Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to comfort sandwiches, few things rival the Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt. Juicy slices of roast beef layered with sharp cheddar cheese, all toasted to gooey perfection, make this a warm and satisfying meal. Add a touch of creamy sauce or caramelized onions, and you’ve got a deli-worthy sandwich made right at home. I once tried this on sourdough bread, and the tangy crust paired beautifully with the rich beef and cheese. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner, a weekend lunch, or even a game-day snack, this sandwich is indulgent without being complicated. It’s a timeless favorite that feels just as perfect alongside soup as it does on its own.
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Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich – A Hearty Deli-Style Favorite
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Diet: Halal
Description
The Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich is a hearty and cheesy sandwich made with tender slices of roast beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce, all toasted to perfection on crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 8 slices roast beef (deli-style or homemade)
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices sandwich bread, hoagie rolls, or sourdough
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp prepared horseradish (optional, for extra kick)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 small onion, caramelized (optional)
- Pickles (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, horseradish (if using), and Dijon mustard to make a spread.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Spread the mayo mixture on the inside of each slice.
- Layer roast beef and cheddar cheese evenly between two slices of bread. Add caramelized onions if desired.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place sandwiches in skillet, buttered side down, and cook until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve warm with pickles on the side.
Notes
- Use a panini press for an evenly melted, crispy sandwich.
- Substitute provolone or Swiss cheese for cheddar if preferred.
- Great served with au jus or beef gravy for dipping.
- Can be made with leftover roast beef for a homemade upgrade.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling / Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Roast beef – Thinly sliced, tender beef provides the hearty base of the sandwich.
Cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor and melts beautifully into the beef.
Bread – Sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or hoagie rolls hold up well to the fillings and heat.
Butter – Brushed on the bread for golden, crispy edges when toasted.
Onions (optional) – Caramelized onions bring sweetness that balances the savory richness.
Horseradish sauce or mayo – A creamy spread that adds tang and moisture.
Mustard (optional) – Adds a zesty note that cuts through the richness.
Garlic powder or seasoning salt – Sprinkled lightly for extra flavor.
Pickles (optional) – A crunchy, tangy sidekick that complements the sandwich.
Directions
Start by preheating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, spread a thin layer of horseradish sauce or mayo, and mustard if desired.
Layer slices of roast beef and cheddar cheese between the bread slices. If using caramelized onions, add them now for extra flavor. Place the sandwich in the hot skillet, buttered side down, and cook until golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Flip carefully and cook the other side until equally golden, pressing gently with a spatula to help the melt.
Once the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crisp, remove from the skillet. Slice in half and serve hot, ideally with chips, fries, or a simple green salad.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 sandwiches. Total cooking time is about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick but hearty meal.
Storage/reheating
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 1 day. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Variations and Customizations
French Dip Style – Serve with a side of au jus for dipping.
BBQ Twist – Add a drizzle of barbecue sauce for smoky-sweet flavor.
Spicy Kick – Use pepper jack cheese and sliced jalapeños instead of cheddar.
Italian Melt – Add roasted red peppers and provolone cheese.
Bacon Lover’s Upgrade – Layer in crispy bacon for an extra indulgent touch.
Open-Faced Version – Serve on toasted bread with roast beef and melted cheddar on top, broiled until bubbly.
Healthier Option – Use whole-grain bread and lean roast beef with light cheese.
Garlic Butter Finish – Brush the bread with garlic butter before grilling.
Breakfast Melt – Add a fried egg for a hearty brunch-style version.
Herbed Mayo – Mix mayo with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh flavor.
FAQs
What’s the best bread for this sandwich?
Sourdough, ciabatta, or hoagie rolls work best since they hold up well.
Can I use leftover roast beef?
Yes, leftover roast beef slices are perfect for this sandwich.
What cheese pairs best besides cheddar?
Provolone, Swiss, or pepper jack are all excellent alternatives.
Can I make this sandwich in the oven?
Yes, assemble and bake at 375°F until the cheese melts and the bread crisps.
How do I make the cheese extra gooey?
Cover the skillet briefly to trap steam and help melt the cheese.
Can I meal prep these sandwiches?
They’re best fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead and assemble quickly.
Is horseradish sauce necessary?
No, but it adds a tangy kick that complements the beef.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peppers all work well.
How do I caramelize onions for this sandwich?
Cook sliced onions slowly in butter or oil over low heat until golden and soft.
What sides go best with this sandwich?
French fries, potato chips, coleslaw, or a crisp salad.
Conclusion
The Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich is a satisfying, flavorful recipe that brings deli-quality comfort to your own kitchen. With its gooey melted cheddar, savory beef, and crispy golden bread, it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet comes together in minutes. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with fun variations like BBQ or spicy jalapeño, this sandwich will always hit the spot. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night craving, it’s a timeless favorite worth making again and again.
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