Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt
This indulgent yet satisfying Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt features tender, thinly sliced roast beef piled high on toasted sourdough, topped with melted sharp cheddar, caramelized onions, and a touch of horseradish cream sauce. It’s a hearty, protein-packed sandwich that’s perfect for a cozy, healthy-ish dinner or lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt is the ultimate comfort sandwich that feels like a restaurant classic but is surprisingly easy to make at home! Juicy, flavorful roast beef pairs perfectly with the rich, melty sharpness of cheddar, while caramelized onions add sweet depth and the horseradish cream brings a bright, tangy kick. Toasted sourdough gives that perfect crisp exterior and soft interior. It’s high in lean protein, filling without being overly heavy, and feels indulgent while still being a healthier dinner option when made with quality ingredients. Quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests—this melt is guaranteed to become your new favorite way to enjoy roast beef!
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use good-quality deli roast beef (or leftover homemade roast) sliced very thin for the best texture.
- Caramelize onions slowly over low heat for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Toast the bread lightly before assembling so it stays crisp after the cheese melts.
- Spread horseradish cream on both slices of bread to keep the sandwich moist and flavorful.
- Use a panini press or heavy skillet with a weight on top for even melting and golden crust.
- Let the sandwich rest 1–2 minutes after grilling so the cheese sets and doesn’t ooze out.
Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt
Tender roast beef, melty cheddar & caramelized onions on toasted sourdough—comforting, flavorful melt!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter or mayonnaise (for spreading)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 4 thick slices sourdough bread
- 8 oz thinly sliced deli roast beef (or leftover roast)
- 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- Optional: arugula or spinach leaves
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions! Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, season with a pinch of salt, and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden.
- Make the horseradish cream! In a small bowl, mix sour cream and prepared horseradish—add salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep the bread! Lay out all 4 slices of sourdough. Spread a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise on one side of each slice—this will create a golden, crispy exterior.
- Start layering! Flip two slices over so the buttered side is down. Spread a generous layer of horseradish cream on each.
- Add the roast beef! Divide the thinly sliced roast beef evenly between the two bread slices—pile it high!
- Top with onions! Spoon the warm caramelized onions over the roast beef—they add incredible sweetness and depth.
- Cheese it up! Layer 3–4 slices of cheddar cheese over each sandwich—make sure it covers the filling completely.
- Finish the sandwich! Top with the remaining two bread slices (buttered side facing out). Press down gently.
- Grill to perfection! Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Slice and serve! Remove from the skillet, let rest 1 minute, slice in half diagonally, and serve immediately—enjoy every juicy, cheesy, comforting bite!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a thin layer of horseradish cream inside the sandwich too.
- This sandwich is naturally high in protein and can be made lighter with reduced-fat cheese.
- Perfect for using leftover roast beef from Sunday dinner!
Nutrition Information
Yield
2Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 851Total Fat 43gSaturated Fat 12gUnsaturated Fat 32gCholesterol 96mgSodium 1988mgCarbohydrates 76gFiber 4gSugar 11gProtein 40g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes
- Roast beef: Thinly sliced deli roast beef (or leftover homemade) — look for high-quality, low-sodium options for the best flavor and texture.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully—grate fresh for superior melting.
- Sourdough bread: Sturdy, tangy bread with a crisp crust and soft interior—perfect for holding the juicy filling.
- Onions: Yellow or sweet onions caramelize into sweet, jammy goodness that balances the richness.
- Horseradish cream sauce: Made with prepared horseradish and sour cream—adds bright, spicy tang that cuts through the richness.
- Butter or mayonnaise: For brushing the outside—mayo gives extra golden crispiness.
Variations and Substitutions
- Healthier version: Use whole-grain bread, reduced-fat cheddar, and light sour cream in the horseradish sauce.
- Spicy melt: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the horseradish cream.
- Different cheese: Try provolone, Swiss, or smoked gouda for variety.
- Add veggies: Include arugula, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrients.
- Low-carb: Serve open-faced on one slice or in lettuce wraps.
- Extra protein: Add crispy bacon or a fried egg for a breakfast-style melt.
- Vegetarian: Use grilled portobello mushrooms instead of roast beef.
Storage Options
Best enjoyed fresh while the bread is crispy and cheese is melty. If needed, assemble without toasting and store in the refrigerator (wrapped tightly) for up to 4 hours. Reheat gently in a skillet or panini press to re-crisp the bread and re-melt the cheese. Not recommended for freezing.
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