crockpot french dip sandwiches

Crockpot French dip sandwiches are a simple yet irresistible meal that combines tender, slow-cooked beef with savory au jus for dipping. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or game-day spreads, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Using your crockpot ensures the beef is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly tender every time.

In this guide, we’ll explore why crockpot French dip sandwiches are a favorite, how to make them, and creative ways to customize your meal.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

Effortless Cooking: Let your crockpot do the work while you go about your day.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef: Slow cooking ensures the beef is perfectly tender and packed with flavor.
Perfect for Crowds: Easy to make in large batches, these sandwiches are a hit at parties or family dinners.
Customizable: Pair with your favorite cheeses, breads, and toppings to make them your own.
Savory and Satisfying: The combination of juicy beef, crusty bread, and flavorful dipping sauce is pure comfort food.

Ingredients for Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

For the Beef:

Chuck Roast: 3–4 pounds of beef, ideal for slow cooking.
Beef Broth: Forms the base of the au jus, enhancing the beef’s flavor.
Onion: Sliced, for added sweetness and depth.
Garlic: Minced, to infuse the broth with rich flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami kick.
Soy Sauce: Optional, for a deeper, salty flavor.
Dried Herbs: Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves for aromatic seasoning.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

For the Sandwiches:

Hoagie Rolls or Baguettes: Crusty bread that holds up to the dipping sauce.
Cheese: Provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella are excellent choices.
Butter (optional): For toasting the bread.

How to Make Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

Prepare the Beef

Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper on all sides.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the roast until browned (about 2–3 minutes per side). This step is optional but adds extra flavor.

Assemble in the Crockpot

Place the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the crockpot.
Lay the seared roast on top.
Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce (if using). Add thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.

Shred the Beef

Remove the beef from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat.
Return the shredded beef to the crockpot to soak up the juices.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Slice the hoagie rolls or baguettes and lightly toast them if desired.
Layer shredded beef and cheese onto the bread.
Place the sandwiches in the oven for a few minutes, just until the cheese melts.

Serve with Au Jus

Strain the cooking liquid to remove solids and serve it in small bowls as au jus for dipping.

Expanded Tips for Success

Crafting the perfect crockpot French dip sandwiches is all about attention to detail. These expanded tips will ensure your sandwiches turn out irresistibly flavorful and satisfying every time.

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef

Why It’s Important: The success of French dip sandwiches relies heavily on tender, juicy beef. Chuck roast is ideal because its marbling breaks down during slow cooking, creating rich, flavorful meat that practically melts in your mouth.
Pro Tip: If chuck roast isn’t available, brisket or bottom round roast can work well, but they may require longer cooking times to achieve similar tenderness.

2. Don’t Skip the Searing

Why It’s Important: Searing the beef before adding it to the crockpot caramelizes the exterior, locking in juices and adding a depth of flavor to the dish. This simple step elevates the overall taste of the beef and the au jus.
Pro Tip: Use a hot skillet and sear each side for about 2–3 minutes until browned. Deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth or wine and pour the liquid into the crockpot for added flavor.
Time-Saver: If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the flavor payoff is worth the extra effort.

3. Toast the Bread

Why It’s Important: Toasting the rolls or baguettes creates a sturdy base that resists becoming soggy when dipped into the au jus. It also adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Pro Tip:
- Spread a thin layer of butter or garlic butter on the cut sides of the rolls before toasting them under the broiler or in a skillet.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan or a pinch of dried herbs on the butter before toasting.

4. Use High-Quality Broth

Why It’s Important: The au jus is a key component of French dip sandwiches, and the flavor of the broth significantly impacts the final result. A rich, flavorful beef broth enhances the meat’s natural taste and creates a delicious dipping sauce.
Pro Tip:
- Use low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness and adjust seasoning as needed.
- For an even richer flavor, add a splash of red wine, a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce to the broth.

5. Make It Ahead

Why It’s Important: Cooking the beef a day in advance allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in an even more savory and satisfying sandwich. This also makes it a convenient option for entertaining or meal prepping.
Pro Tip:
- After cooking, store the shredded beef and au jus in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat them together on the stovetop or in a slow cooker before assembling the sandwiches.
- This make-ahead method also gives you time to skim off any excess fat from the au jus after it cools.

Additional Tips for Perfect French Dip Sandwiches

6. Strain the Au Jus

Why It’s Important: Straining the au jus removes any solids like onions or herbs, resulting in a smooth, easy-to-dip sauce.
Pro Tip: Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to achieve a clean, restaurant-quality au jus.

7. Layer the Cheese Strategically

Why It’s Important: Placing the cheese directly on the bread helps create a barrier that prevents the bread from soaking up too much moisture from the beef.
Pro Tip: Add the cheese while the bread is still warm to allow it to melt slightly, or toast the sandwiches with the cheese for a gooey finish.

8. Let the Beef Rest

Why It’s Important: After removing the beef from the crockpot, letting it rest for a few minutes before shredding allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Pro Tip: Cover the beef loosely with foil while it rests to retain heat.

9. Experiment with Add-Ins

Why It’s Important: While the classic recipe is delicious, adding caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted peppers can elevate your sandwiches with additional textures and flavors.
Pro Tip: Sauté add-ins in butter or olive oil and layer them over the shredded beef before adding the cheese.

10. Reheat Leftovers the Right Way

Why It’s Important: Proper reheating ensures the beef stays moist and flavorful without drying out.
Pro Tip:
- Reheat the beef in its juices on the stovetop or in the crockpot on low.
- Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat and make it chewy.

By following these expanded tips, your crockpot French dip sandwiches will turn out flavorful, tender, and utterly satisfying every time. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, a gathering, or meal prep, these sandwiches are sure to impress!

Creative Variations

1. Spicy French Dip Sandwiches

Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the sandwiches for a spicy kick.
Mix a bit of hot sauce into the au jus for extra heat.

2. Cheesy Deluxe

Add a second layer of cheese for an extra gooey, melty sandwich.
Top the beef with a cheese blend before toasting.

3. Veggie-Packed Version

Include caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers in the sandwich for added texture and flavor.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free rolls and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free for a safe alternative.

5. Open-Faced Sandwiches

Serve the shredded beef and melted cheese on a single slice of bread for a knife-and-fork version.

Serving Suggestions

Potato Wedges: Crispy baked or fried potato wedges pair perfectly with these hearty sandwiches.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw balances the richness of the beef and cheese.
Soup: Serve with a warm bowl of tomato or vegetable soup for a comforting meal.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette lightens up the meal.
Pickles: Add dill pickles or pickled onions for a tangy contrast.

FAQs About Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, brisket or bottom round roast are good alternatives, though they may take longer to cook.

2. Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! Cook the beef a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the crockpot with its juices before assembling the sandwiches.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover beef and au jus in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze the beef?

Yes, shredded beef freezes well. Store it with the au jus in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

5. What’s the best cheese for French dip sandwiches?

Provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella are classic choices for their mild, melty texture, but you can use your favorite cheese.

6. Do I have to strain the au jus?

Straining removes any solids, but it’s optional if you prefer a more rustic dipping sauce.

7. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, use the sauté function to sear the beef, then pressure cook on high for 60 minutes with a natural release.

Conclusion

Crockpot French dip sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, flavorful beef with crusty bread and savory au jus. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or entertaining guests. With endless customization options, you can tailor these sandwiches to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Serve them with your favorite sides, grab a bowl of au jus for dipping, and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. For more hearty recipes, explore our Sous Vide Prime Rib or Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup for your next dinner inspiration!