Olivia Carter
If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor, then this is the perfect recipe for you. The slow cooker is a game-changer when it comes to making French dip sandwiches, as it allows all the flavors to meld together over several hours of cooking. The result is tender, juicy meat that’s infused with the rich and savory broth.
This recipe starts with a beef roast that’s seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices to enhance the flavor. The roast is then seared to create a beautiful crust before being placed in the slow cooker along with a mixture of beef broth, onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. As the roast cooks low and slow, it absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth, resulting in incredibly tasty meat.
Once the roast is cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. French dip sandwiches are traditionally served on a crusty baguette or French roll, which is then filled with thin slices of the tender beef. The sandwiches are ready for devouring, but before you dig in, don’t forget the most important part – the au jus! The leftover cooking liquid in the slow cooker is strained and served alongside the sandwiches for dipping. It’s the perfect finishing touch that takes this meal to the next level.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a satisfying meal for your family, this slow cooker French dip recipe is a winner. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and will leave everyone at the table wanting seconds. So get your slow cooker ready and get ready to enjoy the best French dip sandwiches you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients for French Dip
When it comes to making the best French Dip sandwich in a slow cooker, it all starts with the right ingredients. Here is a list of key ingredients you will need:
- Beef Roast: Start with a tender and flavorful cut of beef, such as a chuck roast or a sirloin roast.
- Beef Broth: This will serve as the base for your au jus sauce, so make sure to choose a high-quality, flavorful beef broth.
- Onion: Adding sliced onions to the slow cooker will infuse the beef with extra flavor and sweetness.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic will add a delicious aromatic element to the French Dip.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This savory sauce will enhance the beef’s natural flavors and add a hint of tanginess.
- Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme leaves will add a subtle earthiness to the dish.
- Black Pepper: A pinch of freshly ground black pepper will help to season the beef and au jus sauce.
- French Rolls: Use soft and crusty French rolls as the base for your sandwiches.
- Provolone Cheese: This mild and creamy cheese is the traditional choice for topping a French Dip.
These ingredients, when combined and slow-cooked, will create a mouthwatering French Dip sandwich that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize your sandwich by adding additional toppings, such as caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms, to make it even more delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing a delicious French dip sandwich in a slow cooker is easier than you might think. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a mouthwatering meal in no time.
- Start by preparing your ingredients. Gather a beef roast, beef broth, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and your choice of herbs and spices.
- Next, season the beef roast with salt, pepper, and any other herbs and spices you prefer. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef roast on all sides. This step helps to seal in the juices and adds a nice crust to the meat.
- Transfer the seared beef roast to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker as well.
- Pour the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the beef roast in the slow cooker. These liquid ingredients will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 8-10 hours, or on high heat for 4-6 hours. The long, slow cooking time will help to tenderize the beef and infuse it with the flavors of the broth and seasonings.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef roast from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. This will ensure that each bite of the French dip sandwich is tender and easy to bite into.
- Strain the liquid from the slow cooker to remove any excess fat or solids. This flavorful broth will serve as the au jus for dipping the sandwiches.
- Now it’s time to assemble the sandwiches. Take a roll or baguette and slice it in half lengthwise. Place the sliced beef on one side of the bread and use the other half for dipping.
- Serve the French dip sandwiches with a side of au jus for dipping. You can also add some cheese, caramelized onions, or horseradish sauce to take the sandwich to the next level.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily make the best French dip sandwich in your slow cooker. The tender beef, flavorful au jus, and delicious toppings will make this meal a favorite for both special occasions and everyday dinners. Enjoy!
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to making the best French dip in a slow cooker, choosing the right cut of meat is essential. The cut of meat you choose can make a significant difference in the flavor and tenderness of your dish. Luckily, there are a few popular cuts of beef that are perfect for slow cooking and creating a delicious French dip.
Chuck roast is a popular choice for slow cooking. It comes from the shoulder of the cow and is known for its rich, beefy flavor. This cut of meat has a good amount of marbling, which adds flavor and helps keep the meat tender and juicy as it slow cooks.
Sirloin roast is another great option for a French dip in a slow cooker. This cut of meat comes from the rear back portion of the cow and is leaner than chuck roast. It is still flavorful and tender when slow cooked, making it a delicious choice for a French dip.
