Randy Chandler
The cheese in a beef and cheddar sandwich is typically cheddar cheese sauce. The sauce is usually made with a combination of shredded cheddar cheese, cornstarch or flour, and evaporated milk or cream. Some recipes suggest adding American cheese and tapioca flour to the sauce for a smoother consistency. The cheese sauce is then melted and poured over thinly sliced roast beef, which is piled high on a bun.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Cheddar |
| Cheese sauce ingredients | Cream or whole milk, processed American cheese, cornstarch or flour, evaporated milk |
| Cheese sauce preparation | Heat sauce in microwave for 30 seconds or until heated through |
| Cheese sauce consistency | Smooth, creamy |
| Cheese preparation | Shredded, melted |
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What You'll Learn
The best type of cheddar cheese for the sandwich
The classic combination of beef and cheddar in a sandwich is a popular choice, and for good reason. The savoury, buttery, and tangy flavours of the beef and cheddar sandwich are a delight. But what type of cheddar cheese is best for this sandwich?
Cheddar cheese is the most widely consumed type of cheese in the world. It is made using cow's milk and can range from mild to sharp, with younger cheddars being smoother and aged cheddars becoming dry and crumbly. The colour of cheddar can vary from pale yellow to bright orange, depending on the addition of annatto during the cheesemaking process.
When it comes to choosing the best type of cheddar cheese for your sandwich, it is recommended to use younger, milder cheddars as they melt better compared to aged cheddars. Shredding the cheese will also help it melt more evenly and create a smooth and creamy texture.
For those who want to add a twist to the classic beef and cheddar sandwich, there are other cheese options that pair well with beef. These include Colby, a mild and distinctly American cheese with superior meltability, and Butterkäse, a semi-soft, high-fat German cheese that melts like butter and has a versatile, elegant flavour.
Ultimately, the best type of cheddar cheese for your sandwich depends on personal preference. Experiment with different types of cheddar or try other cheeses to find your favourite combination.
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How to make the cheddar cheese sauce
The key to a creamy cheddar cheese sauce is thickening the milk with a mixture of melted butter and flour. This thickens the sauce before the cheese is added to ensure a smooth texture.
To make the cheddar cheese sauce, start by melting butter in a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add flour and stir to make a roux. You can then add milk and whisk until smooth, scraping the roux out of the corners of the saucepan if necessary. Next, add salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and increase the heat to medium-high. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take 2 to 4 minutes.
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and blended into the sauce. When adding the cheese, ensure the sauce is over very low heat or even pull it off the heat while stirring. This is because the temperature of the sauce and the cheese are two of the biggest reasons for a grainy sauce.
For the cheese, it is recommended to use full-fat, hand-shredded cheddar to avoid a grainy texture. When heating the milk, avoid boiling it as this can cause it to curdle. Similarly, never let the cheese sauce boil after the cheese is added. If your sauce isn’t smooth, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
The cheddar cheese sauce can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add more milk to loosen the sauce.
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How to assemble the sandwich
To assemble a roast beef and cheddar sandwich, start by preparing the beef. Thinly slice leftover roast beef and warm it in a large skillet with butter, beef stock, garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce. You can also warm the beef in an oven by placing it in aluminium foil and baking for 10-15 minutes.
Next, prepare the cheese sauce. For a simple sauce, shred block cheddar cheese and toss it with cornstarch. Add evaporated milk and heat the mixture in the microwave for about a minute, stirring until smooth. For a more complex sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour and cook for a minute, then slowly stream in milk while whisking constantly. You can also add cream or whole milk to a pan, let it reduce, and add American cheese and tapioca flour.
