Craving that iconic Arby's Beef & Cheddar? Forget the drive-thru – today, we're making a ridiculously delicious, homemade version that's just as satisfying, if not more so! This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a satisfying weekend lunch. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this surprisingly simple, yet incredibly flavorful, recreation of a fast-food favorite. Let's dive into this delicious adventure!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- For the Beef:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Arby's Sauce (recipe below, or your favorite BBQ sauce)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For the Arby's Sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- For Assembly:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles
Instructions:
Preparing the Arby's Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together all Arby's sauce ingredients.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside. This sauce is a great addition to many dishes, even beyond this recipe!
Cooking the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the Arby's sauce (or your preferred BBQ sauce), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Assembling the Sandwiches:
- Place the cooked beef mixture on the bottom halves of the hamburger buns.
- Top each with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese.
- Place the top halves of the buns on top.
- Add your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, or pickles, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked beef can be dry. Aim for a juicy, flavorful patty.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.
- Use good quality cheese: The sharp cheddar is key to the authentic Arby's flavor.
- Toast the buns: Toasting the buns adds a nice crunch and enhances the overall flavor of the sandwich.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef & Cheddar: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicier kick.
- Swiss Cheese Variation: Substitute Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add Bacon: Crispy bacon adds another layer of deliciousness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This homemade Arby's Beef & Cheddar is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly easy to make. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a casual weekend meal. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating this fast-food favorite in your own kitchen! It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite, showcasing the best recipes and making homemade cooking an enjoyable experience.