When I first made these Easy French Dip Sandwiches, I wasn’t quite prepared for how quickly my family would devour them. The hearty, flavorful roast beef piled generously onto fresh, crusty rolls and dipped into a savory au jus sauce was an instant hit. My kids, who typically take some persuading to eat new dishes, immediately asked for seconds! Even my husband, who tends to have a critical palate, praised the tenderness of the meat and the richness of the dipping sauce. This recipe quickly became a staple in our home—perfect for busy weeknights and relaxed weekend gatherings alike.
Why You’ll Love This Easy French Dip Sandwiches Recipe
French Dip Sandwiches offer comfort in every bite, but here are some specific reasons you’ll adore this recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients at home or can easily find them at your local grocery store.
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes minimal preparation, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Rich Flavor: Each bite is bursting with juicy roast beef, melted cheese, and savory au jus.
- Family-Friendly: Adults and kids alike love these sandwiches.
- Versatile Meal: Great for lunch, dinner, or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
For these delicious sandwiches, you’ll need:
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (from the deli or leftover roast beef)
- 4 hoagie rolls or crusty French baguettes
- 8 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for rolls)
Instructions
- Prepare the Au Jus:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add sliced onions (if using), and sauté until softened and lightly caramelized (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic, sautéing for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour beef broth into the pan, followed by Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce. Stir gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and keep warm.
- Toast the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice rolls in half lengthwise. Spread butter on each half, if desired.
- Place rolls cut side up on a baking sheet, and lightly toast for about 5 minutes or until golden.
- Warm the Beef:
- While the bread is toasting, gently place thinly sliced roast beef into the warm au jus for about 1-2 minutes, just to heat through.
- Assemble Sandwiches:
- Using tongs, pile warm roast beef onto the toasted rolls. Top each sandwich with two slices of provolone or Swiss cheese.
- Place sandwiches open-faced back in the oven for another 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Close each sandwich, slice in half diagonally, and serve immediately alongside individual small bowls of the au jus dipping sauce.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 4 sandwiches
- Calories Per Serving: Approximately 520 calories per sandwich (including bread, meat, cheese, and sauce)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
How to Serve
Enjoy your Easy French Dip Sandwiches in several delightful ways:
- Serve warm and immediately for best texture and taste.
- Pair sandwiches with:
- Crispy potato chips or French fries.
- Fresh garden salad or creamy coleslaw.
- Homemade potato salad.
- Sliced pickles or pickled vegetables.
- Don’t forget drinks—iced tea, soda, or a refreshing lemonade perfectly complements this meal.
Additional Tips
To make these Easy French Dip Sandwiches even better, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Choose Quality Bread: A sturdy French baguette or hoagie roll holds up well when dipped into au jus.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Warm your roast beef briefly to retain tenderness and moisture.
- Customize Your Cheese: Swiss and provolone work well, but mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack cheese can add a unique twist.
- Enhance Flavor: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the au jus for additional depth of flavor.
- Extra Au Jus: Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer plenty of dipping sauce.
FAQ Section
1. What kind of meat is best for French Dip Sandwiches?
Thinly sliced roast beef, typically from the deli, works best due to its tenderness and flavor.
2. Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
They’re best served fresh, but you can prepare the au jus and store it separately, reheating right before serving.
3. Can I use leftover roast beef instead of deli meat?
Absolutely! Leftover roast beef works great—slice thinly and gently heat in the au jus sauce.
4. Is the cheese essential?
While not essential, cheese adds creaminess and flavor. Feel free to omit it if desired.
5. Can these sandwiches be frozen?
Freezing is not recommended. They’re quick enough to prepare fresh for optimal taste.
6. What sides pair best with French Dip Sandwiches?
Common sides include French fries, potato salad, garden salad, pickles, or coleslaw.
7. How do you store leftovers?
Store leftover meat and au jus separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
8. Can you reheat the au jus?
Yes! Gently reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat until warm.
9. What is au jus made from?
It’s a savory sauce made from beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and onions.
10. Can I substitute vegetable broth for beef broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth, but the flavor profile will be slightly milder and less robust.
Conclusion
These Easy French Dip Sandwiches have become a go-to recipe for my family, offering comfort, flavor, and convenience wrapped up in one tasty sandwich. They’re satisfying enough for dinner, yet easy enough for busy weeknight meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner fix or hosting a casual gathering, these sandwiches are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every appetite at the table. Give them a try—you may find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again, just like we do!