Arby’s Roast Beef Menu With Prices & Calories 2026
My honest take: I’ve ordered the Roast Beef sandwich here more times than I can count, and the Classic Roast Beef is still the best value on this menu simple, consistent, and you know exactly what you’re getting. If you want something heartier, go for the Beef ‘n Cheddar; the cheese sauce is what makes it worth the extra calories. I’d skip the Half Pound versions unless you’re really hungry, they can feel dry without an extra sauce packet.
📋 Table of Contents
- What Is the Roast Beef Menu at Arby’s?
- Prices & Calories 2026
- Individual Sandwich Reviews
- Sandwich Sizes Explained
- How Is Arby’s Roast Beef Made?
- Nutrition & Allergen Information
- Customization Options
- Popular Sides to Pair
- Combo Meals
- What Makes It Different?
- Ordering Tips
- Gluten-Free Considerations
- How to Order
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Roast Beef Menu at Arby’s?
The Arby’s roast beef menu is a lineup of sandwiches built around one thing: real, whole-cut beef that is slow-roasted inside the restaurant every single day. Unlike most fast-food chains that form ground beef into patties or use pre-cooked processed meats, Arby’s takes an actual round roast, cooks it low and slow for several hours, and then shaves it incredibly thin on a commercial slicer, only when an order comes in, so every sandwich gets freshly cut meat.
The menu is organized around portion size and flavor build. You can go simple with the Classic Roast Beef (3 oz), step up to the Double or Half Pound for more meat, or choose a flavor variation like the Beef ‘n Cheddar, Classic French Dip & Swiss, or the Smokehouse Brisket. Prices across the roast beef menu range from around $5.39 to $9.09 for individual sandwiches, and each item can be added to a combo meal with Curly Fries and a drink for a complete order.
Arby’s Roast Beef Menu Prices & Calories
Before ordering from the Arby’s Roast Beef Menu, it’s important to check the ingredients, nutrition details, and prices. Most roast beef sandwiches range from about $5 to $9, depending on size and toppings. Below, you’ll find complete details for each item, including prices and calories.
| Sandwich | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Roast Beef | $5.39 | 360 |
| Double Roast Beef | $6.99 | 510 |
| Half Pound Roast Beef | $8.09 | 610 |
| Classic Beef ‘n Cheddar | $5.89 | 450 |
| Double Beef ‘n Cheddar | $7.79 | 630 |
| Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar | $9.09 | 730 |
| Classic French Dip & Swiss | $7.39 | 600 |
| Smokehouse Brisket | $7.99 | 590 |
Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwiches
Roast beef is the core of Arby’s identity, and the slow-roasted beef sandwiches remain the most popular items on the menu. Every roast beef sandwich is made with thin-sliced beef that is seasoned, slow-roasted in the restaurant, and served warm. The Classic Roast Beef on a toasted sesame seed bun has been on the menu since Arby’s opened in 1964 and remains the best-selling sandwich in the chain. The Beef ‘n Cheddar adds warm cheddar cheese sauce and Red Ranch sauce on a toasted onion roll, giving it a richer, tangier flavor profile.
Explore the Arby’s Sandwich Menu to discover more sandwiches.
Classic Roast Beef — $5.39 | 360 Calories
The Classic Roast Beef is the original Arby’s sandwich and the foundation of everything else on this menu. It contains 3 ounces of thinly sliced, slow-roasted beef served on a warm sesame seed bun, nothing more by default. There’s no cheese, no lettuce, and no sauce included in the standard build, which makes it one of the leanest and most straightforward options at 360 calories and 23 grams of protein.
What makes this sandwich stand apart from a typical fast-food beef item is the texture and flavor of the meat itself. Because the beef is roasted and rested inside the restaurant before slicing, it comes out tender and folded rather than flat and dense. The simplicity is intentional, Arby’s Sauce (sweet and tangy) and Horsey Sauce (creamy horseradish) are available in self-serve packets at the condiment station, so customers can customize the flavor without paying extra.
Best for: First-time visitors, lower-calorie lunch, or anyone who wants a clean, protein-forward meal without heavy sauces.
Double Roast Beef — $6.99 | 510 Calories
The Double Roast Beef takes the same Classic build and doubles the amount of slow-roasted beef on the bun, bringing the protein up to approximately 38 grams per sandwich. At $6.99, it costs about $1.60 more than the Classic and delivers considerably more beef per bite without any change to the bread, sauces, or overall structure.
