The Classic Deli Roast Beef sandwich is a hearty, flavorful classic with layers of savory roast beef, creamy Swiss cheese, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, and a tangy kick from horseradish. Here’s how to make the best-in-class version of this beloved sandwich, sure to impress your taste buds every time.
Ingredients (Makes 1 Sandwich)
- 1 roll or sandwich bun (sub roll, hoagie roll, or your choice of hearty bread)
- 1/4 pound roast beef (sliced thin, preferably freshly sliced from the deli)
- 2 slices Swiss cheese (or more, depending on preference)
- 2-3 leaves of lettuce (romaine or iceberg for extra crunch)
- 2 slices of tomato (fresh, ripe)
- 1 tablespoon horseradish sauce (or more to taste, for extra spice)
- Mayonnaise (optional, for spreading on the bread)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Start by cutting your sandwich roll in half. If you like a warm, crispy sandwich, you can lightly toast the roll or warm it in the oven.
- If you prefer extra creaminess, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the inside of the bread, but this is optional depending on your taste.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- On the bottom half of the roll, spread a generous amount of horseradish sauce. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it—horseradish adds a tangy, sharp kick that pairs perfectly with the roast beef.
- Layer the sliced roast beef on top of the horseradish sauce. Make sure the roast beef is evenly distributed to ensure a hearty bite in every mouthful.
- Add Swiss cheese on top of the roast beef. You can use melted Swiss cheese if you prefer, or just place it cold for a more traditional deli experience.
- Layer lettuce and tomato on top of the Swiss cheese. The lettuce adds freshness and crunch, while the tomato provides a juicy contrast to the rich roast beef.
- Top with the other half of the roll to complete your sandwich.
Step 3: Serve
- Gently press down on the sandwich to help everything stay in place.
- Slice the sandwich in half (diagonally or straight across, depending on your preference) for an easy, classic presentation.
Tips for the Best Classic Deli Roast Beef Sandwich:
- Roast Beef: Freshly sliced roast beef from the deli is key. You want it to be thinly sliced, but still tender and flavorful. If you can, opt for medium-rare roast beef for extra juiciness.
- Swiss Cheese: Traditional Swiss cheese is perfect for this sandwich, but you can experiment with provolone or cheddar if you prefer a different flavor.
- Horseradish Sauce: Adjust the amount of horseradish sauce based on how much heat you like. For an extra kick, mix in a little bit of Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard with the horseradish sauce.
- Lettuce and Tomato: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor, and choose crisp lettuce (romaine or iceberg) for that satisfying crunch.
- Bread: The bread should be sturdy enough to hold the generous fillings but soft enough to enjoy. A soft hoagie roll or a fresh deli roll works best.
Variations on the Classic Deli Roast Beef:
- Melted Swiss Roast Beef: Toast the sandwich with melted Swiss cheese to make the sandwich extra creamy and warm.
- Spicy Kick: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to give the sandwich an extra spicy twist.
- Roast Beef and Cheddar: Swap out the Swiss for cheddar cheese for a sharper, bolder flavor.
- Roast Beef with Pickles: Add pickles or pickled onions for an extra crunch and tang.
This Best-in-Class Classic Deli Roast Beef Sandwich brings together the perfect balance of tender roast beef, melty Swiss cheese, crisp lettuce, and fresh tomato, all enhanced by the bold tang of horseradish. It’s a satisfying, flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and sure to be a hit with deli lovers!