- Rump roast is a versatile cut of meat that can be used for slow cooking. It is typically lean, but still tender when cooked low and slow. It has a mild flavor that pairs well with the seasoned au jus sauce in a French dip.
- Top round roast is another option for a French dip in a slow cooker. This cut of meat is lean and has less marbling, but can still be tender when cooked properly. It has a slightly more pronounced beefy flavor, which can add depth to your French dip.
Ultimately, the best cut of meat for your French dip will depend on your personal preferences. Whether you prefer a rich, beefy flavor or a leaner, more tender cut, there is a cut of meat that will suit your taste. Experiment with different cuts to find your favorite and enjoy the deliciousness of a homemade French dip.
Seasoning and Marinating the Meat
Making the best French dip in a slow cooker starts with properly seasoning and marinating the meat. This step is crucial to infuse the meat with flavor and ensure tender and juicy results.
Begin by selecting a high-quality cut of beef, such as sirloin or eye of round. Trim off any excess fat from the meat, as it can make the dish greasy. Next, season the meat generously with a combination of herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. These aromatic ingredients will add depth and complexity to the final dish.
After seasoning, it’s time to marinate the meat. You can create a simple marinade using ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, beef broth, and a splash of red wine for added richness. Place the seasoned meat in a resealable plastic bag or a covered container, and pour the marinade over it. Allow the meat to marinate in the refrigerator for at least four to six hours, or overnight if possible. This step will help the flavors penetrate the meat and make it more succulent.
Once the meat has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before cooking. This will ensure even cooking throughout the meat. Discard the marinade and pat the meat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. You are now ready to proceed with cooking the meat in the slow cooker, creating a delicious and flavorful French dip sandwich.
Slow Cooking the French Dip
If you’re a fan of the classic French dip sandwich, then you’ll love this slow cooker recipe that allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of the sandwich without the hassle. Slow cooking the French dip is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this popular dish.
To make the perfect French dip in a slow cooker, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with a high-quality beef roast, such as a chuck roast or bottom round roast. These cuts of meat are well-suited for slow cooking and will become tender and juicy after hours in the slow cooker.
Next, you’ll want to season the roast with a flavorful blend of spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and black pepper. This will add depth and complexity to the overall taste of the French dip. You can also add a touch of Worcestershire sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Once the roast is seasoned, place it in the slow cooker along with beef broth and sliced onions. The beef broth will keep the meat moist and tender, while the onions will add a delicious sweetness to the au jus. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low heat for several hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
When the roast is done cooking, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. This will help retain the juices and ensure that the meat stays tender and flavorful. Serve the sliced beef on a baguette or French roll, along with a side of the flavorful au jus for dipping.
Slow cooking the French dip allows the flavors to meld together and creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is hard to resist. The tender beef, savory au jus, and crusty bread create the perfect combination of flavors and textures. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Creating the Perfect Au Jus Sauce for Your French Dip
One of the key components of a delicious French dip sandwich is the au jus sauce. This savory, rich liquid is what gives the sandwich its signature flavor and makes it an absolute delight to eat. Making the au jus sauce from scratch is surprisingly easy and well worth the effort for a superior dining experience.
To start, gather your ingredients. You’ll need beef broth, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a few additional spices. You can customize the flavor of your au jus sauce by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a splash of red wine for a more complex taste. Experiment with different combinations to find your personal favorite.
Begin by heating a small amount of oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until they become fragrant and translucent. Next, slowly pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Once your au jus sauce is ready, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids and achieve a smooth, velvety texture. This step is optional but recommended for a refined finish. You can serve the au jus sauce on the side, in individual dipping bowls, or pour it over the sandwiches directly before serving. Either way, your French dip sandwiches will be elevated to a new level of deliciousness with this homemade au jus sauce.
Assembling and Serving the French Dip
Once your beef roast is cooked and tender, it’s time to assemble your French dip sandwiches. Start by slicing the cooked roast thinly against the grain. This will help ensure tenderness and a nice texture for your sandwich.
Next, split your hoagie rolls or French bread lengthwise. Place the sliced roast beef on one side of the roll, and top it with a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese. The cheese will melt slightly from the heat of the roast beef.