This sandwich is a reliable choice for customers who find the Classic slightly too small for a full meal but don’t want the richness that comes with the cheddar sauce or specialty builds. Paired with a small side and water, it’s one of the higher-protein, lower-complexity options on the Arby’s roast beef menu. The beef itself is the same slow-roasted round roast, just more of it.
Best for: Bigger appetites, high-protein meals, and value-seekers who want more beef without extra toppings.
Half Pound Roast Beef — $8.09 | 610 Calories
At 8 ounces of thinly sliced roast beef on a single bun, the Half Pound Roast Beef is the largest standard beef sandwich Arby’s offers. It comes in at 610 calories and approximately 48 grams of protein, making it one of the most protein-dense options on the entire menu. The price of $8.09 gives you a considerable amount of real beef for a fast-food item.
The Half Pound is worth ordering if your main goal is beef volume and protein content. The bun-to-meat ratio tilts heavily toward meat at this size, so customers who add sauces like Horsey Sauce or Arby’s Sauce on top tend to enjoy it most. Without a sauce, the sandwich can feel quite lean and simple at this portion size.
Best for: Large appetites, post-workout meals, or customers prioritizing maximum protein per dollar.
Classic Beef ‘n Cheddar — $5.89 | 450 Calories
The Classic Beef ‘n Cheddar is widely regarded as the most popular and best-value sandwich on the Arby’s roast beef menu. Food reviewers and longtime Arby’s customers consistently rank it above the plain Classic Roast Beef because of how well the three core components work together: slow-roasted beef, warm cheddar cheese sauce, and zesty Red Ranch sauce, all served on a toasted onion roll rather than a standard sesame seed bun.
The cheddar sauce is a smooth, warm cheese sauce, similar in consistency to nacho cheese, that coats the beef and adds richness without being overpowering. The Red Ranch sauce is tangy and slightly sweet, closer in flavor to a barbecue-ketchup hybrid than actual ranch dressing, and it cuts through the richness of the cheese effectively. At only 90 calories and $0.50 more than the Classic Roast Beef, this is arguably the best value upgrade on the menu. Many regulars recommend adding Horsey Sauce for an extra horseradish kick that elevates the entire sandwich.
Best for: Best all-around value, flavor-seeking customers, and anyone ordering Arby’s for the first time who wants the full experience.
Double Beef ‘n Cheddar — $7.79 | 630 Calories
The Double Beef ‘n Cheddar is the mid-tier option for customers who love the Classic Beef ‘n Cheddar but want a more filling meal. It doubles the amount of slow-roasted beef while keeping the same cheddar cheese sauce, Red Ranch, and toasted onion roll. The result is a noticeably heavier sandwich at 630 calories with approximately 39 grams of protein.
At $7.79, the price jump from the Classic is $1.90 for what amounts to double the beef. This is a reasonable upgrade for customers with larger appetites or those who plan to skip a side order and make the sandwich the centerpiece of their meal. The balance between beef, cheese sauce, and Red Ranch remains good at this portion size.
Best for: Bigger appetites who still want the Beef ‘n Cheddar flavor profile, or those replacing a combo side with a heavier sandwich.
Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar — $9.09 | 730 Calories
The Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar is the premium tier of the lineup, with 8 ounces of roast beef, the same cheddar cheese sauce and Red Ranch, on the onion roll. It comes in at 730 calories and an impressive 49 grams of protein, making it the highest-protein sandwich in the roast beef category. At $9.09, it represents the top of the standard roast beef price range.
One important note for nutrition-conscious customers: the sodium content on this sandwich is 2,530 mg, a significant portion of the daily recommended intake. The Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar is a satisfying choice when you want maximum beef and flavor, but it’s worth being aware of the sodium level before ordering.
Best for: Maximum protein, larger meals where you want the Beef ‘n Cheddar flavors in the biggest available portion.
Classic French Dip & Swiss — $7.39 | 600 Calories
The Classic French Dip & Swiss is one of the more unique sandwiches on the Arby’s roast beef menu because it comes with an au jus dipping cup alongside the sandwich. The build includes slow-roasted roast beef and melted Swiss cheese on a toasted sub roll, and the au jus adds a savory, beef-forward depth that changes the eating experience compared to the standard roast beef sandwiches.
This sandwich has a deli-style quality that sets it apart from the rest of the lineup. The Swiss cheese is mild and melts well against the hot beef, and dipping the sandwich into the warm au jus adds a second layer of beef flavor that customers who enjoy French dip sandwiches at sit-down restaurants will recognize immediately. You can request an additional cup of au jus at no extra charge at most locations.
