Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Recipe

There’s pure magic in walking through the door at the end of a long day and knowing dinner is not only ready, but absolutely irresistible. These Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are everything you want in a comfort meal: tender, savory beef piled high on crusty rolls, melted cheese, and a side of rich, warm au jus for dipping. This is the kind of meal that brings everyone running to the table, and I can’t wait for you to experience it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches plays a starring role, coming together for that signature savory flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s what you’ll need—and why it matters!

• Beef Chuck Roast (2 1/2 to 3 pounds): The star of the show! Chuck roast breaks down beautifully after hours in the slow cooker, transforming into tender, pull-apart perfection.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For searing your roast before slow-cooking, which locks in flavor and adds that irresistible golden crust.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Pepper: Season your roast generously—this simple combo brings out the best in the beef.
• Dry Onion Soup Mix (2 1-ounce packages): A secret weapon for deep, umami-rich flavor with zero fuss!
• Water (2 cups): Helps create plenty of savory au jus for dipping.
• Beef Broth (2 cans, 14.5 ounces each): Builds a luscious, deeply flavored dipping sauce while keeping the meat moist and succulent.
• Swiss or Provolone Cheese (6-8 slices): Creamy, meltable, and the perfect counterpoint to the rich beef. Choose your favorite—or try both!
• Crusty Rolls (6-8, such as ciabatta): A sturdy, crusty bread is essential for holding up to the meat and all that glorious au jus.

Variations

The beauty of Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches is just how easy they are to make your own. Whether you’re working with what’s in the fridge or catering to different tastes, here are some fun ways to customize your sandwiches.

• Cheese Swap: Try sharp white cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for a new flavor twist—each melts beautifully over the beef.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Pile your rolls with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted peppers for a burst of color and extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced pickled jalapeños, a swipe of horseradish mayo, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a sandwich with serious attitude.
• Gluten-Free Option: Serve your delicious beef over a baked potato or gluten-free rolls for a satisfying meal without gluten.

How to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, give your beef chuck roast a generous sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper on all sides—don’t be shy! Sear the roast in the hot pan until it’s beautifully golden brown everywhere, about 1-2 minutes per side. This quick step is key for locking in flavor and creating irresistible depth in your finished sandwiches.

Step 2: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker

Carefully transfer the seared roast (plus any delicious pan juices!) into your slow cooker. Scatter both packets of dry onion soup mix over the meat, then pour in the water and beef broth so the roast is surrounded by savory goodness. The soup mix and broth are what create that unforgettable, dip-worthy au jus!

Step 3: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic

Set your slow cooker to high for 4-6 hours, or low if you want a longer, 8-10 hour simmer. Either way, you’ll know it’s ready when the beef is so tender it practically falls apart with a fork. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often—trust the process, and let the aromas fill your kitchen!

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Once the roast is fork-tender, lift it out of the slow cooker and shred it into juicy, bite-sized pieces. Skim any excess fat from the surface of the cooking liquid if you’d like—it’s up to you how rich you want your au jus.

Step 5: Build and Toast Your Sandwiches

Slice open your crusty rolls and pile on that succulent shredded beef. Top each with a generous slice of Swiss or provolone, then pop the sandwiches under the broiler for a couple of minutes, just until the cheese is gloriously melted and the buns are toasty at the edges. Don’t walk away—this happens fast!

Step 6: Serve with Au Jus and Enjoy!

Ladle the savory au jus right from the slow cooker into little bowls. Serve your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches hot and let everyone dunk and devour. Watching the cheesy beefy goodness soak up that flavorful broth is part of the experience!

How to Serve Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

Garnishes

The joy of these sandwiches is that you can keep them simple or dress them up! A handful of fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Paper-thin red onion slices, a tangle of arugula, or a dab of horseradish cream can elevate your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches without overpowering that amazing beef.

Side Dishes

Pair your savory sandwiches with crisp oven fries, a bright green salad, or classic potato chips for crunch. For a cozier dinner, creamy coleslaw, roasted veggies, or a cup of tomato soup are all simple, delicious companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches slider-style on mini rolls for a party, or set up a DIY sandwich board with bowls of toppings so everyone can build their own. For a little bistro flair, tie up each sandwich with parchment paper and twine, then add a dipping cup of au jus on the side. It’s as fun to serve as it is to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have leftovers, store the shredded beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3-4 days, ready for quick sandwiches, tacos, or even a savory breakfast hash.

Freezing

Both the beef and the au jus freeze surprisingly well! Let everything cool, then divvy up into freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for 2-3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when the craving strikes.

Reheating

Reheat the beef gently in a saucepan or microwave with a splash of au jus to keep it moist. For serving, quickly toast or broil your rolls and cheese to bring back that just-made magic and make your Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches taste freshly made.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a low-stress, high-reward dinner that everyone will rave about, I honestly can’t recommend these Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches enough. Whether it’s a weekend splurge or a cozy weeknight, give them a try and watch your family’s faces light up at the very first dip!

Print