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

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

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.