When you think about fast food that hits the spot, the classic Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich undoubtedly comes to mind. It’s that impressive combination of tender, flavorful roast beef piled high on a soft sesame seed bun, often drenched in that iconic au jus sauce. While treating yourself to a quick drive-thru meal is convenient, you might crave that same delicious experience at home. Enter the Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich recipe—your chance to recreate this fan favorite in your very own kitchen!
Why We Love This Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe
The love for the Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich goes beyond convenience. Firstly, you have full control over the ingredients you use. You’ll only need a handful of items to whip up this delightful dish. Secondly, it takes hardly any time at all. Once you have the ingredients prepped, you can have this cherished meal ready in under 30 minutes.
The most compelling reason to make this sandwich at home is undoubtedly the flavor. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the rich, savory taste of roast beef dipped into au jus, paired with the soft, toasted bun. Not only can this recipe cater to your preferences, but it also allows you to experiment! Do you want to add extra toppings? Go ahead! Feel like switching up the sauce? The options are endless.
It’s a great way to bring family and friends together, too. Picture this: you gather everyone around the kitchen table, each person savoring their own homemade sandwich. The laughter, conversation, and delicious aroma in the air transcend the usual fast-food experience. This simple yet deeply satisfying dish is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients About Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich
To create the perfect Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. Below is a precise list of what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 oz Au Jus Gravy Mix
- 3 cups Water
- 4 Sesame Seed Buns
- 12 oz Thin Sliced Deli Roast Beef
These ingredients are easy to find in your local grocery store and allow you to dive right into the cooking process without unnecessary delays.
How to Make Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich Directions
Making the Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich at home is not only rewarding but also straightforward. Follow these directions step by step to ensure your sandwich turns out perfectly every time.
Prepare the Au Jus: Begin by pouring the au jus gravy mix into a small pot. Next, add 3 cups of water to the pot. Stir it well to dissolve the mix fully. Place the pot on the stovetop over medium heat and let it come to a light simmer. Follow any specific package instructions to ensure it’s prepared correctly. Once the au jus is ready, lower the heat to keep it warm; it should be ideal for dipping.
Toast the Buns: Preheat your broiler and set it to low. Take out a baking sheet and place your sesame seed buns on it. Open each bun, positioning the insides upward. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for just a couple of minutes until the tops are golden and the edges start to toast. Keep a keen eye on them to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and set aside.
Dip the Roast Beef: Take the thin-sliced roast beef and carefully dip it into the warm au jus gravy. Make sure not to fully immerse the meat; a quick dip is all that’s needed to infuse that delicious flavor. Remember, if you leave the roast beef in the gravy too long, the meat could overcook and lose its tenderness.
Assemble Your Sandwich: Now it’s time to put everything together. Place your warm, dipped roast beef directly on the toasted bun. If you like, you can add more au jus on top or even a few additional toppings like cheese, onions, or pickles.
Serve Immediately: Your Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich is now ready to enjoy! Make sure to serve while warm, allowing all the flavors to shine through.
How to Serve Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich
Serving your Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich is all about enhancing the overall dining experience. Here are a few ideas to make your meal special.
Presentation: Consider plating the sandwich with a side of chips or homemade fries for that classic fast-food feel. You can also serve it with a small bowl of au jus on the side for dipping, allowing your guests to customize their flavor experience.
Beverage Pairing: A cold soda or iced tea pairs nicely with this savory sandwich. The contrasting flavors will create a balanced meal that is refreshing and delightful.
Garnishes and Extras: You can elevate the dish by adding some fresh lettuce, tomato slices, or sautéed onions. These toppings not only add flavor but also bring a fresh crunch to the sandwich.
Family Style Serving: If you have guests over or simply want to enjoy a relaxed meal, consider serving the ingredients separately. Set up a “make-your-own sandwich” bar where everyone can create their own version of the Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich. This interactive setup is perfect for gatherings.
Expert Tips: Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich
To ensure the best results when making your Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich, consider the following expert tips:
Quality Ingredients: The taste of your sandwich heavily depends on the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality deli roast beef for the fresh, savory taste you desire.
Control Temperature: Keeping the au jus at a warm temperature is crucial. If it gets too hot, it may overcook the meat when dipping. If it’s too cold, it won’t provide that satisfying flavor boost.
Don’t Overload the Bun: While it’s tempting to pile on the roast beef, a manageable quantity ensures the sandwich holds together and doesn’t become soggy. Plus, it allows you to appreciate each bite.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your sandwich with additional sauces like barbecue or even a spicy mustard. Creating a flavor that truly represents your palate will make the experience even more enjoyable.
Watch Your Time: Don’t leave the roast beef in the au jus for too long—a quick dip is all that’s needed.
How to Store Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich
If you find you have extras or want to meal prep, storing your Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich is quite simple. Follow these guidelines for the best practices:
Cool It Down: Allow any leftover roast beef to cool to room temperature before storing.
Use Airtight Containers: Store the roast beef in an airtight container. This will help retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
Keep Components Separate: If you plan to store the entire sandwich, consider keeping the buns separate. If the bun absorbs moisture from the meat, it can become soggy. By storing them separately, you maintain the integrity of each component.
Refrigerate: Your leftover roast beef can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the beef gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring it doesn’t get overcooked.
Variation of Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich
While the classic Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich is a hit on its own, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Here are some variations to try:
Cheesy Beef: Add a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese to your sandwich. You can pop it under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese perfectly, creating a rich, indulgent flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding some jalapeños or a hot sauce of your choice. Spicy flavors meld beautifully with the savory roast beef.
Mushroom and Swiss: Instead of a classic roast beef, add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an earthy, gourmet twist. This creates a unique blend of flavors that takes your sandwich to the next level.
BBQ Roast Beef: Swap out the au jus for a tangy barbecue sauce. This sweet and savory combination is a fantastic alternative that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Open-Faced Variation: For a different presentation, consider making an open-faced sandwich. Simply place the roast beef right on the bun and drizzle it with au jus sauce. Top with cheese and broil until melted.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to enjoy Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich?
The best way to enjoy this sandwich is fresh, right after making it. Serve it warm with a side of chips or fries and some au jus for dipping.
Can I make the Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich in advance?
While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the roast beef and au jus in advance. Just store them separately and assemble when ready to serve.
What should I do if I don’t have au jus mix?
If you don’t have au jus mix, you can create a simple beef broth from bouillon cubes or use beef stock with some added seasoning to achieve a similar flavor profile.
Copycat Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 oz au jus gravy mix
- 3 cups water
- 4 pieces sesame seed buns
- 12 oz thin sliced deli roast beef
Instructions
- In a small pot, combine au jus gravy mix with 3 cups of water. Stir well and heat over medium until it simmers. Keep warm.
- Preheat your broiler to low. Place sesame seed buns on a baking sheet, cut side up, and broil for a couple of minutes until golden.
- Dip the sliced roast beef into the warm au jus gravy, ensuring a quick dip to maintain tenderness.
- Assemble your sandwich by placing the warm, dipped roast beef on the toasted bun. Add more au jus on top if desired.
- Serve immediately with additional au jus for dipping.
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