Easy Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than these Easy Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches. Made with tender, fall-apart beef cooked in a rich, savory broth and served on a toasted hoagie roll with melted cheese, these sandwiches are a true crowd-pleaser. What takes them to the next level is dipping them into the luscious au jus that’s been simmering with the beef for hours—resulting in a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality experience right at home.

French dip sandwiches, also known as “beef dip,” originated in Los Angeles and have since become a beloved classic. The slow-cooked beef, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, pairs perfectly with the crispy bread and melted provolone or Swiss cheese. The star of the show, however, is the au jus—a rich, beefy broth that adds moisture and flavor to every bite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using a slow cooker allows the beef to cook low and slow, resulting in tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it, making this recipe perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.

These French dip sandwiches are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can serve them with a variety of sides such as crispy fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. They’re also great for game days, family gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting and satisfying meal.

For extra flavor, you can add sautéed onions and mushrooms or spread a bit of horseradish sauce on the rolls before adding the beef. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, these slow cooker French dip sandwiches will become a go-to favorite in your home.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to prepare the perfect French dip sandwich, complete with tips to ensure your beef is tender, your bread is toasted to perfection, and your au jus is flavorful and rich.

Servings

• Yield: 6 sandwiches
• Serving Size: 1 sandwich with au jus

Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 pounds beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 6 hoagie rolls or French baguettes
• 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
• Optional: sautéed onions and mushrooms for topping

Instructions

1. Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Add Aromatics and Liquids: Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Pour the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce over the beef. Sprinkle with dried thyme and rosemary for extra flavor.
3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to soak in the flavorful au jus.
5. Toast the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the hoagie rolls or baguettes and place them on a baking sheet. Add a slice of provolone or Swiss cheese to each roll and toast in the oven for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches: Pile the shredded beef onto the toasted rolls and top with sautéed onions and mushrooms if desired.
7. Prepare the Au Jus: Strain the liquid from the slow cooker to remove any solids. Serve the au jus in small bowls for dipping.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the sandwiches hot with a side of au jus for dipping.

Tips

• Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful after hours of simmering.
• Extra Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine to the broth for a richer au jus.
• Toasted Perfection: Lightly butter the rolls before toasting for an extra golden, crispy texture.
• Make It Ahead: The beef can be made a day ahead and reheated for easy assembly.
• Customizable Additions: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or horseradish sauce to personalize your sandwich.

Summary

These Easy Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches offer melt-in-your-mouth beef, savory au jus, and crispy toasted rolls with melted cheese. Perfect for busy days or gatherings, they’re simple to make and loaded with flavor. Dip each bite in rich au jus for the ultimate indulgence.