Slow Cooker Beef Cheddar

Forget the drive-thru This recipe makes the ultimate beef and cheddar sandwiches right at home Tender shredded chuck roast simmers all day in a zesty sauce then gets piled high on onion rolls with silky cheddar cheese sauce The kitchen smells incredible all afternoon and every bite takes me back to classic takeout flavors in the very best way

I love making this when friends come over for game day because I can fix everything ahead No more missing the fun because I am tied to the stove

Ingredients

• Chuck roast: the star of the sandwich Choose one with good marbling for ultra tender results
• Dried minced onion: layers in savory flavor without chopping fresh
• Montreal steak seasoning: brings bold peppery notes and a hint of smoke
• Worcestershire sauce: boosts umami and depth Shop for one without too much added sugar
• Arbys sauce: zesty and tangy use the real thing or a spicy barbecue sauce if you need a substitute
• Cheddar cheese sauce: the creamy topping that takes it to true comfort food territory Look for Ricos or a sharp cheddar-based sauce for best melt and flavor
• Onion rolls: classic for this sandwich but any quality bun can work Pick rolls that feel springy and fresh

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Roast:

Place your chuck roast right into the bottom of the slow cooker Make sure it fits with space around each side so the heat can circulate This gives the best texture

Season Generously:

Evenly sprinkle dried minced onion and Montreal steak seasoning over the top of the roast Press them lightly with clean hands so the spices cling to the meat

Add the Liquids:

Drizzle Worcestershire sauce over the roast letting it drip into every nook Pour Arbys sauce evenly so the entire top is coated This helps flavor the beef as it cooks

Slow Cook until Tender:

Set your slow cooker on LOW for eight hours or HIGH for four hours The roast should be fall apart tender when done Every slow cooker heats a bit differently so keep an eye on it the first time you make this

Shred and Simmer:

Once the beef is tender use two forks to shred it directly in the cooker Stir well to mix with all the juices Switch the slow cooker to WARM to hold the shredded beef until you are ready to serve

Warm the Cheese Sauce:

Heat cheddar cheese sauce in the microwave or on the stove until hot and pourable Stir well so it is smooth and creamy

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Pile the hot shredded beef high onto onion rolls Spoon warm cheddar cheese sauce over each sandwich and add a little extra Arbys sauce if you like

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I think Arbys sauce really makes this sing One time my dad asked for an extra saucy version and now we keep a jar in the fridge just for these sandwiches

Storage Tips

Keep any leftover beef covered in the fridge for up to three days The flavor deepens overnight making it even better for next day lunches If you want to freeze the beef let it cool completely and store in a freezer safe container for up to three months Thaw gently in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutes

Chuck roast works best but you can swap in bottom round or brisket if that is what you have For the cheese sauce try melting shredded cheddar with a splash of milk and a pinch of salt if you are out of store bought versions For the seasoning plain salt and pepper with a pinch of garlic powder works in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

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These sandwiches are perfect with a handful of kettle chips on the side or a pile of coleslaw For a real takeout night at home add seasoned curly fries or sweet potato wedges and a crunchy pickle spear

Historical Background

Beef and cheddar sandwiches go back decades in American fast food culture Inspired by roadside diners with their classic roast beef and cheese combos this recipe brings those nostalgic flavors to the home kitchen with the bonus of real ingredients and personal touches

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of beef is best for these sandwiches?

Chuck roast is recommended for its marbling, which leads to tender, flavorful shredded beef after slow cooking.

→ Can I use a different sauce if I don’t have Arby’s sauce?

Yes, a spicy barbecue sauce makes a great substitute and still adds a tangy, robust flavor to the beef.

→ What’s the best cheese for these sandwiches?

Cheddar cheese sauce melts easily, but you can also use shredded or sliced cheddar to achieve a creamy, rich finish.

→ Do I need to toast the onion rolls?

Toasting the buns adds an extra crunch and helps keep them from getting soggy under the juicy beef and cheese.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover beef covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble fresh sandwiches as needed.

→ Can I make sliders instead of full-size sandwiches?

Absolutely! Use dinner rolls for slider-sized portions, perfect for parties or smaller appetites.