The hot roast beef sandwich is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Thinly sliced roast beef, served on a crusty roll with melted cheese and savory au jus, is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a satisfying meal any time of the year. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to make the perfect hot roast beef sandwiches, from selecting the right cut of beef to assembling the final product.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
When it comes to making hot roast beef sandwiches, the right cut of beef is essential. You want a cut that is tender, flavorful, and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. Here are a few options to consider:
Top Round
Top round is a popular choice for roast beef sandwiches because it is lean, tender, and has a mild flavor. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other cuts of beef.
Rump Roast
Rump roast is another popular choice for roast beef sandwiches. It is a bit fattier than top round, which makes it more tender and flavorful.
Prime Rib
Prime rib is a more expensive option, but it is also the most tender and flavorful. It has a lot of marbling, which makes it juicy and delicious.
Roasting the Beef
Once you have selected the right cut of beef, it’s time to roast it. Here’s a basic recipe for roasting beef:
Ingredients
- 3-4 pound roast beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Rub the roast beef with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
- Roast the beef for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Let the beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it thinly.
Assembling the Sandwiches
Now that the beef is roasted, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 8 ounces roast beef, sliced thinly
- 4 slices cheese (such as cheddar or provolone)
- 1 cup au jus (see below for recipe)
- 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the hoagie rolls in half and toast them until they are lightly browned.
- Place a few slices of roast beef on each roll.
- Place a slice of cheese on top of the beef.
- Spoon some au jus over the cheese.
- Add a dollop of horseradish sauce and Dijon mustard, if desired.
- Place the other half of the roll on top of the sandwich.
Au Jus Recipe
Au jus is a French term that means “with juice.” It is a savory sauce made from the juices of the roast beef. Here’s a simple recipe for au jus:
Ingredients
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine the beef broth, red wine, and flour.
- Whisk the mixture until it is smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add the butter to the mixture and whisk until it is melted.
- Serve the au jus hot over the roast beef sandwiches.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to make your hot roast beef sandwiches even better:
Use a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is a great tool to ensure that your roast beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Add Some Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions are a great addition to hot roast beef sandwiches. Simply cook some onions in a pan until they are sweet and caramelized, then add them to the sandwiches.
Use a Different Type of Cheese
While cheddar and provolone are popular choices for hot roast beef sandwiches, you can also use other types of cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella.
Add Some Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, can add a bright and refreshing flavor to hot roast beef sandwiches.
Conclusion
Hot roast beef sandwiches are a classic comfort food that is easy to make and delicious to eat. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create the perfect hot roast beef sandwiches for your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion dish, hot roast beef sandwiches are sure to please.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Roast beef | 3-4 pounds |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Hoagie rolls | 4 |
| Cheese | 4 slices |
| Au jus | 1 cup |
| Horseradish sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon |
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Rub the roast beef with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your roast beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Add some caramelized onions to the sandwiches for extra flavor.
What is the best cut of beef for hot roast beef sandwiches?
The best cut of beef for hot roast beef sandwiches is typically a tougher cut that becomes tender with slow cooking. Some popular options include top round, rump roast, or prime rib. These cuts have a good balance of flavor and tenderness, making them ideal for slicing thin and serving on a sandwich.
When selecting a cut of beef, look for one that is at least 3-4 pounds to ensure you have enough meat for a crowd. You can also consider purchasing a pre-seasoned or pre-cooked roast to make the cooking process easier. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking and reheating.
How do I cook the roast beef for hot roast beef sandwiches?
To cook the roast beef, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the roast with your desired spices and place it in a roasting pan. Roast the beef in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef, which should be at least 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the beef more tender and flavorful. You can also cook the roast beef in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for a more hands-off approach. Simply season the beef and cook it on low for 8-10 hours or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
What is the best way to slice the roast beef for hot roast beef sandwiches?
The best way to slice the roast beef is against the grain, using a sharp knife or meat slicer. This will help to create tender and easy-to-chew slices. Slice the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick, and place them on a cutting board or tray.
To make the slicing process easier, you can also chill the roast beef in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before slicing. This will help to firm up the meat, making it easier to slice thinly and evenly. You can also use a meat slicer or deli slicer to get uniform slices.
What are some popular toppings for hot roast beef sandwiches?
Some popular toppings for hot roast beef sandwiches include melted cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, and sautéed onions or bell peppers. You can also add some horseradish sauce or au jus for extra flavor. Other toppings might include sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or pickles.
When it comes to cheese, you can use shredded, sliced, or melted cheese, depending on your preference. For sautéed onions or bell peppers, simply heat some oil in a pan and cook the vegetables until they are tender and caramelized. You can also add some garlic or herbs for extra flavor.
What type of bread is best for hot roast beef sandwiches?
The best type of bread for hot roast beef sandwiches is a crusty bread that can hold up to the juices and toppings. Some popular options include a French baguette, Italian sub roll, or a crusty ciabatta. You can also use a hoagie roll or a pretzel bun for a more rustic option.
When selecting a bread, look for one that is fresh and has a good texture. You can also toast the bread before assembling the sandwich to give it a crispy texture. Simply place the bread under the broiler for a few minutes or grill it in a pan until it is toasted.
How do I assemble the hot roast beef sandwiches?
To assemble the hot roast beef sandwiches, start by slicing the bread in half and toasting it if desired. Then, add a few slices of the roast beef to the bread, followed by your desired toppings. You can also add some cheese or sauce to the bread before adding the beef.
Once you have added all of the toppings, place the other half of the bread on top of the sandwich and serve immediately. You can also wrap the sandwich in foil or parchment paper and serve it as a take-out option. Be sure to serve the sandwiches hot, as this will help to melt the cheese and bring out the flavors of the beef.
Can I make hot roast beef sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make hot roast beef sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. You can cook the roast beef and slice it ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to assemble the sandwiches.
To reheat the beef, simply place it in a pan with some au jus or broth and heat it over low heat until it is warmed through. You can also reheat the beef in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overheat it. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving and serve hot.