Homemade Arby's-Style Roast Beef Sandwich
Make this Homemade Arby's-Style Roast Beef Sandwich in just 3 hours! Delicious beef with au jus for dipping. Perfect for lunch or dinner. Serves 4!
- about introduction
- secrets behind perfect homemade arby's - style roast beef sandwich
- the magic behind this recipe
- health & nutrition highlights
- recipe at a glance
- essential components guide
- kitchen equipment essentials
- perfect cooking technique
- master chef's advice
- perfect presentation
- storage & make - ahead
- creative variations
- expert faq solutions
- complete nutrition guide
- Recipe Card
about introduction
ah, the humble roast beef sandwich. it’s a classic that has stood the test of time and is loved across america, this delicious creation dates back to the 19th century when it began as a simple meal for families in england, featuring robust cuts of beef...
what sets this homemade arby’s - style roast beef sandwich apart ? first off, you get to control every ingredient that goes into it no preservatives or mystery sauces here. you can customize seasoning levels according to your taste buds and even opt for whole grain rolls if you're feeling healthy, plus, there’s something utterly satisfying about crafting a dish from scratch; it's like a little love letter to yourself (or perhaps a delicious treat for friends.) .
secrets behind perfect homemade arby's - style roast beef sandwich
the secrets behind perfecting this roast beef delight are grounded in rich culinary heritage, the concept of slow - roasting meat originated centuries ago when cooking methods were all about patience and flavor development, imagine those early cooks who mastered fire and smoke that's where our fascination with roasting started.
as we dig deeper into its origin story, let’s not forget how cultural significance plays a role here too. in many households across the u .s ., especially during gatherings or holidays, roast beef sandwiches have become synonymous with comfort food the kind that sparks memories around family tables filled with laughter and joy .
fast forward to today : this sandwich remains immensely popular at restaurants and fast - food chains alike, whether it's lunch on - the - go or a cozy dinner at home, folks can't resist sinking their teeth into this hearty meal.
the magic behind this recipe
now onto the magic what truly makes this recipe shine ? it's all about those unique flavor combinations coming together harmoniously. think juicy slices of seasoned roast enveloped in soft bread; add some au jus drizzled over top yum.
foolproof techniques are key here too. with expert - tested methods passed down through generations (and maybe some trial - and - error moments), achieving perfectly cooked roast beef becomes less daunting than it seems, trust me; i’ve had my fair share of “oops” moments in the kitchen before mastering this one.
and since everyone leads busy lives these days, i've got some time - saving tips up my sleeve for instance, prepping your seasonings ahead of time can cut minutes off your cooking process without sacrificing taste .
health & nutrition highlights
let’s chat health because who doesn't want nutritious options ? this homemade arby’s - style roast beef comes packed with lean protein from eye round cuts which helps build muscle mass while keeping fat content relatively low compared to other meats .
dietary considerations also come into play : you can easily make adjustments based on dietary preferences by swapping out bread types or using alternative seasonings suitable for different diets such as gluten - free options or vegan alternatives (yes really.) .
wellness advantages abound as well this dish offers an excellent balance between carbohydrates from bread and proteins from meat so you won’t feel sluggish after devouring one (or two) sandwiches .
when breaking down balanced nutrition facts per serving it clocks in around 350 calories with approximately 30g protein making it quite filling yet manageable enough not leave you regretting dessert later on…if ya know what i mean.
recipe at a glance
for those looking at logistics first : let me lay out everything you'll need before diving headfirst into cooking bliss. total preparation time is just 15 minutes , followed by 3 hours cook time a small trade - off considering how mouthwatering it'll be afterward.
skill level required falls under “medium” don’t panic though; anyone willing can tackle this recipe successfully with patience and practice (plus maybe some snacks nearby) .
this recipe serves 4 , perfect if you've got friends stopping by or simply want leftovers ready for lunch tomorrow you'll thank yourself later.
