Classic Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound of roast beef, thinly sliced
4 slices of sourdough bread
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
4 slices of cheddar cheese
1/4 cup of mayonnaise
1/4 cup of horseradish sauce
4 lettuce leaves
1 tomato, thin sliced
1 red onion, thin sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Spread the softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Place the bread slices, butter side down, on the skillet.
On two of the bread slices, layer the cheese, roast beef, lettuce, tomato, and onion. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread mayonnaise and horseradish sauce on the inside of the remaining two bread slices.
Place the bread slices with the sauces on top of the layered ingredients, sauce side down.
Cook the sandwiches until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. You can press down the sandwiches with a spatula for better toasting.
Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before cutting in half. Serve warm.

Tools for making

Skillet or griddle - A large skillet or griddle is needed to cook the sandwiches.
Spatula - Used for flipping the sandwiches and pressing them down for even toasting.
Knife - To slice the tomato and onion.
Cutting board - To safely cut the tomato and onion.
Butter knife - For spreading the softened butter on the bread slices.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of bread, such as ciabatta, whole wheat, or rye.
Try different types of cheese, such as Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack.
Add additional toppings like pickles, roasted bell peppers, or avocado slices.
Replace the roast beef with sliced turkey, ham, or chicken for a different protein option.
Make it vegetarian by using grilled vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers instead of meat.
Add a spread or condiment, such as Dijon mustard, pesto, or barbecue sauce, for extra flavor.
Experiment with different seasonings or spices, like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
Make it spicy by adding jalapenos or hot sauce to the sandwich.
For a crunchier texture, lightly toast the bread before assembling the sandwich.

Recipe overview

This Roast Beef Sandwich recipe is a classic, hearty, and full of flavor meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. With a combination of tender, thinly sliced roast beef, tangy horseradish sauce, creamy mayonnaise, and melted cheddar cheese, it's a sandwich that's sure to satisfy. Fresh lettuce, tomato, and thin slices of red onion add a refreshing crunch, and it's all served between two slices of buttery toasted sourdough bread. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, with simple ingredients that pack a punch. The result is a delicious, gourmet sandwich that can be made right at home. From preparation to taking your first bite, expect a truly delectable experience. Enjoy!

Common questions

How do I choose the right cut of roast beef for this sandwich?
Look for a lean and tender cut of roast beef, such as eye round or top round. Ask your butcher for thinly sliced roast beef that is suitable for sandwiches.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough bread adds a delicious tangy flavor, you can use any bread of your preference, such as whole wheat, ciabatta, or French bread.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It's best to assemble and cook the sandwich just before serving to ensure the bread stays crispy and the fillings stay fresh. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble the sandwich right before cooking.
Can I substitute the horseradish sauce?
If you're not a fan of horseradish, you can substitute it with Dijon mustard or a creamy spicy mustard for a different flavor profile.
Can I add or remove ingredients?
Feel free to customize the sandwich to your liking! You can add additional toppings like pickles, avocado, or bacon, or remove any ingredients that you don't enjoy.
Can I use pre-sliced roast beef from the store?
Yes, you can use pre-sliced roast beef from the store if you prefer. Just make sure it is thinly sliced and of good quality.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - Used for slicing the roast beef, tomato, and onion.
Chef's knife - Essential for slicing the roast beef, tomato, and onion.
Skillet or griddle - Used for toasting the sandwiches.
Spatula - Used for flipping and pressing down the sandwiches while they cook.
Butter knife - Used for spreading butter, mayonnaise, and horseradish sauce on the bread slices.

Origin stories

The sandwich, as we know it today, was popularized in England in 1762 by John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich. Legend has it, and most food historians agree, that Montagu had a substantial gambling problem which led to him spending hours on end at the card table. During a particularly long binge, he asked the house cook to bring him something he could eat without getting up from his seat, and without also greasing up his cards and betting chips. The cook presented him with sliced roast beef tucked between two pieces of toast, thus allowing the Earl to maintain his gaming streak and nourish himself all the while. This portable, non-messy form of meal became an instant hit and soon others were ordering "the same as Sandwich," hence giving birth to the name. This trivia about the roast beef sandwich's origin always serves as a reminder that some of our most beloved foods have quite the storied past.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.