Irresistible Roast Beef Sliders

These Roast Beef Sliders redefine comfort food. Imagine tender, thinly sliced roast beef, perfectly melted Swiss cheese, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls, and crowned with an irresistible savory herb-butter topping. This easy-to-make recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion craving delicious, satisfying bites.

Roast Beef Sliders: An Irresistible Arby’s Copycat Recipe!

There’s something uniquely comforting about a classic roast beef sandwich, and these sliders take that experience to a whole new level. Inspired by the beloved Arby’s roast beef sliders, this homemade version captures all the familiar flavors and textures you adore, but with the added warmth and freshness of a home-baked dish. During a particularly picky pregnancy, Arby’s sliders were one of the few foods I could truly enjoy. This unwavering craving led to countless visits and an intimate understanding of what makes them so good. It became my mission to recreate that magic at home, resulting in this phenomenal recipe.

This recipe builds upon the massive success of my viral French Dip Sliders, which have been pinned over a million times. While those are fantastic, this version offers a distinct flavor profile with savory roast beef, creamy Swiss cheese, a hint of tangy horsey sauce, and a buttery, herb-infused topping that bakes into a golden perfection. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone who loves a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal or appetizer.

Essential Roast Beef Sliders Ingredients

Crafting the perfect roast beef slider starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make these sliders so special. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

For the Sliders:

• Hawaiian Rolls: The foundation of these delectable sliders. Opt for soft, fresh Hawaiian sweet rolls. Their slightly sweet flavor beautifully complements the savory roast beef and rich butter topping, creating a delightful sweet and salty balance. The soft texture also ensures they absorb the butter topping perfectly without becoming soggy. If you’re feeling ambitious, you could even try making your own dinner rolls from scratch!
• Mayonnaise: A good quality mayonnaise adds essential creaminess and acts as a binder for the horsey sauce. I highly recommend using a full-fat mayo like Best Foods® or Hellmann’s for the richest flavor and best texture.
• Horsey Sauce: This tangy, zesty sauce is what truly elevates these sliders to an “Arby’s copycat” status. Its horseradish kick cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese, adding a unique depth of flavor. You can find Arby’s branded horsey sauce in many grocery stores, or even at some Arby’s locations. If it’s unavailable, don’t fret; the sliders are still incredibly delicious without it, or you can whip up a simple homemade version by mixing mayo, horseradish, a dash of vinegar, and a pinch of sugar.
• Deli Roast Beef: The star of the show! For the most tender and juicy sliders, ask your deli for thinly sliced roast beef, preferably rare or medium-rare. Thinner slices ensure even distribution and prevent the meat from becoming tough or dry during baking. The rare quality helps it retain moisture and tenderness.
• Swiss Cheese: Its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and excellent melting properties make Swiss cheese the ideal companion for roast beef. Look for thinly sliced Swiss cheese to ensure it melts evenly and beautifully over the warm beef.

For the Irresistible Herb-Butter Topping:

This savory butter topping is the secret weapon that transforms these sliders from good to extraordinary. It infuses the rolls with incredible flavor and creates a golden, slightly crispy crust.

• Unsalted Butter: The base for our flavorful topping. Melt it gently in the microwave or a small saucepan, then allow it to cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients. Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Dried Minced Onion: Adds a savory, aromatic onion flavor that permeates the rolls. If you’re not a huge fan of onion, or simply prefer garlic, feel free to substitute with dried minced garlic for a different but equally delicious twist.
• Dijon Mustard: A tablespoon of Dijon mustard provides a subtle tanginess that balances the richness of the butter and adds a layer of complex flavor. It also helps to emulsify the topping slightly, ensuring a smooth spread.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Just a small amount of Worcestershire sauce contributes a rich, umami depth to the topping. Its savory notes enhance the beef flavor. If you’re monitoring sodium intake, look for low-sodium versions.
• Poppy Seeds: These tiny seeds add a fantastic subtle crunch and a beautiful visual appeal to the sliders. They also contribute a mild, nutty flavor. Don’t let any leftovers go to waste; they’re excellent in my favorite Poppy Seed Dressing!
• Garlic Powder: For a consistent, mellow garlic flavor that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients in the butter topping.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors and bring everything into perfect harmony.