lastly and here's where things get fun it won't break the bank either. all ingredients combined offer cost efficiency without skimping on quality taste a win - win situation if i ever saw one .
so grab your apron because we're about to embark on an adventure creating our very own homemade arby’s - style roast beef sandwich that’ll have everyone raving long after they've left your table.
essential components guide
when it comes to making a homemade arby’s - style roast beef sandwich, you want only the best ingredients to recreate that delicious flavor, let’s dive into what you need.
premium core ingredients
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beef eye of round roast (2 .5 lbs) : this is your star ingredient. look for a cut that has a good amount of marbling but isn't overly fatty this will ensure juiciness without being greasy, if you can, choose grass - fed beef for richer flavor and better quality .
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kosher salt (1 tablespoon) : go for coarse kosher salt; it helps in enhancing the meat's natural flavors without overpowering them .
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black pepper (1 teaspoon) : freshly cracked black pepper gives a much bolder taste than pre - ground, try to grind your own if possible.
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garlic powder (1 teaspoon) & onion powder (1 teaspoon) : both should be fresh and aromatic, check expiration dates because old spices can lose their punch .
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smoked paprika (1 teaspoon) : it adds depth and subtle smokiness to your roast beef, you’ll want the sweet kind, not the hot variety unless you're feeling adventurous.
storage guidance
for cuts of meat like eye of round roast, keep it in its original packaging until you're ready to use it or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap if storing longer than a few days in the fridge, spices should be stored in airtight containers away from light and heat sources for maximum freshness .
signature seasoning blend
creating the perfect seasoning blend is essential for any great roast, especially when replicating an arby’s - style experience .
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spice combinations : the mix above combines savory elements with just enough kick from smoked paprika and pepper, don’t hesitate to tweak these spices based on your personal preference maybe add some cayenne if you like heat.
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herb selections : while this recipe focuses on spices, feel free to throw in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma during cooking .
flavor enhancers
consider adding worcestershire sauce into your au jus later on that umami punch really takes things up a notch.
aromatic additions
you could also infuse garlic cloves into the drippings while simmering au jus; it'll give everything that extra pop without too much fuss .
smart substitutions
sometimes life throws curveballs. here are some swaps if you're missing something :
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alternative options : if eye of round isn't available, sirloin tip steak works nicely too it’ll give similar textures but might be slightly more tender due to fat content present .
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dietary swaps : for those avoiding red meat altogether, try using turkey breast instead. just season similarly; it won't have quite as much richness but still hits the spot when done well.
emergency replacements
low on time ? grab deli - style roast beef slices from your local market instead just warm them through before assembling sandwiches with au jus drizzle over top.
seasonal variations
in summer months when fresh herbs are abundant at farmers' markets, feel free to experiment with fresh basil or parsley mixed into your seasoning blend for refreshing notes along with traditional flavors .
kitchen equipment essentials
let’s talk tools. having reliable kitchen equipment makes all the difference when preparing this meal at home .
must - have tools
you'll definitely need :
- a large skillet – crucial for searing .
- a roasting pan – ensures even cooking .
- sharp knife – slicing thinly against grain is key.
- meat thermometer – so you don’t undercook or overdo things.
recommended appliances
if you're up for splurging :
- instant pot – allows quicker cooking times while keeping moisture intact .
- electric knife – makes slicing effortless and super precise .
helpful gadgets
extra gadgets can simplify tasks :
- spice grinder – ideal if you've got whole spices lying around.
