Roast Beef And Cheddar Sliders

It was one of those Saturdays when the house was buzzing with activity, laundry going, kids chasing each other around, and my husband trying to fix something in the garage with half his tools missing.

We didn’t have a big dinner planned, but everyone was clearly getting hungry. I needed something filling, fast, and guaranteed to satisfy a crowd that included two picky eaters and one sauce-obsessed teenager.

I opened the fridge and spotted a pack of deli roast beef I’d grabbed earlier in the week, a jar of cheddar cheese sauce, and a half-used bottle of Arby’s sauce my son refuses to let me throw out. That’s when the idea hit: sliders. But not just any sliders—something hot, melty, and full of bold flavor.

I pulled out a package of Hawaiian rolls, warmed up the oven, and layered the beef, sauce, and cheese between those sweet, pillowy buns. A quick brush of seasoned butter and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning gave them just the right crunch and flavor. In less than 30 minutes, the kitchen smelled amazing, and we were all sitting down, devouring these cheesy, beefy bites without saying a word—just happy chewing.

Short Description

Roast Beef and Cheddar Sliders are loaded with thin-sliced beef, tangy sauce, creamy cheese, and a golden, buttery topping, all baked into one irresistible mini sandwich.

Key Ingredients

• 1 package (12 count) Hawaiian rolls
• 12 ounces deli roast beef, thinly sliced
• ½ cup Arby’s original sauce or barbecue sauce
• 1 cup cheddar cheese sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 3 teaspoons everything bagel seasoning

Tools Needed

• Baking sheet
• Serrated knife
• Small mixing bowl
• Pastry brush
• Oven mitts
• Spatula

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Place the Hawaiian rolls on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, slice them horizontally to create a top and bottom layer. Keep them connected if you can.

Step 3: Layer the Roast Beef
Arrange the bottom halves of the rolls on the baking sheet. Layer the roast beef evenly over the bottom half.

Step 4: Add Sauce
Spread the Arby’s sauce or barbecue sauce evenly over the beef.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Spoon cheddar cheese sauce over each slider and spread it evenly.

Step 6: Cap the Sliders
Place the top halves of the rolls back on, pressing gently.

Step 7: Make the Butter Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 8: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls, then sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top.

Step 9: Bake
Bake on the middle rack for 12–14 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.

Step 10: Serve
Serve warm with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Melty and Savory: Every bite is loaded with beef, cheese, and sauce.

Quick and Simple: Takes just 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake.

Perfect for Sharing: Great for potlucks, parties, or quick family dinners.

Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters go for seconds.

Customizable: Switch up the cheese or sauce to match your tastes.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Soggy Bottom Rolls
Problem: Too much sauce can soak into the bottom layer.
Solution: Use just enough to cover, and place the sliders on parchment to prevent sogginess.

Cheese Sauce Running Everywhere
Problem: Cheese overflows during baking.
Solution: Keep the sauce centered and don’t overload each roll.

Overbaking
Problem: Rolls get too crunchy or dry.
Solution: Check at 12 minutes and remove once tops are golden and cheese is melted.

Uneven Heating
Problem: Some sliders come out colder in the center.
Solution: Use the middle rack and rotate the tray halfway through if your oven heats unevenly.

Sticking to the Pan
Problem: Rolls stick to the pan after baking.
Solution: Always line the pan with parchment or lightly grease it.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Best as a main: Serve with potato wedges, coleslaw, or a side salad.

Great for gatherings: Slice and place on a large platter for easy sharing.

Dipping sauces: Offer barbecue sauce, ranch, or honey mustard.

Drinks to pair: Iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer for grown-ups.

Party style: Serve family-style with tongs and napkins nearby.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheat (Oven): Wrap in foil and bake at 325°F for 10–12 minutes.

Reheat (Microwave): Microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, wrapped in a damp paper towel to avoid drying out.

Avoid sogginess: Reheat on a wire rack if using the oven to keep the bottoms crisp.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the sliders and cover tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake just before serving.

2. Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely. Sliced cheddar, provolone, or Swiss all work well.

3. What’s the best way to keep them warm for a party?
Place them in a warm oven (around 200°F) covered loosely with foil.

4. Can I use shredded roast beef instead of deli slices?
Yes, just make sure it’s moist but not too wet to avoid soggy buns.

5. What if I don’t have everything bagel seasoning?
You can use sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or just skip it. It still tastes great!

Tips & Tricks

Warm the cheese sauce slightly before spreading—it goes on smoother.

Use a pastry brush for even butter coverage on the buns.

Keep the rolls connected when slicing—it’s faster and neater.

For extra flavor, toast the bottom layer for 5 minutes before assembling.

Add a thin layer of sautéed onions or pickles for a flavor boost.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Sliders
Swap the regular sauce for spicy barbecue or chipotle mayo. Add jalapeño slices under the cheese.

French Dip Style
Use au jus instead of sauce and serve with a small bowl of warm broth for dipping.

Philly Cheesesteak Twist
Add sautéed peppers, onions, and provolone cheese for a Philly-style slider.

Breakfast Version
Swap roast beef for cooked bacon or sausage, and use scrambled eggs with cheese sauce.

Turkey Club Sliders
Use sliced turkey, cheddar, and cranberry sauce. Top with a bit of crispy bacon before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Roast Beef and Cheddar Sliders  strike that perfect balance between comfort food and party fare, and they’re easy to dress up or down depending on what you have in the fridge. Honestly, any time I’m not sure what to make but want something warm and hearty, this is what I reach for. And judging by how fast they disappear, I think my family agrees.

From the toasty tops to the gooey cheddar and saucy roast beef center, these sliders check all the boxes. Try them once—you’ll see.