Can I use a different type of beef instead of deli roast beef?

Yes! While deli roast beef is ideal because it’s thinly sliced and tender, you can substitute with leftover cooked steak, shredded brisket, or even thinly sliced cooked flank steak. Just make sure the beef is sliced thinly so it warms quickly without drying out.

What kind of barbecue sauce works best?

Use any barbecue sauce you love—whether it’s smoky, sweet, or spicy—because it really ties this dish together. I recommend a medium-sweet and tangy sauce for balance. Feel free to experiment with local or homemade sauces to make it your own.

Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop and toast your buns for best results.

What’s the best bun option for these sandwiches?

I recommend a soft yet sturdy bun that can hold up to the saucy beef without falling apart. Brioche buns add a touch of richness, while classic hamburger buns or hoagie rolls work well too. Toasting the buns slightly helps prevent sogginess.

Skillet Barbecue Beef Sandwiches - Easy & Flavorful Dinner

Name: Skillet Barbecue Beef Sandwiches Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small white onion (thinly sliced); 1 tbsp butter; 1 cup barbecue sauce; 1/3 cup chili sauce (such as Heinz); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 3 tbsp packed brown sugar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 lb very thinly sliced deli roast beef (cut into strips or steak, cut into very thin strips); Sandwich buns (4 buns)

Description

Skillet Barbecue Beef Sandwiches are a quick, delicious dinner option featuring tender deli roast beef strips simmered in a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce with caramelized onions, served on sandwich buns for a satisfying meal ready in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 small white onion (thinly sliced)
1 tbsp butter
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/3 cup chili sauce (such as Heinz)
1 tbsp lemon juice
3 tbsp packed brown sugar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 lb very thinly sliced deli roast beef (cut into strips or steak, cut into very thin strips)
Sandwich buns (4 buns)

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Instructions

Sauté Onion: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the thinly sliced onion. Cook until the onions are tender and start to turn golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Make Sauce: Add the barbecue sauce, chili sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet with the onions. Whisk the mixture together until smooth and bring it to a simmer while stirring occasionally over medium heat.
Add Beef: Add the thinly sliced roast beef strips to the skillet and gently toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Continue cooking just until the beef is heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes, then remove the skillet from heat.
Assemble Sandwiches: Pile the saucy barbecue beef and onions onto sandwich buns and serve immediately for a warm, flavorful meal.

Notes

Use very thinly sliced deli roast beef for the best texture and quick cooking time.
Choose sandwich buns that can hold up to moist fillings, such as brioche or sturdy hoagie rolls.
You can add sliced cheese like cheddar or provolone on the buns for an extra layer of flavor.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce mixture.
This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 357 kcal
Sugar: 37 g
Sodium: 2816 mg
Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 46 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 26 g
Cholesterol: 72 mg