Name: Slow Cooker Cheddar Beef Sandwiches
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488995H35M33S
Total time: PT-488995H35M33S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2‑3 lb (≈1‑1.4 kg) chuck roast; 2 teaspoons dried minced onion; 1 teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning (or steak seasoning blend); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1½ cups Arby’s sauce (or similar barbecue/sandwich sauce), plus extra for topping; 1 cup cheddar cheese sauce; 6 onion rolls (or buns of choice)

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Slow‑cooked shredded beef piled high on soft onion rolls, drizzled with warm cheddar cheese sauce and tangy sandwich sauce, makes these cheddar beef sandwiches an irresistible comfort food. It’s the kind of meal I turn to when I want something hearty, savory, and incredibly satisfying without much hands-on cooking. Slow Cooker Cheddar Beef Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines the ease of a slow cooker with bold, crave-worthy flavors. The beef turns melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours of slow cooking, soaking up all that savory sauce. Paired with cheddar cheese and soft buns, it’s like a fast-food favorite—but better, because I made it myself. It’s perfect for game days, potlucks, or just a delicious family dinner. And the leftovers? They reheat beautifully.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2‑3 lb (≈1‑1.4 kg) chuck roast
2 teaspoons dried minced onion
1 teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning (or steak seasoning blend)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1½ cups Arby’s sauce (or similar barbecue/sandwich sauce), plus extra for topping
1 cup cheddar cheese sauce
6 onion rolls (or buns of choice)

directions

I start by placing the chuck roast in the bottom of a 6‑quart slow cooker.
Then I sprinkle the dried minced onion and steak seasoning over the roast and pour the Worcestershire sauce right on top.
I add 1½ cups of Arby’s sauce over everything, letting it soak in.
I cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours (or HIGH for about 4 hours), until the beef is fall-apart tender.
Once it’s done, I shred the beef with two forks and stir it into the juices.
I switch the slow cooker to “warm” to keep everything hot while I prep the buns.
I heat the cheddar cheese sauce separately so it’s ready for drizzling.
I split the rolls, pile on the beef, top with cheese sauce, and add extra Arby’s sauce if I’m in the mood.
Then I serve immediately and dig in.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 hearty sandwiches.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: ≈8 hours (LOW) or ≈4 hours (HIGH)
Total Time: ≈8 hours 5 minutes (LOW) / ≈4 hours 5 minutes (HIGH)

Variations

Sometimes I like to toast or butter the buns for extra flavor and crunch. If I’m out of cheddar cheese sauce, I’ll use shredded or sliced cheddar—it melts just fine from the heat of the beef. I also switch it up with barbecue sauce or a zesty chipotle mayo if I want a different kick. Searing the roast before slow cooking adds even more depth, though it’s totally optional.

storage/reheating

I store leftover shredded beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready for another sandwich, I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. The buns and cheese sauce are best added fresh when serving.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

I use a chuck roast because it becomes super tender when slow-cooked. It’s perfect for shredding and soaking up sauces.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely. If I don’t have cheese sauce, I’ll use sliced cheddar, shredded cheese, or even provolone. They all melt nicely.

Do I need to sear the beef before slow cooking?

It’s not necessary, but I sometimes do it for extra flavor. Just brown the roast on all sides in a hot pan before adding it to the slow cooker.

What can I use instead of Arby’s sauce?

If I don’t have Arby’s sauce, I substitute it with my favorite barbecue sauce or a zesty sandwich sauce. It still tastes amazing.

Can I freeze the leftover shredded beef?

Yes, I can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I just thaw and reheat when I’m ready to enjoy it again.

Conclusion

This slow cooker cheddar beef sandwich recipe is one of my go-to meals when I want something comforting, flavorful, and easy to put together. With minimal prep and a rich, satisfying result, it’s a dish I love sharing—and one I come back to again and again.