Now it's time to assemble the sandwich. If you like, toast your chosen bun lightly, and brush with garlic and onion butter, or butter and grill. Spread a generous amount of sauce on the bottom bun, such as barbecue sauce, tangy Arby's sauce, or horseradish mayo. Layer the sliced beef on top of the sauce, followed by the warm cheese sauce. Add any additional toppings, such as sautéed onions, and place the top bun on the sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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What to serve alongside the sandwich
A beef and cheddar sandwich is a delicious and hearty meal, and there are plenty of sides that can complement it. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside this tasty sandwich:
First and foremost, a good side dish should balance the flavours and textures of the sandwich. The beef and cheddar sandwich is typically savoury and hearty, so a fresh and crisp side dish can provide a nice contrast. Consider a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing, or a classic Caesar salad. If you want to incorporate more vegetables, grilled or roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or eggplant can add a nice smoky flavour.
Another option is to serve the sandwich with a hearty soup. A tomato-based soup, such as a creamy tomato bisque, can complement the sandwich well. Alternatively, a rich and savoury soup like French onion soup or a beef stew can make for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Sides that are crispy and crunchy can also be a great pairing. For example, crispy onion rings or fries, especially curly fries, can add a nice textural contrast to the sandwich. If you're looking for something lighter, a crispy slaw or a fresh vegetable crudité platter with a dip can be a refreshing option.
For a more indulgent option, macaroni salad is a classic choice that can be a crowd-pleaser. You can also offer a variety of potato-based sides, such as oven-fried tater tots, potato salad, or even loaded baked potatoes. These starchy sides can help round out the meal and satisfy heartier appetites.
Lastly, don't forget the condiments and sauces! While the sandwich already has cheese and barbecue sauce, offering additional dips and sauces on the side can enhance the flavours even more. Consider serving the sandwich with a side of ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or even a spicy kick like jalapeño sauce.
With these side dish options, you can create a well-rounded and delicious meal centred around the beef and cheddar sandwich.
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How to reheat the sandwich
To reheat a roast beef and cheddar sandwich, you can use an oven, microwave, or air fryer.
If you're reheating a sandwich that has already been made, it is recommended to use an air fryer or microwave. The air fryer will give your sandwich a crispy exterior without compromising the juicy, flavorful interior. To use an air fryer, first, remove any fresh toppings or ingredients, such as lettuce or tomato, and set them aside. Then, place your wrapped sandwich in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-8 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the sandwich. Once the sandwich is heated through, add the fresh toppings back, and enjoy!
If you don't have an air fryer, you can use a microwave. To reheat your sandwich in the microwave, wrap it in a moist paper towel and heat it for 30 seconds. If your sandwich has gotten a bit dry, you can sprinkle a few drops of water on it before microwaving to help retain moisture.
If you're making the sandwich from scratch, you can use the oven to heat up the individual components before assembling the sandwich. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Wrap the roast beef slices in foil, and place them in the oven for 10-15 minutes. While the beef is warming up, you can heat your cheddar cheese sauce in a saucepan on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir the sauce frequently for about 10 minutes until it is heated through and has a smooth, creamy consistency. You can also lightly toast your hamburger buns in the oven or on a skillet and brush them with garlic butter for extra flavor. Once your components are heated through, you can assemble your sandwich. Spread a teaspoon of tangy horseradish sauce or horseradish mayo on the bottom bun, followed by four slices of warmed roast beef, and a generous dollop of the warm cheddar cheese sauce. Top it off with the other half of the bun, and your sandwich is ready to be devoured!
If you're looking for an extra indulgent option, you can also make a beef and cheddar sandwich in a pressure cooker or instant pot. Simply follow your favorite recipe, and you'll have a delicious, hearty sandwich ready in no time!
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Frequently asked questions
You can use mild, medium, or sharp cheddar cheese.
To make the cheese sauce, you can mix milk or cream with shredded cheddar cheese and tapioca flour. You can also add cornstarch to the cheese and milk mixture to help the cheese melt better.
In addition to the beef and cheddar cheese sauce, a beef and cheddar sandwich typically includes barbecue sauce, horseradish sauce, or Arby's sauce. The sandwich is served on a bun, which is often an onion bun or a hamburger bun.
