Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe: Tender & Juicy at Home

I’m thrilled to share my take on Arby’s famous roast beef sandwich recipe, bringing that same tender and juicy flavor right to your kitchen. With a blend of professional technique and slow-cooking tradition, this recipe is sure to impress.

Cooking at 225°F for several hours ensures the beef is perfectly tender, just like Arby’s signature roast beef. Let’s get started and make this delicious sandwich a reality!

Ingredients for Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich

Slow-cooked to perfection, this roast beef sandwich is tender, juicy, and utterly delicious.

[recipe_ingredient_scaler]

The top round roast is key here. Costco and Whole Foods typically have great quality. Look for a lean cut with minimal visible fat. If you can’t find top round, London broil is a good substitute. Make sure to trim any excess fat before cooking.

No Arby’s Sauce? Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and a pinch of paprika for a close approximation. For an extra kick, add some prepared horseradish. You can also serve with cheddar cheese for added richness.

This roast beef keeps beautifully—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave until just warmed through. The leftovers make amazing beef sandwiches or beef dip.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich

Here’s the method to achieve tender, juicy roast beef sandwiches that rival the original.

Step 1: Season the Top Round Roast

Preheat your oven to 325°F. In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tbsp Kosher Salt, 1 tbsp Black Pepper, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Onion Powder, and 0.5 tsp Paprika. Rub this spice blend all over the 2.5 lb Top Round Roast, making sure to coat it evenly. I like to press the spices into the meat to ensure they stick.

Let the seasoned roast sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the meat cook more evenly.

Step 2: Sear and Braise the Roast Beef

Heat a large oven-safe skillet over high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until it’s brown and caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the skillet and set it aside. Then, add 1 cup Beef Broth and 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Return the roast to the skillet, cover it with foil, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the roast for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness and the internal temperature reaches 160°F for medium-rare or 180°F for well-done.

Step 3: Slice the Roast Beef Thinly

Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Using a sharp knife, slice the roast beef against the grain into thin strips. I prefer to use an electric knife for this step, as it makes slicing easier and more precise.

The roast beef should be tender and juicy, with a nice texture from the slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Split the 4 whole Hamburger Buns in half and toast them lightly. Spread a layer of 0.5 cup Arby’s Sauce on the bottom bun. Add a few slices of the roast beef on top of the sauce, followed by a slice of Cheddar Cheese if desired. Top with the other half of the bun.

Garnish with 1 tbsp Fresh Horseradish if you like a bit of spice. Serve immediately and enjoy the tender, juicy roast beef sandwiches.

Essential Equipment for This Dish

Essential Cooking Equipment

To make Arby’s-style roast beef sandwiches, you’ll need some key equipment. A large oven-safe skillet is crucial for searing the roast before braising. I prefer a cast-iron skillet because it retains heat beautifully and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.

Meat Thermometer

A meat thermometer is non-negotiable for achieving perfect doneness. I use a digital probe thermometer to monitor the internal temperature throughout cooking. This ensures your roast beef reaches the ideal 160-180°F without overcooking.

Oven and Roasting Pan

A reliable oven that maintains consistent temperature is essential. You’ll also need a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet with enough room to hold the roast comfortably. Make sure it’s deep enough to hold the braising liquid too.

Sharp Slicing Knife

For slicing the roast beef thinly, a sharp slicing knife is a must. I prefer an electric knife for precision and ease, especially when dealing with tender meat. If you don’t have one, a sharp chef’s knife will work too.

Additional Tools

Other helpful tools include tongs for handling the roast, aluminum foil for wrapping during resting, and a cutting board for slicing. Having these on hand will make the process smoother and more efficient. 🔥

Optional Equipment

For an extra-authentic Arby’s experience, consider using a slow cooker or instant pot for braising. These appliances can tenderize the roast beautifully and save oven space. However, the traditional oven method works just as well.