Name: Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices of sourdough bread; 1 pound of thinly sliced roast beef; 8 slices of sharp cheddar cheese; 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh arugula or spinach (optional, for garnish)

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I absolutely love sharing my favorite comfort foods, and this Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich Recipe is one of those that always hits the spot. It’s the perfect blend of hearty roast beef, sharp, melty cheddar, and golden, buttery sourdough bread. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly satisfying and delicious. It’s my go-to sandwich when I want something quick, tasty, and comforting all at once.

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich Recipe

What sets this sandwich apart for me is its incredible flavor profile. The sharpness of the cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the warm roast beef, creating a rich, savory combination that feels indulgent but never over the top. The slight tang from the optional Dijon mustard adds a gentle kick, while the buttery, crispy sourdough bread ties it all together with wonderful texture. I love how every bite is a little explosion of flavor and comfort.

Beyond taste, I adore how easy this Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich Recipe is to prepare. It takes me less than 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Whether you serve it for lunch, a casual dinner, or even a cozy weekend brunch, it always feels like a special treat. Its versatility and fast prep really make it a standout recipe in my kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A sandwich is held by two hands, showing three main layers: the top and bottom slices of rustic brown bread with a rough texture, a middle layer of thinly sliced, browned meat, and a layer of melted light yellow cheese on top of the meat. There is also a spread of grainy mustard visible just under the top bread slice. The sandwich rests above a white plate filled with golden-yellow, crispy potato chips. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this sandwich truly shine, I rely on a handful of essential ingredients that bring together robust flavors and delightful textures. Each component plays an important role in crafting a perfectly balanced and mouthwatering sandwich that’s easy to assemble yet irresistible.

Pro Tip ✨

Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Sourdough bread: Its tangy flavor and sturdy texture create the perfect base that crisps up beautifully when toasted.
Thinly sliced roast beef: Use good-quality deli roast beef for tender, flavorful layers that feel luxurious in every bite.
Sharp cheddar cheese: The boldness of this cheese melts to gooey perfection and complements the beef wonderfully.
Unsalted butter: Butter allows the bread to toast evenly with a rich, golden crust without overpowering other flavors.
Dijon mustard (optional): Adds just the right touch of tangy zest that lifts the whole sandwich.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to make sure the filling flavors pop without overshadowing the cheddar’s sharpness.
Fresh arugula or spinach (optional): Adds a peppery, fresh bite and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the melt.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat so it’s ready to toast your sandwich evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Spread 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will give you that beautifully crisp, golden exterior.

Step 3: Place a slice of bread butter-side down onto the skillet to start building your sandwich base.

Step 4: On the unbuttered side of the bread in the skillet, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard if you’re using it—it really brightens up the flavors.

Step 5: Layer several slices of thinly sliced roast beef over the mustard, then add two slices of sharp cheddar cheese on top for that irresistible melty goo.

Step 6: Top your sandwich with another slice of bread, making sure the buttered side faces up to toast as it cooks.

Step 7: Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the bread turns a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese starts to melt nicely.

Step 8: Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula and cook the other side for another 3 to 5 minutes until it’s just as beautifully golden and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 9: Once done, transfer the sandwich off the heat and let it cool slightly so the cheese sets just a bit for easier slicing.

Step 10: Slice your sandwich in half or quarters depending on your preference and get ready to dive into pure deliciousness.

Servings and Timing

This Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich Recipe makes 4 hearty sandwiches, perfect for sharing with family or a small group of friends. The prep time is about 7 minutes, and the cook time is roughly 10 minutes, adding up to a total time of 17 minutes. There’s just a brief resting time after cooking to let the cheese settle, making this a quick yet utterly satisfying meal option.

How to Serve This Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich Recipe

The dish shows two sandwich halves stacked on a white plate with a simple leaf design near the edge. The sandwich has three layers: the outer layers are toasted brown bread with a slightly dark, crispy texture, and the middle layers include a thick layer of shredded cooked meat with a grayish-brown color, mixed with melted white cheese and a spread of yellow mustard. On the right side of the plate, there is a small pile of light golden French fries with a soft texture. In the background, there is a small white bowl with a creamy yellow sauce. The surface beneath the plate is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I love serving this sandwich warm, right from the skillet, when the cheddar is perfectly melted and the bread is crisp. It pairs brilliantly with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette—something fresh to balance the rich flavors. If you want something a little heartier, roasted potatoes or classic kettle chips give just the right crunch and comfort factor alongside.

For presentation, I like to add a small handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach right inside or on the side to add a pop of bright green color and a subtle peppery note. When plating, cutting your sandwich into halves or quarters makes it feel more shareable and inviting, especially for casual gatherings or family dinners.

When it comes to beverages, I’ve found that a cold craft beer, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or even a robust iced tea complements the flavors wonderfully. This sandwich is a versatile crowd-pleaser—perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to casual weekend lunches or even a chic picnic with friends.

Variations

I often swap out the roast beef for other proteins like turkey or ham if I’m in the mood for something different but just as delicious. You can also switch the sharp cheddar to Swiss or provolone for a milder, creamier melt that still pairs wonderfully with the beef. For a touch of extra flavor, adding caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms inside is absolutely divine.

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, I recommend using gluten-free sandwich bread—there are some excellent varieties out there that toast just as well as sourdough. For my vegan friends, you can recreate a similar melt using plant-based roast beef alternatives and vegan cheddar. Just swap the butter for a plant-based spread and you’re good to go!

For a different cooking method, sometimes I toast the sandwiches in a panini press. It presses everything snugly together and creates nice grill marks that make the sandwich look extra appetizing while melting the cheese quickly and evenly.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover sandwiches, I recommend wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps keep the bread from drying out and preserves the flavors. Leftovers will stay fresh for up to 2 days if stored properly.

Freezing

You can freeze these sandwiches for later enjoyment, but I suggest assembling and slightly toasting them first, then wrapping each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe wrap. Place them in a zip-top freezer bag and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to prevent sogginess.

Reheating

The best method to reheat this sandwich is in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the pan with a lid to help re-melt the cheese evenly while crisping the bread. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery. A toaster oven can also work well to restore crispness and warmth if you want a faster option.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this sandwich?

Absolutely! While sourdough is my favorite because of its tang and texture, other breads like rye, multigrain, or classic white sandwich bread can work nicely. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the fillings and toast well.

Is the Dijon mustard necessary?

Not at all. Dijon mustard is optional but I find it adds a wonderful tangy brightness that lifts the sandwich. If you’re not a fan or don’t have it on hand, feel free to skip it or substitute with a smear of horseradish sauce or even mayo for creaminess.

How can I make the sandwich vegan-friendly?

You can use plant-based roast beef alternatives and vegan cheese instead of cheddar. Replace the butter with a vegan butter or olive oil spread. These swaps create a delicious vegan version that still feels indulgent and satisfying.

Can I add vegetables inside the sandwich?

Definitely! I like to add fresh arugula or spinach for a peppery, fresh bite. Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers would also be delicious options that add flavor and texture.

What’s the best way to ensure the cheese melts perfectly?

Cooking the sandwich over medium heat and covering the pan with a lid while it cooks helps the cheese melt evenly without burning the bread. Also, layering two slices of cheddar gives you that ooey-gooey melt we all crave.

Conclusion

If you’re craving a hearty, tasty sandwich that’s quick and easy but feels truly special, I can’t recommend this Roast Beef & Cheddar Melt Sandwich Recipe enough. It’s one of those satisfying meals that feels like a hug on a plate, and I’m confident you’ll love making and eating it as much as I do. Go ahead, try it out—I promise it’s a delicious way to brighten up any day.