BEEF ON WECK SANDWICH: THE ULTIMATE BUFFALO-STYLE ROAST BEEF CLASSIC

Beef on Weck Sandwich: The Ultimate Buffalo-Style Roast Beef Classic

Key Info:

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 90 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 4-6 sandwiches
Difficulty: Moderate
Dietary: Gluten-containing, High-Protein

Equipment Needed:
  • Roasting pan
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Meat thermometer
  • Wire rack
  • Saucepan
Ingredients:

Beef Roast:

  • 3 lbs top round beef
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Kummelweck Rolls:

  • 4-6 fresh rolls
  • 2 tbsp egg wash
  • 3 tbsp coarse kosher salt
  • 2 tbsp caraway seeds

Horseradish Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
  • 1 tbsp sour cream
  • Pinch of black pepper

Au Jus:

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • Pan drippings
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Method:

1. Prepare Beef Roast

  • Remove beef from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking
  • Preheat oven to 450°F
  • Rub beef with oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder
  • Place on wire rack in roasting pan
  • Roast for 20-25 minutes until internal temp reaches 125°F
  • Rest meat 20 minutes before slicing

Close-up of a marbled top round beef roast being seasoned with kosher salt and olive oil on a weathered wooden cutting board, accented by fresh herbs and peppercorns, with dramatic side lighting showcasing the meat's texture.

2. Prepare Kummelweck Rolls

  • Brush rolls with egg wash
  • Generously sprinkle with coarse salt and caraway seeds
  • Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes until golden

Overhead shot of traditional kummelweck rolls on a rustic baking sheet, undergoing an egg wash with dramatic natural light highlighting salt and caraway seeds, steam visible, in an artisanal bakery setting.

3. Make Horseradish Sauce

  • Mix all sauce ingredients
  • Refrigerate until serving

4. Create Au Jus

  • Deglaze roasting pan with beef broth
  • Add Worcestershire sauce
  • Simmer for 5-10 minutes

5. Assemble Sandwich

  • Slice beef extremely thin against the grain
  • Split rolls
  • Layer beef generously
  • Add horseradish sauce
  • Serve with au jus for dipping
Crucial Tips:

Slice beef when completely rested
– Don’t oversoak rolls in au jus
– Use high-quality, fresh beef
– Caraway and salt are non-negotiable for authentic flavor

Storage:

– Refrigerate beef separately for 3-4 days
– Reheat gently in au jus
– Do not freeze assembled sandwiches

Variations:

– Use deli roast beef for faster preparation
– Add Swiss cheese for extra richness
– Adjust horseradish intensity to taste

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

– Overcooking beef
– Skimping on roll seasonings
– Using thick beef slices

Beef on weck isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a Buffalo tradition that brings together tender meat, crusty rolls, and bold flavors in every single bite.

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