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Crispy Ultimate Deli Knuckle Sandwich with Roast Beef and Horseradish

crispy deli knuckle sandwich - featured image

A hearty and flavorful sandwich featuring crispy knuckle roll bread, thinly sliced roast beef, sharp cheddar, and a creamy horseradish sauce. Perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners with a satisfying crunch and peppery kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large deli knuckle roll or crusty hoagie roll (about 67 inches; firm crust and soft interior)
  • 6 oz thinly sliced roast beef (preferably from the deli or leftover roast)
  • 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Leafy green lettuce or arugula (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Prepare the horseradish sauce by whisking together 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice in a small bowl. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Slice the knuckle roll in half lengthwise. Spread softened butter evenly on the outer sides of both halves.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the buttered sides of the roll down onto the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Flip the toasted bread so the soft side is up. Spread a generous layer of horseradish sauce on both halves.
  5. Layer 6 oz thinly sliced roast beef evenly over the bottom half, then add 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese.
  6. Scatter thin slices of red onion and a handful of leafy greens over the roast beef and cheese.
  7. Place the top half of the roll over the fillings. Press gently with a spatula and cook for another 2 minutes to melt the cheese and heat through.
  8. Remove the sandwich from the skillet, let it rest for a minute, then slice in half if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

If the roast beef is thickly sliced or cold, warm it briefly in the skillet before assembling. Do not skip buttering the bread’s outside for the signature crunch. For a lighter sauce, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for gluten-free version. Horseradish sauce tastes better if made a few hours ahead.

Nutrition

Keywords: deli sandwich, roast beef sandwich, horseradish sauce, crispy sandwich, quick lunch, easy sandwich recipe