Best for: Customers who enjoy deli-style or French dip sandwiches, or anyone looking for something beyond the standard Beef ‘n Cheddar without going to a crafted specialty build.
Smokehouse Brisket — $7.99 | 590 Calories
The Smokehouse Brisket uses slow-smoked beef brisket rather than round roast, topped with smoked gouda cheese, crispy onion strings, and smoky BBQ sauce on a toasted brioche bun. The brisket has a more intense, smoky beef flavor than the standard roast beef, and the smoked gouda adds a sharpness that works well against the crispy onion strings and BBQ sauce.
At 590 calories and $7.99, the Smokehouse Brisket is consistently rated one of the best sandwiches across the entire Arby’s menu by food critics and regular customers. It is the most flavor-complex option in the roast beef section and stands out clearly from the rest of the lineup.
Best for: Customers who want something distinctly different from the roast beef lineup, or anyone who enjoys smoky, bolder beef flavors.
Roast Beef Sandwich Sizes Explained
Arby’s structures its roast beef sandwiches around portion size, giving customers clear options based on how much beef they want. Bigger sizes mean more meat, a heavier sandwich, and a higher price, giving customers the flexibility to choose what fits their appetite.
Classic (3 oz)
The standard starting point. Enough beef for a moderate-sized meal, especially when paired with a side. Best for lighter appetites or calorie-conscious customers. The most affordable option at $5.39.
Double (approx. 6 oz)
Twice the beef on the same bun. A good middle ground between the Classic and the Half Pound for customers who find 3 oz a bit light. Delivers around 38 grams of protein per sandwich.
Half Pound (8 oz)
The largest regular option. A substantial amount of beef that holds up well even without extra toppings or sauces. The best choice for maximum protein per dollar at Arby’s.
How Is Arby’s Roast Beef Made?
This is one of the most searched questions about Arby’s, partly because of persistent myths online suggesting the meat is a processed liquid or gel product. The reality is straightforward: Arby’s roast beef is made from real, whole cuts of beef round roast. Here is the actual process as confirmed by Arby’s and reported by multiple food journalism sources.
Delivery
The beef arrives at each restaurant sealed in an airtight plastic bag along with a seasoned basting solution made of water and seasonings. This keeps the meat moist and flavorful during cooking.
Roasting
The sealed bag goes into a specialized oven where the beef slow-roasts for approximately 3–5 hours at a low temperature. Arby’s automated ovens shut off and hold the beef warm when it reaches the correct internal temperature.
Resting
After roasting, the beef rests on a warm holding rack. This allows the juices to redistribute before slicing, which is a key part of why the meat stays tender and moist in every sandwich.
Slicing
When an order comes in, an employee uses a commercial meat slicer to shave the beef into characteristic thin, folded slices. The slicing happens fresh per order, not in large pre-cut batches.
The gelatinous appearance of the liquid in the bag before cooking is simply the basting solution and natural meat juices, it is not an indicator of processed or artificial meat. Arby’s quality assurance team has confirmed the beef is 100% real beef multiple times over the years.
Roast Beef Menu Nutrition & Allergen Information
The table below provides complete nutrition and allergen details for every sandwich in the roast beef lineup. Checking these figures before ordering can help you make better meal choices based on your dietary preferences and needs. Visit Arby’s Nutrition & Allergen page for complete details.
| Item | Allergens | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Sugars (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Roast Beef | Soy, Wheat, Sesame | 360 | 14 | 970 | 5 | 23 |
| Double Roast Beef | Soy, Wheat, Sesame | 510 | 24 | 1,610 | 5 | 38 |
| Half Pound Roast Beef | Soy, Wheat, Sesame | 610 | 30 | 2,040 | 5 | 48 |
| Classic Beef ‘n Cheddar | Milk, Soy, Wheat, Sesame | 450 | 20 | 1,280 | 9 | 23 |
| Double Beef ‘n Cheddar | Milk, Soy, Wheat, Sesame | 630 | 32 | 2,100 | 9 | 39 |
| Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar | Milk, Soy, Wheat, Sesame | 740 | 39 | 2,530 | 9 | 49 |
| Classic French Dip & Swiss | Milk, Soy, Wheat | 600 | 21–22 | 2,540–2,550 | 3–5 | 34 |
| Arby’s Sauce (packet) | — | 15 | 0 | 180 | 2 | 0 |
| Horsey Sauce (packet) | Egg | 60 | 5 | 150 | 2 | 0 |
Allergen note: The beef itself does not contain gluten-based ingredients, but all standard buns contain wheat and sesame. Cross-contamination in the kitchen is possible. Customers with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity should inform staff before ordering.