- basting brush – useful when drizzling melted butter onto rolls before serving .
home alternatives
no fancy gadgets ? no problem. use regular kitchen utensils creatively just make sure they’re clean & sanitized before starting anything new.
pro ingredient tips
here are some insider secrets that'll help elevate your cooking game :
selection secrets
always pick prime cuts whenever possible they’re worth splurging on since they yield better results overall regarding tenderness & flavor profiles found throughout each bite taken during meals shared together around tables filled laughter among friends/family alike . . .
quality markers
look out specifically around butcher shops where staff often share valuable knowledge about sourcing local products versus grocery store chains offering mass - produced options lacking character sometimes . . .
money - saving tips
buy larger quantities of meats/spices upfront; many stores offer discounts based upon purchasing volume rather than individual items separately which leads savings accrued over time spent enjoying fabulous meals prepared easily alongside loved ones gathered together sharing moments created around food enjoyed collectively the heartwarming essence behind every dish served warmly today . . .
so there ya have it a detailed guide packed full o’ tips ‘n tricks that'll help create that scrumptious homemade arby’s - style roast beef sandwich everyone raves about.
perfect cooking technique
cooking can be an art, but with the right techniques and steps, you can create delicious meals every time, let's break down how to nail this process from start to finish .
essential preparation steps
first things first mise en place . this fancy term just means getting everything ready before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and tools so they’re within reach, for our arby’s - style roast beef sandwich, that means having your beef, seasonings, broth, and rolls in one spot, it saves time and stress later on .
next up is prep techniques , for this recipe, you'll want to pat the beef dry with paper towels for a better sear, while that’s happening, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl this blend packs a flavor punch.
time management is crucial set your oven temperature to 300°f (150°c) while prepping so it’s ready when you are, if you're using a meat thermometer (which i highly recommend), have it handy. also remember : clean as you go; it'll save you from feeling overwhelmed later on .
professional cooking method
now onto the cooking. start by heating a large skillet over medium - high heat until it's shimmering with oil this should take about 2 - 3 minutes, searing each side of the roast for around 2 - 3 minutes will give it that beautiful brown crust we all love .
transfer your lovingly seared roast into a roasting pan or baking dish next you’ll want an oven - safe thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat if you've got one handy. place it in that preheated oven and let it work its magic until it reaches an internal temperature of 135°f (57°c) for medium rare; depending on thickness this could take anywhere from 2 - 3 hours .
timing precision here is key; check occasionally without opening the door too much because letting heat escape can mess with your cook time.
expert techniques
once you've reached that magical temperature point the aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly you'll need to master resting time, cover that glorious roast loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing it allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat ensuring tenderness when sliced .
when slicing against the grain (which makes such a difference.), use sharp knives; no one likes jagged edges ruining their presentation. you’re aiming for thin slices here they look more appealing piled high on soft rolls or hoagie buns .
for quality checks along the way : make sure those drippings aren't burnt when preparing au jus after resting the simmering should smell rich without bitterness.
success strategies
okay folks let's talk troubleshooting tips. if your roast ends up overcooked despite best intentions ? don’t panic. serve those slices alongside some extra au jus for dipping that'll bring back moisture levels without compromising flavor .
quality assurance comes next : taste as you go a little splash of worcestershire sauce might be just what your au jus needs if it's lacking something special.
final touches are where personal flair shines through; perhaps adding cheese under broiler briefly ? or layering fresh toppings like pickles or crispy onions adds crunchiness that'll elevate every bite.
remember these timing markers : allow about 15 minutes prep , then 2 - 3 hours cooking , followed by resting at least 20 minutes before diving in.
with these expert techniques combined with careful attention during preparation and cooking phases you’ll impress friends & family alike with homemade sandwiches reminiscent of arby’s classic flavors all while enjoying yourself in process too. happy cooking y'all.
master chef's advice
when whipping up this arby's roast beef recipe , a few pro tips can elevate your sandwich game, first off, don’t skimp on the seasoning. a well - seasoned roast makes all the difference, if you have time, marinate your beef overnight for an explosion of flavor trust me; it’s worth it.
another thing that chefs swear by is using a meat thermometer, it takes the guesswork out of cooking meat to perfection, aim for about 135°f for medium - rare, and you'll be golden. also, resting the meat afterward is crucial it allows juices to redistribute, so every bite is juicy and tender .