In a small bowl or ramekin, pour some of the reserved beef juice for dipping. This au jus will add flavor and moisture to your sandwich. You can also serve additional condiments like horseradish sauce or mustard on the side, for those who prefer a little extra kick.
Summary:
Assembling and serving the French dip is a simple process. Slice your cooked roast beef thinly against the grain and place it on the bottom half of the split hoagie roll or French bread. Top it with a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese and place the top half of the roll on. Serve with a side of reserved beef juice for dipping, as well as additional condiments like horseradish sauce or mustard. Enjoy your homemade French dip sandwich!
10 Best French Dip Recipe Slow Cooker
Crock-Pot Large 8-Quart Slow Cooker
Features
| Part Number | 43237-2 |
| Model | SCCPVFC800-DS |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 8 Quarts |
Pacific Foods Organic Beef Broth Pack
Features
| Part Number | 42269 |
| Model | 05436 |
| Color | Low Sodium Beef |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2024-09-21T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) |
| Publication Date | 2010-07-10T00:00:01Z |
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Portable Slow Cooker
Features
| Part Number | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Model | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Size | 7 Quarts |
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker
Features
| Part Number | IP-DUO Plus60 |
| Model | 112-0156-01 |
| Color | Stainless Plus |
| Release Date | 2017-02-10T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
Campbell's Au Jus Gravy Can
Features
| Part Number | 5100002553 |
| Model | 200000002553 |
| Color | Multi |
| Release Date | 2025-01-10T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 10.5 Ounce (Pack of 24) |
Minor's Au Jus Prep Sauce
Features
| Part Number | 00074826901117 |
| Model | 00074826901117 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2016-04-15T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 1) |
Kraft Swiss Sliced Cheese, 5 Pound
Features
| Part Number | 60299 |
| Model | 60299 |
| Size | 5 Lb. |
Stainless Steel Dipping Sauce Cups
Features
| Part Number | FAF300675 |
| Model | FAF300675 |
| Color | Silver |
| Size | 1.5 oz |
FAQ
What is a French Dip sandwich?
A French Dip sandwich is a type of hot sandwich made with thinly sliced roast beef served on a French roll or baguette. It is typically served with a side of au jus, a flavorful dipping sauce made from the meat’s juices.
How is a French Dip sandwich assembled?
To assemble a French Dip sandwich, you start by slicing a French roll or baguette in half lengthwise. Then you add a generous amount of thinly sliced roast beef onto one side of the bread. You can also add cheese, such as Swiss or Provolone, if desired. Place the other half of the bread on top. Optionally, you can toast the sandwich in the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese and warm up the bread.
What is au jus?
Au jus is a French culinary term that means “with juice”. It refers to a flavorful dipping sauce made from the juices of the meat, typically roast beef. To make au jus, the drippings from the cooked meat are mixed with broth or stock, seasonings, and sometimes other ingredients like onions or garlic. The sauce is often served on the side of a French Dip sandwich for dipping.
How do you serve a French Dip sandwich with au jus?
To serve a French Dip sandwich with au jus, you can pour the au jus into small individual bowls or ramekins. Place the bowls alongside the sandwich on a serving plate or platter. Alternatively, you can also dip the entire sandwich into a larger dish of au jus before taking a bite. The warm, savory sauce enhances the flavors of the roast beef and bread.
Are there any variations of the French Dip sandwich?
Yes, there are variations of the French Dip sandwich. Some people like to add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to their sandwich for extra flavor. Others may use different types of meat, such as turkey or pork, instead of roast beef. Additionally, some recipes call for additional condiments like mustard or horseradish. The variations allow for personal preferences and experimentation with flavors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, assembling and serving the French Dip is a delightful culinary experience that satisfies both the taste buds and the senses. From the perfect blend of tender roast beef, melted cheese, and crusty bread to the savory au jus for dipping, every element of this classic dish contributes to its overall deliciousness. By following the step-by-step instructions and ensuring that each ingredient is of high quality, anyone can recreate the iconic French Dip sandwich in their own kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, the French Dip is sure to please even the most discerning palates. So gather your ingredients, get ready to dip, and prepare to savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures that the French Dip has to offer. Bon appétit!