Customization Options for Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwiches
Every roast beef sandwich at Arby’s can be customized through the app, website, or by asking at the counter. Most modifications are straightforward and do not carry an upcharge unless you’re adding a protein or premium ingredient. All customizations are easiest to make through the Arby’s app or website where you can see every available modification per item before placing the order.
🥩 Meat Add-Ons
- Extra Roast Beef — 150 calories
- Bacon — 70 calories
- Double Beef — 70 calories
🧀 Cheese Options
- Cheddar Sauce — 25 calories
- Natural Cheddar — 77 calories
- Big Eye Swiss — 70 calories
- Swiss Cheese — 40 calories
- American Cheese — 70 calories
🍞 Bread Choices
- Sesame Seed Bun — 210 calories
- Onion Roll — 210 calories
- Brioche Bun — 200 calories
- No bun (bowl) — 0 calories
Vegetable Toppings
Sauces & Condiments
Popular Sides to Pair With Roast Beef Sandwiches
Roast beef sandwiches at Arby’s are often enjoyed with popular side items like fries or mozzarella sticks. These sides are usually ordered separately and help turn a simple roast beef sandwich into a more complete and satisfying meal. If you’re looking for a full meal combo, check out the Arby’s Deals, where you can enjoy a main entree with three sides and a small drink in one convenient offer.
Combo Meals & Value Options
All roast beef sandwiches are available as combo meals that include a medium Curly Fries or Crinkle Fries and a medium fountain drink. Choosing a combo typically offers better value than ordering the three items separately. The table below shows current combo prices with approximate calorie ranges.
| Combo Meal | Price | Est. Calories (with fries & drink) |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Roast Beef Meal | $9.59 | ~930 |
| Double Roast Beef Meal | $10.99 | ~1,080 |
| Half Pound Roast Beef Meal | $12.29 | ~1,180 |
| Classic Beef ‘n Cheddar Meal | $10.29 | ~1,020 |
| Double Beef ‘n Cheddar Meal | $12.09 | ~1,200 |
| Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar Meal | $13.29 | ~1,300 |
| Classic French Dip & Swiss Meal | $11.79 | ~1,170 |
What Makes Arby’s Roast Beef Menu Special?
Most fast-food beef items start with ground beef that is formed into patties, frozen, and cooked on a griddle or broiler at the point of sale. Arby’s does something fundamentally different. The chain uses whole cuts of round roast that are slow-cooked inside the restaurant in a sealed bag with a seasoned basting liquid, a method closer to what a deli or a home kitchen would do.
These sandwiches are made with 100% real beef and slow-roasted in the restaurant for several hours every day. The meat is cooked in a sealed bag to keep it juicy and absorb its own flavors before being sliced and served fresh. The thin-slicing that happens per order, rather than pre-slicing and holding in bulk, means the meat arrives on your sandwich warm and tender rather than dried out or reheated. The folded, stacked appearance of Arby’s roast beef is a direct result of this shaving process. That is what has kept this sandwich on the menu for over 60 years without significant changes to the core recipe.
Ordering Tips for the Arby’s Roast Beef Menu
Getting the most value and best experience from the roast beef menu is largely about understanding the differences between the builds and using the available sauces well.
- Start with the Beef ‘n Cheddar if you’re unsure. Most food reviewers and longtime customers agree it is the best single representation of what Arby’s does well, the cheddar sauce and Red Ranch add significant flavor for a minimal price increase over the Classic.
- Add Horsey Sauce to any roast beef sandwich. It’s free from the condiment station and adds a creamy horseradish bite that balances the richness of the beef and cheese sauce particularly well.
- Order the Double if the Classic feels too small. The Classic Roast Beef is a 3-oz sandwich that may feel light for customers used to larger fast-food portions. The Double Roast Beef adds meaningful beef volume for around $1.60 more.
- Check the Arby’s app before ordering. App-exclusive deals frequently include BOGO sandwich offers or combo discounts that apply directly to the roast beef menu items. New Rewards members typically receive a free Classic Roast Beef with a qualifying order.
- Ask for a no-bun option if you’re avoiding carbs. Arby’s will serve any roast beef item without the bun in a bowl or container upon request. The beef itself does not contain gluten-based ingredients.
- Pair the French Dip & Swiss with extra au jus. You can request an additional cup of au jus at no extra charge at most locations, which makes a significant difference when eating a dip-style sandwich.
