Bookmark
Air Fryer Roast Beef Sandwiches bring together tender roast beef, melted Swiss cheese, and a tangy special sauce that makes every bite a delight. These sandwiches are perfect for quick dinners or hearty lunches when you want something warm and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. The air fryer crisps the buns just right while warming the meat and cheese to gooey perfection.
I first made these sandwiches on a busy weeknight when I needed something fast but still special. They quickly became a family favorite because the combination of warm beef, melted cheese, and that zesty sauce is hard to beat.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: provides creamy richness choose a good quality mayo for best flavor
- Stone ground mustard: adds a subtle tang and texture look for a fresh jar with visible mustard seeds
- Prepared horseradish: gives a spicy kick adjust according to your heat preference or swap if you prefer milder flavors
- Brioche buns: soft slightly sweet buns that toast beautifully you can also use pretzel or regular burger buns
- Swiss cheese: melts smoothly and has a mild nutty flavor havarti or provolone can also work well
- Thinly sliced deli roast beef: opt for freshly sliced beef if possible for tenderness and flavor leftovers are perfect too
Instructions
- Spoon Together the Sauce:
- Mix mayonnaise, stone ground mustard, and prepared horseradish in a small bowl until fully combined. This sauce adds a creamy tang that complements the rich beef and cheese.
- Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
- If you want easier cleanup optionally line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil. Lay out two bottom buns and two top buns. Spread some of the sauce generously on each bun’s surface to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each bun, covering both bottoms and tops. On the bottom buns add about five slices of the thinly sliced roast beef, layering it evenly. The cheese melts into the meat as it cooks for gooey goodness.
- Air Fry the Sandwiches:
- Set your air fryer to the roast or air fry setting at 370 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the sandwiches for about 4 to 6 minutes or until the meat is warmed through, cheese is melted, and the buns are crisp on the outside. If you notice the tops getting too dark, remove them during the last minute or two to prevent burning. Repeat with remaining sandwiches in batches depending on your air fryer size.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Use any leftover sauce as a dip or spread on your sandwich when serving. These warm sandwiches are perfect on their own or paired with pickles and chips.
Swiss cheese is my favorite because it melts so smoothly and pairs perfectly with roast beef. I remember making this for a casual family gathering and everyone was surprised how quickly these came together but still tasted restaurant quality. The air fryer adds just the right crispness to the bread while keeping the inside warm and melty.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container for up to three days but note that the buns might lose some crispness. Reheat in the air fryer briefly to regain crunch or warm in a skillet.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping horseradish for garlic aioli or mayonnaise for a milder sauce. If Swiss cheese is not available, provolone or gouda make tasty alternatives that melt well. Pretzel buns add a nice twist if brioche is unavailable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sandwiches with simple sides like potato chips, coleslaw, or a pickle spear for a classic diner feel. For a heartier meal try pairing with a cup of beef consomme or au jus to dip the sandwich, turning it into a delicious beef dip style meal.
These air fryer roast beef sandwiches are quick, customizable, and perfect for weeknight meals.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of air fryer works best?
A standard basket air fryer is ideal, but toaster oven or top-flow models can be used. Cooking times may vary by model, so check regularly.
- → Can I make an open-faced version?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time by about a minute to prevent over-toasting the bread.
- → What if I don’t like horseradish?
Swap horseradish with garlic aioli or simply use mayonnaise for a milder flavor.
- → How can I replace stone ground mustard?
Dijon mustard works well, or you can omit it for a less tangy sauce. Yellow mustard adds more vinegar notes.
- → Are there alternative sauces to try?
Yes, options include BBQ sauce, horsey sauce, or a sweetener like honey or maple syrup added to mayo for a different twist.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep sandwiches in an airtight container for 2-3 days. The bread may soften over time.