French Dip Sandwich

The French Dip Sandwich has a special place in my heart. Growing up, weekends were all about cozy family gatherings, the aroma of savory meats wafting through the air, and that unmistakable sound of a crusty roll being bitten into. I can still remember my dad’s excited chatter about the next big game, while my mom spent the day preparing this delightful sandwich. It was always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender, juicy meat paired with melted cheese and a side of flavorful au jus was simply irresistible. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you, bringing back those warm memories. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply craving something hearty, this French Dip Sandwich is the perfect choice to satisfy your hunger.

Ingredients Overview for French Dip Sandwich

To create a fantastic French Dip Sandwich, you’ll need a blend of wonderful ingredients that work harmoniously together. The key players are the tender beef roast, aromatic seasonings, and a crusty white sub roll that holds it all together. These ingredients not only contribute to the flavor but also create a satisfying texture that makes each bite delightful.

• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided) – This adds richness and helps in sautéing the onions to perfection.
• 2-1/2 pounds beef chuck roast – A well-marbled roast ensures juicy, tender meat that falls apart easily.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the beef and enhancing its natural flavors.
• 2 small yellow onions (very thinly sliced) – These add sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder – This enriches the flavor, giving it that savory depth.
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder – Infuses the dish with a warm, garlicky aroma.
• 2 teaspoons onion powder – Complements the fresh onions, enhancing their flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a lovely herbal note that balances the richness of the beef.
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce – This brings a tangy depth and umami richness to the au jus.
• 2 cups beef broth – Provides the base for the au jus, making it rich and flavorful.
• 1 bay leaf (optional) – Adds subtle flavor during the cooking process.
• White sub rolls (with softened butter, for serving) – The perfect vessel for the juicy beef and cheese.
• Slices of provolone cheese or shredded Gruyere (for serving) – Melts beautifully and adds creaminess.

Step by Step Guide for French Dip Sandwich

Creating the perfect French Dip Sandwich is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Follow these steps for a mouthwatering result you and your guests will love. Let’s dive into the details of making this comforting meal.

1. Remove your beef from its packaging and pat it dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season the roast generously with salt and pepper. I recommend using about 2 teaspoons of fine sea salt (or 1 tablespoon of Kosher salt) along with 1 teaspoon of pepper. Make sure to press the seasonings into the meat gently to enhance its flavor.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe heavy-bottomed pot, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when you can feel the heat when holding your hand about 6 inches above the pot. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned beef. Sear it for about 5 minutes until it forms a nice crust and releases easily from the pan when lifted. Flip and brown the other side for another 5 minutes. This step is essential as it layers flavor into the meat.
3. Once the beef is nicely seared, remove it from the pot and place it in your slow cooker. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in the seasonings: beef bouillon powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Stir this mixture for about 30 seconds, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
5. Next, pour in the Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine. This adds a rich flavor to the mixture. Now, pour in the beef broth while scraping up any browned bits at the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon or spatula. This process, known as deglazing, is where you capture loads of flavor.
6. Pour all the contents of your pot into the slow cooker, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan well. Add the bay leaf for an extra hint of flavor. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 7 to 9 hours, or until the meat is fall-apart tender. Avoid cooking on high, as it won’t achieve the same tenderness. If you must, cooking on high will take about 5 to 7 hours.
7. While the beef cooks, pull out some butter so it can soften in time for sandwich preparation. When your beef is nearly done, use a sharp bread knife to slice the sub rolls in half. Butter the insides of both pieces and lightly sprinkle with garlic powder for added flavor—this step is optional but highly recommended!
8. Place the buttered rolls on a sheet pan and broil them for about 20 seconds, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. Remove them from the oven once the edges are lightly golden.
9. Once the cooking time for the beef is complete, use a slotted spoon to remove the meat from the slow cooker, allowing excess liquid to drain off. Place the beef on the bottom half of each roll and add cheese on top. Return the sandwiches to the oven and broil for 30 seconds to 1 minute or until the cheese is melted and the tops are lightly golden brown. It’s crucial to watch closely, as they can go from perfect to burned in seconds!
10. Carefully sandwich the two sides together, and spoon out the liquid from the slow cooker into small bowls for dipping. Serve your French Dip Sandwiches immediately, enjoying them promptly while the cheese is still gooey and the sandwiches are warm.

Expert Tips about French Dip Sandwich

Mastering the French Dip Sandwich can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwiches are perfect every time.

• Storage: Store leftover components separately before assembling. They can last for up to 3 to 4 days in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again.
• Freezing: If you have extra beef or au jus, consider freezing them. They can make a quick meal later; just thaw and reheat.
• Pairing: This sandwich is fantastic with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even onion rings for that extra crunch.
• Serving size: Adjust the serving size depending on your gathering. This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to suit your needs.
• Leftover ideas: Use any leftover beef in a hearty soup or as a topping for a baked potato for a different meal.

