how to make arbys roast beef

3 min read 09-01-2025

Arby's roast beef is iconic. That thinly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth meat, nestled in a toasted bun with its signature sauce… pure deliciousness. While you can't perfectly replicate a fast-food restaurant's exact process, this recipe gets remarkably close to that Arby's taste. Get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade version!

Understanding the Arby's Roast Beef Flavor Profile

Before diving into the recipe, let's break down what makes Arby's roast beef so unique. It's not just about the beef; it's the combination of factors that contribute to its distinctive flavor:

Thinly Sliced Beef: The ultra-thin slicing is key to the tender texture.
Marination and Seasoning: A specific blend of herbs and spices creates that signature savory taste.
Cooking Method: Arby's likely uses a process involving slow roasting, possibly even a combination of methods for optimal tenderness and flavor.

This recipe aims to approximate these elements to achieve the closest possible Arby's roast beef at home.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this delicious roast beef, gather the following ingredients:

3-4 lbs beef eye of round roast (or top round)
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Arby's Roast Beef

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and salt.

2. Marinate the Beef: Place the beef roast in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the roast, ensuring it's fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.

3. Slow Roast the Beef: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the marinated roast in a roasting pan. Add about 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking.

4. Roast to Perfection: Roast the beef for approximately 2-3 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare. Remember that the roast will continue to cook slightly as it rests.

5. Rest and Slice: Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.

6. Thinly Slice: Use a very sharp knife or a meat slicer to thinly slice the roast against the grain. This is crucial for achieving that characteristic Arby's texture.

Arby's Sauce Copycat Recipe (Optional)

While you can enjoy your roast beef on its own, adding a homemade Arby's sauce elevates the experience. Here's a simple recipe:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup horseradish
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Adjust seasonings to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade Arby's roast beef on toasted sub rolls or your favorite bread. Add the Arby's sauce, and maybe some crisp lettuce and tomato for a complete Arby's-inspired sandwich experience.

Conclusion

Making a delicious roast beef at home, reminiscent of Arby's, is achievable with this recipe. While you may not perfectly replicate the fast-food chain's precise methods, this recipe provides an excellent approximation of that iconic taste and texture. Enjoy your homemade Arby's-style roast beef! Remember to experiment with seasonings and marinating times to fine-tune it to your taste. Let me know in the comments how yours turns out!