Simple Steps to Make Delicious Roast Beef Sliders

Making these roast beef sliders is incredibly straightforward, perfect for even novice cooks. Follow these easy steps to create a batch of hot, cheesy, and utterly delicious sliders:

1. Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or sheet pan with cooking spray. For easier cleanup, you can also line it with parchment paper.
2. Slice the Rolls: Take your package of Hawaiian rolls and carefully slice the entire slab horizontally. The goal is to separate the top half from the bottom half while keeping all the individual rolls connected within each “slab.” This allows you to open them like a book, making assembly much simpler.
3. Craft the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and horsey sauce until thoroughly combined and smooth. This creates a flavorful, tangy spread for your rolls.
4. Layer the Base: Carefully spread the mayo-horsey sauce mixture onto the cut sides of both the top and bottom sections of the rolls. Place the bottom slab of rolls into your prepared baking dish. Arrange six slices of Swiss cheese evenly over the bottom rolls, followed by a generous layer of the thinly sliced roast beef. Finally, top the roast beef with the remaining six slices of Swiss cheese.
5. Initial Baking for Melted Cheese: Place the baking dish (with only the bottom rolls, beef, and cheese layers) into the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This initial bake helps the cheese melt beautifully and adhere to the roast beef, creating that irresistible gooey texture.
6. Prepare the Herb-Butter Topping: While the cheese is melting, combine all the ingredients for the herb-butter topping (melted butter, dried minced onion, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, poppy seeds, garlic powder, salt, and pepper) in a separate bowl. Whisk briskly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
7. Final Assembly and Bake: Remove the dish from the oven. Carefully place the top slab of rolls over the melted cheese and roast beef. Generously pour and brush the herb-butter topping all over the top and sides of the rolls, ensuring every bit of bread is covered. Don’t worry if some butter pools at the bottom; it will help crisp up the base of the sliders. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and return it to the oven for another 20 minutes.
8. Achieve Golden Perfection: After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are beautifully golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for just a minute or two before slicing into individual sliders. Serve them hot and watch them disappear!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Roast Beef Sliders

Roast Beef Sliders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of side dishes. Whether you’re aiming for a light accompaniment or a hearty meal, here are some fantastic ideas to complete your spread:

1. Fresh Salads: A crisp, refreshing salad provides a wonderful contrast to the rich sliders. Consider a simple Italian salad with a zesty vinaigrette, or a tangy coleslaw for a crunchy, creamy side. A green salad with a light lemon dressing would also be excellent.
2. Hearty Potatoes: For a more substantial meal, potato sides are always a hit. Classic French fries, creamy potato salad, or savory roasted potatoes make comforting and filling companions. Sweet potato fries also offer a delightful alternative.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Adding a vibrant vegetable side can brighten up the plate and provide essential nutrients. Try simple roasted veggies like tender carrots, crispy Parmesan Brussels sprouts, or a medley of bell peppers and zucchini.
4. Pasta Salad: A cold, zesty pasta salad is a fantastic option, especially for gatherings or potlucks. This Italian-dressed corn, zucchini, and avocado pasta salad adds a refreshing and flavorful touch that complements the sliders beautifully.
5. Soup: For a cozy meal, particularly in cooler weather, serve your sliders with a comforting bowl of French onion soup or a creamy tomato soup for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Roast Beef Sliders Every Time

While these sliders are easy to make, a few expert tips can ensure they turn out absolutely perfect:

• Don’t Overcook the Roast Beef: Opt for rare or medium-rare deli roast beef. Overcooking can dry out the beef, making it tough. The short baking time is just enough to heat it through and melt the cheese without compromising tenderness.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your mayonnaise and butter to room temperature can help them mix more smoothly and spread more easily.
• Even Butter Distribution: When applying the herb-butter topping, make sure to brush it evenly over the tops and sides of the rolls. This ensures a consistent golden crust and maximum flavor in every bite.
• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Greasing the pan generously and using parchment paper can help, but a little pooling butter at the bottom isn’t a bad thing! It crisps up the bottom of the rolls slightly, adding a delightful texture. For extra crispiness, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
• Customize Your Cheese: While Swiss is classic, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone, sharp cheddar, or even a blend for a different flavor profile.

