Copycat Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe

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From the tender, thinly sliced roast beef piled high to the soft sesame seed bun, Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. If you’re anything like me, visiting Arby’s for this classic sandwich feels like a treat, but sometimes you want to recreate that savory masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

How to make Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef

Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef is one of the chain’s biggest and simplest sandwiches—basically a “more meat, less fuss” version of their classic roast beef.

Ingredients

For the Roast Beef

• 2.5–3 lb beef roast
• 1–2 tbsp neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or light olive oil)

Dry rub/seasoning:

• 2 tsp kosher salt (or 1½ tsp table salt)
• 1½ tsp black pepper, finely ground
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika (sweet)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for light smokiness)
• 1 tsp sugar (helps with browning and a subtle sweetness)
• ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme (optional)

Flavoring liquid (for tenderness & moisture):

• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp soy sauce (adds umami and salt—use less salt in rub if you add this)

For the Sandwich

For each Half Pound Roast Beef Sandwich (about 8 oz meat per sandwich):

• 8 oz (½ lb) thinly sliced roast beef (from your cooked roast)
• 1 large sesame seed bun (or onion roll, or brioche-style burger bun)
• 1–2 tbsp Arby’s‑style sauce (see below) – optional
• 1–2 tbsp horsey sauce (horseradish mayo) – optional
• 1 tbsp softened butter or mayo (for toasting bun)

Optional Homemade Arby’s‑Style Sauces

Arby’s‑Style Sauce (tangy, slightly sweet):

• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• Pinch salt
• Pinch black pepper
• Pinch smoked paprika or chilli powder (optional, for a hint of heat)
• Mix everything, simmer for 5–10 minutes on low, then cool.

Horsey Sauce (creamy horseradish sauce):

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 tbsp prepared horseradish (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 tsp lemon juice or white vinegar
• ½ tsp sugar
• Pinch salt
• Stir together, taste, and adjust horseradish to your liking.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Roast

1. Trim (if needed)
   • If your roast has a very thick fat cap, trim it down to about ¼ inch.
   • Leave some fat for flavor and moisture.
2. Pat dry
   • Pat the roast completely dry with paper towels.
   • This helps with browning and lets the seasoning stick.
3. Season generously
   • In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika(s), sugar, and herbs.
   • Rub the roast lightly with oil, then coat all sides with the seasoning mix. Press it in so it adheres.
4. Optional rest
   • For the best flavour, wrap the seasoned roast and let it rest in the fridge for 2–12 hours.
   • Let it sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before cooking to promote even roasting.

2. Roast the Beef (Low and Slow)

You have two main options: oven roasting or a slow cooker. The oven will get you closer to deli-style roast beef.

1. Oven Method (Recommended)
   • Preheat and sear
     • Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
     • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil.
     • Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 2–3 minutes per side).
     • Roast gently
   • Place the seared roast on a rack in a roasting pan or on a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet.
   • Mix beef broth, Worcestershire, and soy sauce; pour into the bottom of the pan (not over the roast).
   • Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat.
   • Roast at 275°F until internal temp is:
     • 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium-rare
     • 135–140°F (57–60°C) for medium
     • This usually takes 1½–2 hours, depending on the roast size and the oven.
   • Rest the meat
   • Remove from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest at least 20–30 minutes.
   • Resting is critical so the juices redistribute and the meat slices cleanly.
2. Slow Cooker Method (Much easier, less deli-thin texture)
   • Sear (optional but recommended)
     • Sear the roast on all sides in a hot skillet with oil.
   • Slow cook
     • Add the roast to your slow cooker.
     • Pour broth, Worcestershire, and soy sauce around the roast (not over it).
     • Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours, until very tender but still sliceable.
     • This will give you a softer, more pot-roast-like texture but still works well for a piled sandwich.

3. Chill and Slice Very Thin

To mimic that Arby’s thin slice:

1. Chill the roast
   • After resting, let the roast cool to room temp, then refrigerate at least 2–3 hours (or overnight).
   • Cold meat is much easier to slice very thinly.
2. Slice thinly
   • Use a very sharp slicing knife or a meat slicer (if you have one).
   • Slice across the grain into paper-thin slices. The thinner, the better to match that classic texture.
3. Weigh about 8 oz of sliced beef per sandwich for a true “half pound.”

4. Warm the Beef “Arby’s Style”

Arby’s slices the cooled roast beef and then gently warms it. You can do the same:

1. Make a warming jus
   • In a skillet or small pot, combine:
   • 1–2 cups beef broth
   • 1–2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
   • Optional: a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper
   • Heat to a very gentle simmer, then reduce to low.
2. Warm the slices
3. Add a portion of your sliced beef to the hot liquid for 1–2 minutes.
4. Do NOT boil—just warm until heated through.
5. Remove with tongs, letting any excess liquid drip off so the bun doesn’t get soggy.

5. Toast the Bun

1. Butter or mayo on the bun
2. Lightly spread butter or mayo on the cut sides of the bun.
3. Toast in a hot skillet, on a griddle, or under the broiler until golden and slightly crisp around the edges but still soft inside.

