BBQ Corned Beef Sandwiches

Definition Lead

Bbq corned beef sandwiches are hearty and flavorful sandwiches made by layering thinly sliced corned beef coated in tangy barbecue sauce with melted cheddar cheese, crunchy coleslaw, and toasted buns. This recipe takes just 25 minutes and yields four satisfying sandwiches. It’s a quick and delicious way to transform leftover corned beef into a gooey, savory delight.

Back when I was exploring regional American flavors on my travels, I stumbled across a small food truck that served this genius twist on traditional deli sandwiches. It was love at first bite, and now it’s a staple in my own kitchen.

Table of Contents

• Why are these sandwiches so special?
• What ingredients do you need?
• How to make it step by step?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How to store and reheat these sandwiches
• What ingredient swaps can you make?
• Pro tips to perfect this recipe
• What to serve with BBQ corned beef sandwiches?

Why are these sandwiches so special?

BBQ corned beef sandwiches stand out for their perfect balance of flavors and textures. Thinly sliced corned beef meets tangy barbecue sauce, gooey cheddar cheese, and crisp coleslaw for a sandwich worth savoring.

• Flavor explosion: The smoky-sweet barbecue sauce complements the salty, tender corned beef beautifully.
• Texture perfection: Crunchy slaw and buttery toasted buns bring an irresistible crunch to every bite.
• Quick to make: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or an easy lunch.
• Customizable: Perfect for using up leftovers and adapting to your favorite toppings.

What ingredients do you need?

To make these delicious sandwiches, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Here’s the full list with exact measurements:

• 1 pound cooked corned beef, thinly sliced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 4 sandwich rolls or burger buns
• 1 cup coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

The corned beef is the star of this dish. Its saltiness pairs wonderfully with the tangy barbecue sauce and creamy coleslaw.

How do you make BBQ Corned Beef Sandwiches step by step?

Making these sandwiches is incredibly simple and straightforward. Follow the steps below for the best results.

Step 1 — Sauté the onions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and sauté until golden and soft, about 5 minutes.

You might also enjoy our crockpot corned beef and cabbage recipe.

Step 2 — Cook the corned beef

Add the thinly sliced corned beef to the skillet. Sprinkle it with garlic powder and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3 — Add the barbecue sauce

Pour barbecue sauce over the corned beef. Stir to coat evenly, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4 — Toast the buns

Butter the inside of each sandwich roll or bun. Toast them on a skillet or grill until lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5 — Assemble the sandwiches

Place a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer the barbecue-coated corned beef on top of the cheese.

For more ideas, check out our best recipe for corned beef.

Step 6 — Add the coleslaw

Top the corned beef with a generous scoop of coleslaw. Cover with the top half of the bun to complete the sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Corned Beef Sandwiches

Can I use leftover corned beef for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for repurposing leftover corned beef into a fresh, flavorful meal.

What type of coleslaw works best?

Both store-bought and homemade coleslaw work well. Just ensure it has a creamy texture to balance the barbecue sauce.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

The components can be prepped in advance, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches right before serving for optimal texture.

Looking for something similar? Try our corned beef and cabbage casserole.

What’s the best way to reheat corned beef for this recipe?

Reheat the corned beef in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out.

Can I skip the cheese?

While the cheddar adds a nice creaminess, you can omit it or replace it with your favorite cheese.

How to store and reheat these sandwiches

Store leftover components separately for best results. Keep the cooked corned beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, gently warm the corned beef in a skillet over low heat, and toast the buns just before serving. Avoid microwaving the assembled sandwich to maintain texture.

What ingredient swaps can you make?

If you’re out of specific ingredients, don’t worry—there are easy swaps you can make:

• Corned beef: Substitute with cooked pastrami or roast beef for a different flavor profile.
• Cheddar cheese: Use Swiss or provolone for a milder alternative.
• Barbecue sauce: Try a honey mustard sauce for a tangy-sweet twist.

Pro tips to perfect this recipe

• Slice thinly: Use a sharp knife to slice the corned beef as thin as possible for better flavor distribution.
• Toast the buns: Butter and toast the buns for a crispy, golden texture that enhances the overall experience.
• Don’t skip the slaw: The crunchy coleslaw adds textural contrast and a fresh, tangy taste to balance the rich meat and sauce.
• Adjust the sauce: Add a hint of spice or sweetness to the barbecue sauce to suit your preferences.

What to serve with BBQ Corned Beef Sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions:

• Potato chips: A classic crunchy side that complements the sandwich’s textures.
• Pickles: Their tangy snap cuts through the richness of the corned beef.
• Sweet potato fries: Add a hint of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the barbecue sauce.
• Macaroni salad: Creamy and flavorful, it’s the perfect companion to these hearty sandwiches.