comforting way to gather loved ones while satisfying cravings for something hearty and delicious. So, are you ready to recreate this fast-food classic in the warmth of your own home?

What makes these sandwiches irresistible?

Flavor-packed goodness: Each bite bursts with the savory depth of slow-cooked beef, tangy Arby’s sauce, and rich cheddar cheese that will keep you coming back for more.
Meal prep magic: Just set it and forget it! With minimal effort, this dish transforms into a decadent family dinner, freeing up time to spend with loved ones.
Customizable options: Feel free to spice it up with jalapeños or create a “deluxe” sandwich adorned with fresh toppings.
Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Perfect for family gatherings or game nights, these sandwiches cater to everyone’s cravings without any fuss.
Give it a try alongside some delicious Cheesy Orzo Mac, and you’ll be amazed at how easy and satisfying homemade can be!

Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Ingredients

For the Beef
• Chuck Roast – This main protein provides rich flavor and tenderness after slow cooking; you can substitute with rump roast or brisket for a similar texture.
• Dried Minced Onion – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh onions or shallots can be used if you prefer.
• Montreal Steak Seasoning – Enhances beef flavor; a blend of black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can be used if unavailable.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami depth to the dish; soy sauce is a great substitute for similar flavor.

For the Sauce
• Arby’s Sauce – This key ingredient gives the dish its signature taste; feel free to substitute with spicy BBQ sauce for a unique twist.
• Cheddar Cheese Sauce – Provides creaminess and a sharp cheese flavor; shredded cheddar can be a delicious alternative.

For Serving
• Onion Rolls – The classic bread choice for serving; any soft roll or slider bun can be used based on preference for your beef and cheddar sandwiches.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Roast
Begin by placing a 3 to 4-pound chuck roast at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Allow the roast to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes while you gather the remaining ingredients. This short resting period enhances the meat’s flavor and texture as it cooks.

Step 2: Season the Beef
Sprinkle dried minced onion and Montreal steak seasoning evenly over the chuck roast. Ensure the spices coat the meat well, providing a mouthwatering flavor for your beef and cheddar sandwiches. Use your hands to rub the seasonings into the meat for optimal results.

Step 3: Add the Flavors
Next, pour Worcestershire sauce generously over the seasoned beef, enhancing the umami depth of the dish. This savory component is essential for a well-rounded flavor profile. Then, take 1 ½ cups of Arby’s sauce and pour it evenly over the top of the roast, ensuring each bite will be packed with the signature tangy taste.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Beef
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours. The goal is to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become super tender. Check for doneness after the cooking time; the beef should easily shred apart with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Beef
Once tender, carefully remove the lid and use two forks to shred the beef right in the slow cooker. Mix the shredded beef with the flavorful sauce remaining at the bottom. Set the cooker to WARM to keep the beef ready for assembling your sandwiches.

Step 6: Heat the Cheese Sauce
While the beef is mingling with its sauce, take a microwave-safe bowl and heat cheddar cheese sauce in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir it every 30 seconds to ensure it warms evenly and becomes perfectly creamy for your sandwiches.

Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches
Now it’s time to build your delicious beef and cheddar sandwiches! Pile a generous portion of shredded beef on each soft onion roll, then drizzle over the warm cheddar cheese sauce. For an extra kick, feel free to add a bit more Arby’s sauce on top before serving.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your assembled sandwiches on a platter for a delightful presentation. These beef and cheddar sandwiches are best served warm, so gather your loved ones and dig in, savoring the homemade warmth and flavors reminiscent of your favorite fast-food classic.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches?

As you delight in the warm, comforting flavors of these savory sandwiches, think about rounding out your meal with delicious sides that enhance the experience.

Crispy French Fries: Golden and crunchy, the perfect complement that balances the soft texture of the sandwiches.
Sweet Potato Fries: A twist on a classic! Their sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory beef and cheddar.
Coleslaw: A refreshing and tangy side that provides crunch and cuts through the richness of the filling.
Pickles and Pepperoncini: Tangy, briny bites add a zesty kick, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Creamy Mac and Cheese: Rich and cheesy, this ultimate comfort food pairs wonderfully alongside your hearty sandwiches.
Garden Salad: Light and fresh with crisp vegetables, it offers a bright contrast to the dense, savory beef.

