Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches Recipe

If you’re craving a classic deli favorite but want to make it easier than ever, these Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches are about to be your new obsession. Imagine melt-in-your-mouth roast beef infused with tangy Arby’s sauce, crowned with gooey cheese sauce, and all nestled in a fluffy onion roll. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a hands-off weeknight meal, this recipe is packed with flavor and comfort that only a slow-cooked sandwich can deliver.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches is almost as satisfying as devouring them. Every single item brings a special something to the table, blending seamlessly into a show-stopping sandwich you’ll make again and again.

• Chuck roast: The star of our show! Choose a marbled 2-3 pound cut for the most tender, juicy meat after hours of slow cooking.
• Dried minced onion: Adds little bursts of savory flavor throughout the beef and makes seasoning effortless.
• Montreal steak seasoning: This blend gives the beef an irresistible, well-rounded spice kick and pairs perfectly with the meaty richness.
• Worcestershire sauce: For a deep, umami punch that elevates the overall savoriness of your roast.
• Arby’s sauce: The iconic sweet-and-tangy sauce that defines the flavor of classic beef and cheddar sandwiches—feel free to use extra for topping!
• Cheddar cheese sauce: Smooth, creamy, and downright indulgent, this takes the sandwich to ooey-gooey perfection; Ricos brand is a favorite.
• Onion rolls: Light, slightly sweet rolls dotted with caramelized onions—picking these brings extra flavor and personality.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Place your beautiful chuck roast right in the bottom of your slow cooker. No need to sear! This step makes prep a total breeze and sets the stage for incredibly juicy, fall-apart-tender beef.

Step 2: Layer on the Seasonings

Evenly sprinkle the dried minced onion and Montreal steak seasoning over the top of the roast. These two ingredients pack plenty of flavor without requiring any extra chopping or sautéing—perfect for no-fuss home cooks.

Step 3: Pour the Liquids

Drizzle the Worcestershire sauce over the seasoned meat, then follow with the Arby’s sauce. Be generous! This sauce will soak into every nook and cranny, ensuring every bite bursts with that iconic sweet-and-savory flavor.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Put the lid on and cook on LOW for 8 hours, or HIGH for 4 hours. As the hours pass, your kitchen will fill with the mouthwatering scent of Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches in the making. The long, slow cook breaks down the collagen in the meat for a texture that’s truly unforgettable.

Step 5: Shred and Mix

Once the roast is supremely tender, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. Stir everything together so the luscious sauce coats every strand of beef, then switch your slow cooker to WARM to keep things hot and ready for serving.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

While the beef stays cozy, microwave the cheddar cheese sauce just until it’s smooth and pourable. Pile generous heaps of shredded beef on fluffy onion rolls, crown each with a drizzle of hot cheese sauce, and a little extra Arby’s sauce if you’re like me and can never get enough. Get ready to swoon!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches

Garnishes

If you want to boost both color and crunch, top your sandwiches with tomato slices, crisp lettuce, and a swipe of mayo, just like the deluxe version at Arby’s. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a handful of crispy fried onions can take things up another notch.

Side Dishes

Pair your Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches with classic sides like curly fries, potato chips, or a tangy coleslaw. For a lighter touch, opt for a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette—anything that contrasts the richness of the beef and cheese is a winner.

Creative Ways to Present

Try making sliders for a party-ready twist using mini dinner rolls, or stuff the beef and cheddar filling into pita pockets or wrap it in tortillas for a fun fusion spin. Toast the onion rolls for extra crunch or serve open-faced with a knife and fork for a comforting meal-in-a-bowl feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches filling keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store the beef and its sauce in an airtight container for up to three days, and assemble fresh sandwiches any time the craving strikes.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, the shredded beef freezes well. Let it cool completely, then pack it (with plenty of sauce) into freezer-safe containers or bags. Label and freeze for up to three months—perfect for last-minute dinners or unexpected guests.

Reheating

Gently rewarm the beef and sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra Arby’s sauce if needed to keep things juicy. Reheat the cheese sauce separately until smooth, and build your sandwiches fresh for that just-made taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While chuck roast is the top choice for Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches thanks to its marbling and tenderness, brisket or round roast will also work if that’s what you have on hand—just adjust cooking time as needed.

What if I can’t find Arby’s sauce?

No worries! You can substitute with your favorite spicy BBQ sauce for a similarly zesty, sweet-tangy flavor profile, or even whip up a homemade Arby’s-style sauce using ketchup, brown sugar, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Can I use sliced or shredded cheddar instead of cheese sauce?

Definitely. Sliced or shredded cheddar melts beautifully when placed directly onto the hot beef, though using cheese sauce delivers that nostalgic, creamy finish that makes these sandwiches stand out.

Can I toast the onion rolls?

Toasting is encouraged! A couple of minutes under the broiler or in a toaster oven adds wonderful texture and keeps the rolls from getting soggy, especially when generously loaded with juicy beef and cheese.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap out the onion rolls for your favorite gluten-free buns, and double-check that your Arby’s sauce and cheese sauce are certified gluten-free. The main beef mixture is naturally gluten-free, making this an easy tweak for dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistibly comforting about Slow Cooker Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches—each bite is saucy, cheesy, and packed with nostalgia. Make them once, and you’ll have a new family favorite in your dinnertime rotation. Don’t wait for takeout night; whip up a batch and watch everyone sprint to the kitchen!

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