6. Assemble Your Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef Sandwich

1. Stack the beef
   • Pile about 8 oz of warm, thinly sliced roast beef onto the bottom half of the toasted bun.
   • Loosely fold and layer the slices so they look tall and fluffy, not compressed.
2. Add sauces (optional but very “Arby’s”)
   • Spread Arby ’s-style sauce and/or horsey sauce on the top bun.
   • You can drizzle a little over the meat as well if you like it saucy.
3. Finish and serve
   • Place the cap on the top bun and serve immediately.
   • Pair the Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef with curly fries or regular fries for a full fast-food experience.

Tips for Getting Close to Arby’s

1. Eye of round is lean and firm, so it slices very thinly and holds its shape. That’s what gives you that classic deli‑style bite.
2. Don’t overcook; Arby’s beef is quite tender, not gray or dry. Aim for medium-rare to medium for best results.
3. Use a meat thermometer rather than guessing.
4. Chill first, slice thin, then briefly warm the slices in flavorful broth. That’s the closest approach to the real process.
5. Seasoning: go gentle, not overpowering
6. Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef is mild, not strongly herby or spicy. Keep flavors simple and mainly savory.
7. You can cook the roast 1–2 days ahead, refrigerate it, slice as needed, and warm portions in jus for quick sandwiches.

What to serve with

Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef is already a hearty, satisfying sandwich, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can elevate your meal to a true fast-food-inspired feast or a well-balanced spread.

1. Curly Fries

• Arby’s curly fries are iconic—crispy, seasoned, and slightly spicy.
• Homemade version: Use spiral-sliced potatoes or a fry cutter, toss with seasoned flour (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper), and bake or deep-fry until crisp.
• Add ketchup or Arby’s sauce for dipping.

2. Potato Wedges

• Thick, crispy potato wedges are another popular fast-food option.
• Make-at-home: Toss potato wedges in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Roast in the oven until golden and crispy.

3. Mozzarella Sticks

• A great option if you’re craving extra indulgence! These cheesy, crispy sticks add a fun, decadent touch.
• Pair them with marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.

4. Side Salad

• Add balance to the Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef sandwich with a small mixed green salad.
• Keep it simple with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette or ranch dressing.

Ingredients Substitutes

When aiming to replicate Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef at home, you may encounter situations where you lack specific ingredients or simply prefer alternatives due to dietary needs or personal preference.

1. Beef Roast Substitute

Original: Eye of Round Roast or Top Round Roast

Substitutes:

• Bottom Round Roast: Similar in texture and flavor to eye of round, though it may be slightly less tender. It slices thinly, making it a good alternative.
• Rump Roast or Sirloin Tip Roast: These cuts are slightly more marbled, resulting in more tender, flavorful roast beef. Ensure you slice thinly.
• Pork Loin: For a different flavor profile (and if you’re avoiding red meat), pork loin can work. It’s lean and can be seasoned similarly, but cook to an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).

2. Seasoning Substitute

Original Dry Rub: Salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, sugar

Substitutes:

• Pre-Made Beef Rub: Many brands offer steak or beef rubs that capture a similar savoury essence. Check labels for salt levels to adjust accordingly.
• Herbs de Provence with Extra Paprika: This blend adds aromatics and can replace individual herbs and spices.
• Mixed Italian Herbs: Use in conjunction with garlic powder and paprika to approximate the seasoning profile.

3. Broth Substitute

Original: Beef Broth

Substitutes:

• Vegetable Broth or Mushroom Broth: Ideal for those wanting a vegetarian or lighter base; use them to capture the umami notes.
• Chicken Broth: In a pinch, a low-sodium chicken broth can work; consider boosting it with soy sauce or Worcestershire to deepen the flavor.
• Miso Paste and Water: Incorporate a small amount of miso paste with water to add depth and umami (great for flavor when using plant-based meat substitutes).

4. Bun Substitute

Original: Sesame Seed Bun

Substitutes:

• Brioche Bun: Soft, slightly sweet, and rich, offering an elevated touch.
• Whole Wheat Bun: Provides a healthier option with additional fiber.
• Gluten-Free Bun: For those with dietary restrictions related to gluten, several brands offer high-quality gluten-free burger buns.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, large leaves of iceberg lettuce or butterhead lettuce work well.

5. Arby’s Sauce Substitute

Original: Homemade blend of ketchup, Worcestershire, and spices

Substitutes:

• BBQ Sauce: A store-bought barbecue sauce can replicate tanginess and sweetness; choose a style that leans tangy over smoky.
• Ketchup with a Dash of Vinegar and Sugar: Simmer ketchup with a splash of apple cider vinegar and a pinch of sugar, garlic powder, and a little black pepper for a quick homemade version.

6. Horsey Sauce Substitute

Original: Mayo with horseradish

Substitutes:

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt Blend: Mix with prepared horseradish for a tangy, creamy consistency.
• Vegan Mayo with Horseradish: Works well if you want a plant-based option that maintains the creamy texture.
• Spicy Mustard and Mayo Combo: For spice enthusiasts, blend Dijon or spicy brown mustard with mayo for a horseradish-like punch.

Final Thoughts

Serve your Arby’s Half Pound Roast Beef Sandwich on a parchment-lined platter, alongside a small dish of sauce and a generous pile of crispy fries. Add a chilled drink — bonus points for serving in frosted mugs or tall glasses. It’ll look and taste like a restaurant-quality meal!

More Arby’s Recipes:

• Copycat Arby’s Meat Mountain Sandwich Recipe
• Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sloppy Joes Recipe
• Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sauce Recipe