Serving Options for French Dip Sandwich

When it comes to serving the French Dip Sandwich, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here’s how to make the most of this hearty dish:

• Crispy Fries: Serve your sandwich alongside crispy French fries for a classic combination. The crunch pairs perfectly with the tender beef.
• Salad Greens: A fresh green salad can lighten the meal. Consider a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sandwich.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the flavors of the French Dip Sandwich.
• Game Day Snack: These sandwiches are perfect for game day gatherings. Just set up a buffet with all the toppings and let guests assemble their own.
• Picnic Option: These sandwiches can be packaged for a picnic. Just keep the au jus in a thermos to maintain warmth.
• Occasional treat: Enjoy them on special occasions or cozy nights in. They’re comforting and satisfying any time of year.

FAQ

Conclusion

The French Dip Sandwich is a truly special dish, bringing together savory flavors and comforting textures. Its slow-cooked beef and rich au jus make it a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s straightforward and delicious. Your family and friends will love it, and you might just find it becomes a staple in your home!

French Dip Sandwich

The ultimate comfort food that combines tender beef, melted cheese, and a rich au jus for dipping. This French Dip Sandwich is perfect for game day or a cozy dinner at home. Easy to prepare in a slow cooker, it's a delicious meal you'll want to make tonight!

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 sandwiches

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 2-1/2 pounds beef chuck roast see note 1
• Salt and pepper
• 2 small yellow onions very thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce see note 2
• 2 cups beef broth see note 3
• 1 bay leaf optional
• White sub rolls with softened butter, for serving
• Slices of provolone cheese or shredded Gruyere, for serving, see note 4

Equipment

• Dutch Oven
• Crock pot
• Sheet pan

Method

 

1. Remove beef from packaging and pat dry with a paper towel. Season the roast all over with salt and pepper. I add 2 teaspoons fine sea salt (or 1 tablespoon Kosher salt) and 1 teaspoon pepper. Gently press seasonings into the meat.
2. Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven (or oven-safe heavy-bottomed pot) over medium-high heat. Once you can feel the heat when you hold your hand 6 inches above the pot, load in the beef. Brown for about 5 minutes or until you get a nice crust and it releases easily from the pan when lifted. Flip and brown for another 5 minutes. Don’t skip this step. We are adding layers of flavor here. Once the beef is nicely seared with a good crust, remove it and place it in the slow cooker.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent, about 3–5 minutes. Sprinkle in the seasonings: beef bouillon powder, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine. Pour in beef broth and deglaze the pan by scraping up the browned bits at the bottom with a wooden spoon or spatula as it bubbles. (This is where we get loads of flavor.)
4. Pour all the contents of the pot into the slow cooker, scraping the bottom of the pan. Add bay leaf. Cover and cook for 7–9 hours on low or until meat is fall-apart tender. I don’t recommend cooking on high, as it doesn’t get nearly as tender. (But if you do, about 5–7 hours is how long it will take.) Pull out some butter now too so it will be nice and soft come time to make the sandwiches!
5. Use a sharp bread knife to slice sub rolls in half. Butter the insides of both pieces and lightly sprinkle with garlic powder (optional, but yum!). Place on a sheet pan and broil for 20 seconds, watching to avoid burning. Remove. Use a slotted spoon to remove meat from the slow cooker (shake off excess liquid) and place it on the bottom half of the rolls. Add cheese on top. Return to the oven and broil for 30 seconds to a minute or 2, until cheese is melted and tops are light golden brown. Watch very closely—they can go from perfect to burned in seconds! Sandwich the 2 sides together. Spoon out liquid from the slow cooker into bowls and serve alongside (for dipping) with the sandwiches. Enjoy promptly out of the oven.

Notes

• Tip 1: I’ve tested this recipe using 2.5 up to 3 pounds of beef chuck roast. If you use 3 pounds, you’ll need a bit more salt/pepper. Grab a well-marbled chuck roast for the best flavor.
• Tip 2: Worcestershire sauce: Yes, it’s a lot, but it adds so much flavor! Use a good Worcestershire sauce for best results.
• Tip 3: I love Swanson’s beef broth. I use regular, but get reduced-sodium if you prefer. Just keep in mind, a chuck roast needs a good amount of salt!
• Tip 4: I love the ultra-thin sliced provolone cheese. Swiss is another favorite, and for a truly indulgent French dip, try freshly shredded Gruyere cheese—delish!
• Tip 5: Store the components separately before assembling. They can last for up to 3–4 days in the fridge.

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Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.