lastly, don’t forget about presentation. a little extra effort in how you plate can make your homemade sandwiches look professional and inviting .
perfect presentation
now let’s talk about making those sandwiches instagram - worthy. start with toasted rolls this adds texture and warmth that compliments the roast beef beautifully, you can even brush them with garlic butter before toasting for an extra kick .
for garnishes, think fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top, they not only add color but also enhance flavor profiles, don’t shy away from adding pickles or jalapeños on the side for that added crunch.
when serving up these beauties, consider creating a platter with dipping bowls filled with au jus alongside each sandwich, it creates a fun interactive element while boosting visual appeal a win - win.
storage & make - ahead
if you're planning ahead (which i highly recommend), this roast beef can easily be made in advance. after cooking it up according to our arby’s - style roast beef recipe , let it cool completely before slicing, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; it'll last around 3 - 4 days .
for longer preservation, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze slices for up to three months perfect for quick meals later on. when reheating, do so gently either in the microwave or oven at low temperatures; this keeps everything nice and juicy without drying out .
and here’s a tip : if you want maximum freshness when reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth while warming them up it’ll bring back that luscious moisture.
creative variations
get ready to get creative because this recipe doesn’t have to stay traditional. want something spicy ? add some chipotle powder into your spice mix bam. instant kick.
if you're looking into dietary modifications, swap out traditional rolls for whole - grain options or gluten - free buns if needed, for seasonal twists during summer bbqs ? try adding grilled veggies as toppings; they pair perfectly with roasted beef.
and let's not forget regional variations : why not try southern - style pulled barbecue instead ? just shred that roast after cooking and slather it in tangy sauce the possibilities are endless.
expert faq solutions
got questions ? you're not alone. one common concern might be how to avoid dry meat ensure you’re monitoring internal temperature closely while roasting; overcooked meat is no one’s friend .
another frequent question revolves around seasoning amounts; feel free to adjust based on personal taste preferences, if spices aren't your thing, stick with just salt and pepper the classic approach never fails .
whipping up au jus might seem tricky too but just remember : use drippings combined with good - quality broth simmered down until rich that's all there is to it.
complete nutrition guide
eating healthily doesn't mean sacrificing flavor and our arby’s roast beef recipe proves just that. each serving packs approximately 350 calories but also delivers around 30g of protein perfect post - workout fuel if you ask me .
moreover, lean cuts like eye - of - round are great sources of iron which helps keep energy levels high throughout your day not bad at all right ? just keep portions reasonable since sauces may hike sodium content depending on what you choose .
so go ahead enjoy every bite guilt - free knowing you've got amazing nutritional benefits along with deliciousness wrapped inside those soft buns.
⚖️ Ingredients:
- 2.5 lbs beef eye of round roast (or top round)
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Drippings from the roast beef (about a cup)
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- (Optional) Worcestershire sauce, to taste
- Four sandwich rolls or hoagie buns (preferably soft and slightly toasted)
- (Optional) Slices of cheddar cheese or your choice of cheese
🥄 Instructions:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the beef roast for an even coating.
- Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil until shimmering. Sear each side of the seasoned roast for about 2-3 minutes, until browned.
- Step 4: Transfer the seared roast to a roasting pan or baking dish. Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat if you have one. Place in preheated oven and cook until internal temperature reaches about 135°F (57°C) for medium rare; this will take approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on thickness.
- Step 5: Once cooked to desired doneness, remove from oven and cover loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing; this allows juices to redistribute.
- Step 6: While resting, strain any drippings into a saucepan along with beef broth. Simmer on low heat for about ten minutes; add Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Step 7: Use a sharp knife to slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Step 8: Place slices of roast beef onto toasted rolls/buns and drizzle some au jus over them before adding cheese if using—melt under broiler briefly if you like it hot!
- Step 9: Serve immediately while warm!
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