Gluten-Free Considerations
Arby’s does not offer certified gluten-free buns, and all standard roast beef sandwiches are served on wheat-based buns that also contain sesame. The roast beef meat itself does not list gluten in its ingredients, but kitchen cross-contamination is a real possibility since the same surfaces and equipment are used for all products. For a full breakdown, see the Arby’s Gluten Free Menu.
Gluten-Free Approach at Arby’s
- Order any roast beef item as a no-bun bowl — safest workaround available
- Roast beef, smoked brisket, and ham are safe proteins without the bun
- Arby’s Sauce and most vegetable toppings do not contain gluten
- Horsey Sauce contains egg; some sauces contain soy — check before ordering
- All standard buns contain wheat and sesame — not suitable for celiac customers
- Cross-contamination is a real risk — always inform staff of your dietary needs
How to Order From the Roast Beef Menu at Arby’s
Ordering from the Arby’s roast beef menu is simple and flexible, whether you prefer to visit the restaurant or order online. You can customize your sandwich, add sides or drinks, and choose the method that is most convenient for you.
Order In-Store
Visit your nearest location, choose your favorite roast beef item from the menu board, customize if needed, and place your order at the counter. Food is prepared fresh after checkout.
Arby’s App or Website
Full customization, Rewards points, access to all deals. Select your sandwich, customize with cheese, vegetables, sauces, and complete your order quickly. New members get 25% off their first order.
Drive-Thru
Fast and convenient for standard orders. Staff can accommodate simple customization requests without difficulty. Best during off-peak hours for shortest wait times.
Delivery Platforms
Available through DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub at most locations. Convenient but prices are typically higher than ordering direct. Rewards points may not apply on third-party orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many roast beef sandwiches does Arby’s have?
The current Arby’s roast beef menu includes eight core items: Classic, Double, and Half Pound Roast Beef; Classic, Double, and Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar; Classic French Dip & Swiss; and Smokehouse Brisket. Roast Beef Sliders are also available on the Value Menu as a more affordable, smaller option.
What’s the original Arby’s sandwich?
The Classic Roast Beef is the original Arby’s sandwich, served since the chain opened in Boardman, Ohio in 1964. The recipe has remained largely unchanged for over 60 years, slow-roasted beef on a toasted sesame seed bun. It remains the best-selling sandwich in the chain today.
What’s the difference between Roast Beef and Beef ‘n Cheddar?
The Classic Roast Beef is served on a sesame seed bun with only beef, no default sauces or cheese. The Beef ‘n Cheddar adds warm cheddar cheese sauce and Red Ranch sauce, and uses a toasted onion roll instead of a sesame bun. The Beef ‘n Cheddar costs about $0.50 more and contains 90 more calories, but is consistently rated the better-value, more flavorful option.
Which roast beef sandwich has the most protein?
The Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar has the most protein at 49 grams per sandwich. The Half Pound Roast Beef is close behind at approximately 48 grams. Both are among the highest-protein options available at any major fast-food chain at this price range.
How is Arby’s roast beef made?
Arby’s roast beef is made from real, whole cuts of beef round roast. The beef arrives at each restaurant in a sealed bag with a seasoned basting solution, is slow-roasted in a specialized oven for 3–5 hours, rested on a holding rack, and then sliced fresh per order on a commercial meat slicer. The meat is 100% real beef, persistent rumors about it being a processed liquid product are inaccurate.
Can I order roast beef without the bun?
Yes. Arby’s will serve any roast beef item without a bun in a bowl or container upon request. This is a practical option for customers following low-carb, keto, or gluten-reduced diets. The beef itself does not contain gluten-based ingredients, though cross-contamination in the kitchen is still possible.
Are roast beef sandwiches available all day?
Yes. Unlike breakfast items, the roast beef sandwiches are available throughout the day during standard lunch and dinner hours at all participating Arby’s locations. Most Arby’s restaurants open around 10:00 AM and close between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM on regular days.
Conclusion
The Arby’s roast beef menu offers a genuine deli-style beef experience in a fast-food setting, with clear size tiers, meaningful flavor variations, and solid nutritional transparency. Whether you’re ordering the simple, lean Classic Roast Beef at 360 calories, building up to a Half Pound Beef ‘n Cheddar for maximum protein, or going for the French Dip & Swiss for a more involved eating experience, each sandwich is made with slow-roasted, freshly sliced real beef that has been the foundation of this chain for over 60 years.
Use the prices, calorie counts, and ordering tips in this guide to choose the right sandwich for your appetite and dietary goals. Check the Arby’s app before your visit for current deals on combo meals, and don’t skip the Horsey Sauce, it’s the easiest free upgrade on the menu.