Delicious Variations to Try

These roast beef sliders are fantastic as is, but they’re also incredibly adaptable. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients:

• Cheese Swaps: Not a fan of Swiss? Try provolone for a sharper taste, mild cheddar for familiarity, or Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
• Meat Alternatives: While roast beef is classic, you can easily adapt this recipe for other deli meats. Thinly sliced turkey, ham, or even a mix of meats would work wonderfully.
• Sauce Experimentation: If horsey sauce isn’t your thing, consider a simple garlic aioli, a creamy ranch dressing, or even a smoky BBQ sauce for a different flavor experience.
• Add Veggies: For a nutritional boost, try adding thinly sliced caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers between the cheese and beef layers.
• Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the butter topping or a few slices of jalapeño with the beef can add a nice heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making roast beef sliders:

Can I prepare these roast beef sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can certainly do some prep work in advance. You can slice the rolls, mix the mayo-horsey sauce, and even assemble the bottom layers (rolls, cheese, roast beef, cheese) in the baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 12-24 hours. When ready to bake, prepare the butter topping, add the top rolls, brush with butter, and proceed with baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for starting with a cold dish.

Can I freeze roast beef sliders?

While you can freeze baked sliders, the texture of the rolls and cheese might change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If freezing, bake completely, then let cool. Wrap individual sliders or the whole slab tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Freeze for up to 1-2 months. Reheat from frozen, covered, in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warmed through, then uncover to crisp up.

What if I don’t like horsey sauce?

No problem at all! The sliders are still delicious without it. You can simply use mayonnaise as the spread, or try a different sauce like a creamy garlic aioli, a touch of mustard (honey mustard or yellow mustard), or even a little ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?

A few tips can help: ensure your butter topping isn’t scorching hot when applied, as this can make the rolls absorb too much liquid too quickly. Also, the initial bake without the top rolls helps seal the bottom. Don’t overdo the sauce on the rolls, and remember that some slight crisping will happen on the bottom due to the butter in the pan.

Can I use different types of rolls?

Hawaiian sweet rolls are highly recommended for their unique sweet-savory balance and soft texture. However, you can experiment with other slider buns or dinner rolls. Brioche buns would offer a similar rich, slightly sweet profile, while standard dinner rolls would work if you prefer a less sweet base.

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5 from 1 vote

Easy Roast Beef Sliders Recipe

By Chelsea Lords

Roast Beef Sliders feature tender beef, melty Swiss, and a buttery topping—comfort food the whole family will love!

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 sliders

Video

Equipment

• Sheet pan (15″ x 10″) 9 x 13-inch
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

• ▢ Cooking spray

Sliders

• ▢ 12-count package Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls see note 1
• ▢ 1/3 cup mayo
• ▢ 2 tablespoons horsey sauce optional, see note 2
• ▢ 3/4 up to 1 pound deli roast beef ask for rare from deli—see note 3
• ▢ 12 slices swiss cheese

Herb-Butter Topping

• ▢ 7 tablespoons unsalted butter melted, but not hot
• ▢ 1-1/2 teaspoons dried minced onion
• ▢ 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
• ▢ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ▢ 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions 

• Generously grease a 9×13-inch sheet pan with cooking spray and line with parchment paper. Preheat oven to 350°F. Slice the slab of rolls in half horizontally, keeping individual rolls intact (see note 1 for pictures).
• Whisk mayo and horsey sauce together. Spread mixture evenly across the inside surfaces of both the base and the top of the rolls.
• Place the base slab in the pan and top with 6 slices of cheese. Add roast beef on top then add the remaining 6 slices of cheese on top of the meat.
• Bake without the top for 10 minutes, to let the cheese melt. Meanwhile, combine all “Topping” ingredients and briskly whisk until smooth.
• Remove pan from oven and add the top slab of rolls. Pour the topping mixture all over, brushing generously on top and on the sides of the rolls. Be sure to cover all the bread (except the bottoms). (It’s fine if you don’t use it all or some of the butter pools at the bottom—it will make the base crispy!)
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 5–10 minutes or until golden brown on top and cheese is melty.
• Cut and serve while hot. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Keep the rolls intact and slice them in half horizontally so they open like a book.

Note 2: The horsey sauce adds a unique, tangy flavor. Grab Arby’s horsey sauce from your local Arby’s or grocery store. If you can’t find it, don’t worry, these sliders are still tasty without it!

Note 3: For the juiciest sliders, ask for the rarest roast beef from the deli counter to ensure it stays tender and doesn’t overcook during baking.

Storage: Store cooled sliders, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 378kcal | Carbohydrates: 23.3g | Protein: 17.9g | Fat: 23.4g | Cholesterol: 63.2mg | Sodium: 432.7mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3.4g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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