French Dip Sandwich Recipes

Few dishes capture the essence of comfort food like the French Dip sandwich. A classic staple of American cuisine with a hint of French inspiration, this sandwich combines tender, thinly sliced roast beef layered on a crusty baguette or hoagie roll.

The magic, however, lies in its pairing with a flavorful au jus, a warm beef broth perfect for dipping. This simple yet satisfying dish has been a favorite in diners and restaurants for decades, offering a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

The origins of the French Dip sandwich are as intriguing as its taste. While its name suggests a French connection, the sandwich was actually born in early 20th-century Los Angeles. Two rival restaurants, Philippe the Original and Cole’s, both claim to have invented it, sparking a friendly debate among food historians and locals alike.

Regardless of its true origins, the French Dip has evolved into a beloved classic, with variations featuring cheese, caramelized onions, or different cuts of meat. Whether enjoyed at a restaurant or made at home, it remains a timeless comfort food that never fails to impress.

To make delicious French dip sandwiches in a crockpot, you can follow this straightforward recipe that combines tender beef with flavorful au jus. Here’s a detailed guide to prepare these hearty sandwiches.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lb chuck roast
• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 12 oz beer (optional; can substitute with beef broth)
• 1 packet Au Jus mix (or French onion soup mix)
• 1.5 cups beef broth
• Sub rolls or hoagie rolls
• Provolone or Swiss cheese (slices)

Instructions

Prepare the Roast:

Season the chuck roast generously on all sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned roast and sear for about 2 minutes on each side until browned. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.

Combine Ingredients:

Once seared, transfer the roast to the crockpot. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, beer (if using), and Au Jus mix or French onion soup mix. Stir to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for added flavor.

Pour this mixture over the roast in the crockpot along with the beef broth.

Cook:

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Shred the Beef:

Once cooked, remove the roast from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat, then return the shredded beef to the crockpot to soak up more of the juices.

Prepare Sandwiches:

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Slice your sub rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll with shredded beef and top with slices of provolone or Swiss cheese. Broil in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

Serve your sandwiches hot with a small bowl of au jus from the crockpot for dipping.

This recipe is not only simple but also allows you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and savory dipping sauce makes for an irresistible dish perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your homemade French dip sandwiches!

French Dip Sandwiches In The Oven

To make French dip sandwiches in the oven, you can follow this simple and delicious method. This recipe highlights the process of preparing the beef, assembling the sandwiches, and achieving that perfect melty cheese topping.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lb chuck roast
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Provolone or Swiss cheese (slices)
• Hoagie rolls or French bread
• Butter (for spreading on rolls)

Instructions

Prepare the Beef:

Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.

In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 3-5 minutes per side). Remove the roast and set it aside.

Make the Au Jus:

In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Cook the Roast:

Return the seared roast to the pot, cover it, and place it in the preheated oven. Cook for about 3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shredded.

Prepare the Rolls:

Once the roast is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Increase your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Slice your rolls in half lengthwise and butter both sides. Place them on a baking sheet.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Layer shredded beef onto one side of each roll. Top with caramelized onions (if desired) and slices of provolone or Swiss cheese.

Place the assembled sandwiches back in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

Serve warm with a small bowl of reserved au jus for dipping.

Suggested Side Dishes

When serving French dip sandwiches, choosing the right sides can enhance the meal and provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the sandwich. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Au Jus: This is essential for dipping and adds moisture and flavor to the sandwich.

French Fries: A classic pairing, crispy fries complement the sandwich perfectly, especially when dipped in au jus.

Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet contrast to the savory beef and are easy to prepare.

Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the sandwich.

Dill Pickles: The tartness of dill pickles adds a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the savory flavors.

Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings are a fun alternative to fries and add a satisfying crunch.

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs can be a healthy and colorful side.

Simple Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing can refresh the palate and complement the meal.

Potato Chips: Homemade or store-bought chips provide an easy, crunchy side that pairs well with sandwiches.

Soup: A warm bowl of soup, such as tomato or French onion, can be a comforting addition to your meal.

These sides not only complement the French dip sandwiches but also add variety and texture to your dining experience, making for a well-rounded meal.