Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are the answer! The tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, slow-cooked with onions and butter, is paired with a savory dipping sauce that elevates the flavors to new heights. These sandwiches are a crowd-pleasing favorite and require minimal effort to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are everything you could want in a comfort food dish: rich, tender beef with a flavorful, savory broth for dipping, all served in a warm, toasted hoagie roll. The chuck roast becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in the slow cooker, absorbing all the delicious seasonings, and the melted provolone cheese adds a creamy, indulgent touch. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 large yellow onion, sliced

• 4 lb chuck roast, trimmed

• 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

• 1 oz au jus gravy mix (1 packet)

• 1 oz onion soup mix (1 packet)

• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 2 cups beef broth

For the Sandwiches:

• 8 medium hoagie rolls

• 3 tbsp butter, softened

• 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced

• Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Beef:

1. Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Season the chuck roast with black pepper on both sides and place it on top of the onions.

3. Sprinkle the au jus mix and onion soup mix over the top of the beef.

4. In a separate bowl, mix together the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker.

   • If you prefer more gravy for dipping, feel free to add extra beef broth.

5. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours, or until the beef is very tender and falls apart easily.

Shred the Beef:

6. Carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.

7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the onions from the slow cooker and place them in a separate bowl.

8. Using a fine-mesh strainer, pour the drippings from the slow cooker into a bowl or gravy boat. This will be your dipping sauce.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

9. Cut the hoagie rolls open and spread softened butter on the inside (if desired). Toast the rolls in the oven until lightly browned.

10. Top each toasted roll with shredded beef, onions, and provolone cheese.

11. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.

Serve:

12. Serve the sandwiches with the warm dipping sauce on the side for dunking. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 8 hours

• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Add some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the sandwiches for extra flavor and texture.

• Cheese Variations: Use Swiss cheese, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy Kick: Add a bit of horseradish to the sandwiches or mix it into the dipping sauce for a spicy twist.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with portobello mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover beef, onions, and dipping sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the shredded beef in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little of the dipping sauce to keep it moist. Toast the sandwich rolls when ready to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its tenderness and rich flavor.

2. Can I cook this recipe on HIGH instead of LOW?

If you’re short on time, you can cook it on HIGH for about 4 to 5 hours, but the beef might not be as tender as when cooked on LOW for a longer period.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before assembling the sandwiches. Just reheat the beef and sauce before serving.

4. Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the dipping sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it when ready to serve.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover shredded beef and dipping sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready to serve.

6. Can I use a different type of bread?

While hoagie rolls are traditional, you can use any type of sandwich roll or baguette. A French baguette would add extra crunch.

7. How do I keep the beef from drying out when reheating?

Reheat the beef with some of the reserved dipping sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.

8. Can I use a store-bought au jus mix?

Yes, you can use a store-bought au jus gravy mix, but make sure to choose a low-sodium version for a healthier option.

9. Can I add more seasoning to the beef?

Feel free to add more spices or herbs such as garlic powder, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor, especially if you like your beef more seasoned.

10. Can I use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup?

Yes, using a slow cooker liner can make cleanup much easier, especially when cooking fatty cuts of meat like chuck roast.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a perfect combination of tender, flavorful beef and a rich, savory dipping sauce. The slow-cooked beef melts in your mouth, and the toasted hoagie rolls with gooey provolone cheese make for an indulgent, satisfying sandwich. Whether you’re serving these for a family dinner or at a party, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone! Try this recipe today for an easy, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor.

Print