For a satisfying finish, consider serving these flavorful sandwiches with a cold soda or a refreshing glass of iced tea to cleanse the palate!

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food on busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef mixture and store it in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance. Simply season and place the chuck roast in the slow cooker with the sauces, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, set it to LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, and after shredding, mix the beef with the sauce as usual. To maintain quality, keep the cheese sauce separate until just before serving, reheating it gently. This simple strategy saves time, ensuring a satisfying meal with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Fridge: Store any leftover beef and cheddar sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded beef and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Allow to cool before freezing to maintain quality.

Reheating: Thaw frozen beef in the fridge overnight. Reheat gentle in the microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed, to keep it moist.

Serving: When ready to serve, pile the reheated shredded beef onto fresh onion rolls and drizzle with cheese sauce for a delicious, comforting meal.

Expert Tips for Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Sear First: Browning the chuck roast before slow cooking enhances the flavor and adds texture, giving your beef and cheddar sandwiches a delightful depth.
Check Doneness: Every slow cooker is different. Ensure your beef is fork-tender after 8 hours on LOW or 4 hours on HIGH for optimal results.
Warm the Rolls: Lightly toasting onion rolls adds a satisfying crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy, elevating your sandwich experience.
Customize Spice Levels: If you love heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef before slow cooking for a spicy twist that complements the cheddar beautifully.
Store Leftovers Wisely: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently for best flavor retention.

Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Variations

Customize your Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches to fit your family’s unique tastes and dietary needs!

Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the slow cooker for a fiery twist that enhances the flavor beautifully.
Deluxe Version: Top your sandwiches with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a smear of mayonnaise for a delightful crunch and refreshing contrast.
Creamy Dream: Replace cheddar cheese sauce with a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for an even richer, creamier taste. This adds a delightful texture variation that many will love.
Extra Savory: Introduce a dash of garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning for an aromatic depth that will elevate your meals.
BBQ Flair: Use a smoky BBQ sauce instead of Arby’s sauce for those who crave a sweet and tangy flavor. It pairs deliciously with the beef!
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with jackfruit for a plant-based alternative that absorbs all the savory flavors, making it a hearty option for everyone.
Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of the beef during the last 30 minutes of cooking to achieve a gooey, melty topping that takes it to the next level.

These variations will keep your tastebuds tingling! And if you’re intrigued by more cheesy goodness, you should check out the comforting Cheesy Orzo Mac or the indulgent Crockpot Potato Broccoli Cheddar Soup for your next meal!

Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chuck roast for my Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches?
Absolutely! Look for a chuck roast that has good marbling, which means that there are flecks of fat throughout the meat. This fat helps to keep the beef moist and tender during cooking. Additionally, choose a roast that has a nice, bright red color and avoid any that show dark spots or discoloration.

What are the best storage methods for leftover Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches?
Store any leftover beef and cheddar sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact and the beef doesn’t dry out. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, consider separating the shredded beef from the rolls and storing each in their own container.

Can I freeze the Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches?
Absolutely! For freezing, allow the shredded beef and cheese sauce to cool completely, then transfer them into airtight containers. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to retain moisture.

What if my beef doesn’t shred easily after cooking?
Very occasionally, if your beef isn’t shredding well, it may need more cooking time. Simply return the lid and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour on LOW until it reaches that fork-tender texture. Make sure to check that your slow cooker isn’t cooking hotter than normal.

Can I use other types of cheese for the sauce?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese sauce is traditional, you can mix it up by using cream cheese combined with shredded cheese, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist! Just make sure to melt and blend thoroughly for a creamy consistency that will complement the beef perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
As always, it’s best to avoid sharing these sandwiches with pets especially because of ingredients like onions and high-fat content, which can be harmful to them. If you’re serving guests with allergies, make sure to check for any adverse reactions from common allergens such as dairy in the cheese sauce or gluten in the rolls. You can always substitute with gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.