Open Face Roast Beef Sandwich Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

There’s something irresistibly comforting about an open face roast beef sandwich. This classic American dish combines tender, juicy slices of roast beef piled high on toasted bread, all smothered with rich, savory gravy.

Perfect for a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, it’s a meal that satisfies both your hunger and your soul. Whether you’re hosting a casual family meal or looking for an easy yet impressive dish to serve friends, this recipe delivers on flavor and simplicity.

In this post, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to make the perfect open face roast beef sandwich. From selecting the right cut of beef to making a luscious gravy and assembling the sandwich, you’ll find everything you need right here.

Plus, we’ll share tips to customize it your way and suggest complementary sides that elevate this classic to a whole new level. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This open face roast beef sandwich recipe is a timeless favorite that combines succulent roast beef with a flavorful gravy and crispy toasted bread. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve when guests come over.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a chef to impress with this dish. The gravy is made from scratch using pan drippings or beef broth, adding layers of savory goodness that enhance every bite.

Additionally, you can customize this sandwich with cheese, caramelized onions, or horseradish sauce to suit your taste. Whether you want a classic version or a gourmet twist, this recipe has got you covered.

Ingredients

• 8 oz thinly sliced roast beef (preferably from a cooked roast)
• 2 slices thick-cut bread (white, sourdough, or rye)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced cheddar or Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, horseradish sauce

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Toaster or oven broiler
• Knife and cutting board
• Spatula or spoon
• Serving plates

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread: Toast your bread slices until golden and crisp. You can use a toaster or place them under the oven broiler for 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
2. Make the gravy: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is bubbling and turns a light golden color.
3. Add broth and seasoning: Slowly whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Add Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Warm the roast beef: If your roast beef slices are cold, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
5. Assemble the sandwich: Place the toasted bread on a plate. Layer the warm roast beef evenly on top. If using cheese or caramelized onions, add them now.
6. Top with gravy: Generously spoon the hot gravy over the roast beef and bread, ensuring the sandwich is nicely coated and moist.
7. Optional finishing: For a melted cheese effect, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
8. Serve immediately: Open face roast beef sandwiches are best enjoyed hot. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For the richest flavor, use homemade beef broth or the pan drippings from your roast beef when making the gravy.”

• Cheese options: Swiss, cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese work wonderfully melted over the beef.
• Horseradish kick: Spread a thin layer of horseradish sauce on the toasted bread before adding beef for a spicy, tangy boost.
• Caramelized onions: Add sweet caramelized onions on top of the beef for extra depth of flavor.
• Make it a melt: Add sautéed mushrooms and cheese, then broil until bubbly for a hearty roast beef melt.
• Leftover roast beef: This recipe is a perfect way to use up roast beef from Sunday dinner or deli slices.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread and substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch for the gravy.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Open face roast beef sandwiches pair wonderfully with:

• Classic mashed potatoes or creamy mashed cauliflower
• Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp salad
• Coleslaw or a tangy cucumber salad to cut through the richness
• For a lighter side, try a fresh green salad like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas

For a hearty meal, serve alongside a bowl of soup such as a rich vegetable or potato soup. If you love exploring more comforting meals, check out our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food for a delicious plant-based option to accompany your sandwich.

Conclusion

The open face roast beef sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for any occasion. With tender roast beef, a savory homemade gravy, and toasted bread, it’s a comforting classic that never goes out of style.

Whether you’re using leftover roast beef or slicing a fresh roast, this recipe offers flexibility and flavor that can be customized to your liking. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that’s both hearty and heartwarming.

Ready to try more flavorful recipes? Explore our selection of easy and delicious dishes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for more inspiration in your kitchen!

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