Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, these Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a must-try! Made with tender, slow-cooked beef, melted cheese, and toasted rolls served with a savory au jus dipping sauce, this dish is the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting a casual gathering, these sandwiches are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Pair them with a side of crispy fries, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and delicious meal.

Save

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Tender & Juicy Beef – Slow-cooked to perfection for maximum flavor.
✔ Easy to Make – Minimal prep time with the help of your slow cooker.
✔ Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
✔ Customizable – Use your favorite cheese and toppings to make it your own.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

For the Beef:

• 3-4 pounds (1.4-1.8 kg) chuck roast
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups (720ml) beef broth
• ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf

For the Sandwiches:

• 6-8 hoagie rolls or French bread rolls
• 6-8 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for toasting rolls)

Optional Toppings:

• Sautéed onions or mushrooms
• Horseradish sauce for extra zing

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Slow Cooker – Essential for tender, flavorful beef.
✔ Skillet (Optional) – For toasting rolls or sautéing toppings.
✔ Tongs – For shredding and serving the beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Season the chuck roast with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
3. Add the roast on top of the onions.

Step 2: Make the Cooking Liquid

1. In a bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
2. Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef

1. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 5-6 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
2. Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.

Step 4: Toast the Rolls (Optional)

1. Preheat a skillet or broiler.
2. Spread butter on the cut sides of the rolls and toast them until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Place a generous portion of shredded beef onto each roll.
2. Top with a slice of provolone cheese and let it melt slightly. (You can broil the sandwiches for 1-2 minutes if desired.)

Step 6: Prepare the Au Jus

1. Strain the cooking liquid to remove any solids.
2. Serve the strained liquid in small bowls as the dipping sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the sandwiches warm with a side of au jus for dipping.
2. Pair with your favorite sides, such as fries or a fresh salad.

Save

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

✔ Choose the Right Cut of Meat – Chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.
✔ Toast the Rolls – Toasted rolls hold up better with the juicy beef and dipping sauce.
✔ Customize the Cheese – Swap provolone for Swiss, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese.
✔ Don’t Skip the Herbs – Thyme and rosemary enhance the flavor of the au jus.
✔ Serve Immediately – French Dip Sandwiches taste best when freshly assembled.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the sandwiches.
Use a Different Protein – Substitute beef with pork shoulder or chicken thighs for a twist.
Add Veggies – Sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers make great additions.
Try a Different Bread – Use baguettes, ciabatta rolls, or brioche buns for variety.
Make It Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free rolls and ensure the broth is gluten-free.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers

• Store the shredded beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Reheat the beef in a skillet with a bit of the au jus to keep it moist.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the shredded beef and au jus in separate freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Save

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the beef and au jus in advance, then store them in the fridge. Reheat and assemble the sandwiches when ready to serve.

What can I serve with French Dip Sandwiches?

Serve with fries, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use pre-sliced roast beef instead?

Yes, but slow-cooked beef is much more flavorful and tender. Pre-sliced roast beef works in a pinch but won’t provide the same depth of flavor.

How do I make the au jus richer?

For a bolder flavor, use beef stock instead of broth and add a splash of red wine to the cooking liquid.

Can I cook this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Place all ingredients in a Dutch oven, cover, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food—juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, melty cheese, and toasted rolls, every bite is pure indulgence.

Try this easy slow cooker recipe today, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Don’t forget to share it at your next gathering—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Print