Custrd is out now on the App Store and Google Play — Try it free for 7 days →
Back to recipes

Smørrebrød med Roastbeef (Danish Open-Faced Roast Beef Sandwich)

A classic Danish open-faced sandwich featuring tender sliced roast beef on rye bread, topped with crispy fried onions, horseradish cream, and fresh garnishes. A sophisticated Nordic lunch that's both elegant and deeply satisfying.

Total time
25 min
Servings
2
Calories
485
Protein
28g
Smørrebrød med Roastbeef (Danish Open-Faced Roast Beef Sandwich)
scandinaviandanishbeefsandwichlunchopen-faced

Ingredients

10 items — tap to check off

Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.

Open the app

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Separate the onion slices into rings and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  2. Step 2

    Remove roast beef from refrigerator 10 minutes before assembly to bring to room temperature slightly.

  3. Step 3

    Chop fresh dill finely and set aside.

  4. Step 4

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion rings and fry for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy. Transfer to paper towels and season with salt.

  5. Step 5

    Toast rye bread slices lightly in the same skillet or toaster until edges are crispy but centers remain slightly soft.

  6. Step 6

    Spread softened butter thinly on each toasted rye slice.

  7. Step 7

    Spread horseradish cream evenly over the butter on all four slices.

  8. Step 8

    Arrange roast beef slices neatly on top of each bread slice, folding gently to create texture.

  9. Step 9

    Top each sandwich with a generous handful of crispy fried onions.

  10. Step 10

    Garnish with fresh dill, capers or pickled cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Tools you’ll need

  • 12-inch stainless steel skillet
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • paper towels
  • toaster or toaster oven
  • butter knife or offset spatula
  • serving plate

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.