There’s something wonderfully comforting about a meal that practically cooks itself, don’t you think? Picture this: the day is long, and you’re exhausted after juggling work and life’s demands. As you stroll into your kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked beef wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in a hearty feast. That’s exactly what you get with these Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches—rich, juicy goodness with minimal effort.
As you gather around the dinner table, the delight on everyone’s faces as they dip their warm, cheesy sandwiches into a savory au jus tells you all you need to know. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a comforting meal that can turn an ordinary weeknight into something special. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or seeking a cozy dinner companion for a movie night, these sandwiches are the perfect solution. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that celebrates the joy of homemade comfort food!
Why are Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches a must-try?
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set your slow cooker and let it do all the work.
Mouthwatering Aroma: The scent of slow-cooked beef and savory broth fills your kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere.
Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, these sandwiches cater to both busy families and casual get-togethers.
Warm Comfort: The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and warm au jus provides a satisfying experience that’s truly heartwarming.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing basic ingredients, this recipe keeps your wallet happy while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction.
Dig into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Ingredients
For the Beef
• Olive Oil – Adds fat for cooking and flavor; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
• Beef Chuck Roast – Provides the main protein and shreddable texture when cooked; can substitute with brisket for a richer taste.
• Kosher Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for enhancing flavor; use sea salt or table salt if unavailable.
For the Broth
• Dry Onion Soup Mix – Adds depth and flavor to the broth; substitute with homemade onion seasoning if desired.
• Water – Necessary for cooking, balancing the ingredients.
• Beef Broth (or Better-than-Bouillon) – Forms the flavorful base of the cooking liquid; any store-bought or homemade beef broth works well.
For the Sandwiches
• Crusty Rolls (Ciabatta or Hoagie) – Strong enough to hold the filling and for dipping; use any crusty bread variety.
• Swiss or Provolone Cheese – Melts atop the meat, adding creaminess and flavor; substitute with mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
Embrace the joy of creating Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches with these wholesome ingredients that promise to warm hearts and fill bellies!
How to Make Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches
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Sear the Beef (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sear each side for 1–2 minutes until it’s golden brown.
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Slow Cook: In your slow cooker, place the seared beef and any pan drippings. Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over it, then pour in the water and beef broth. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4–6 hours or LOW for 8–10 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
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Shred Beef: Once cooked, carefully transfer the tender beef to a bowl. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, enjoying the warm aromas as you do so.
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Assemble Sandwiches: Pile generous portions of shredded beef onto your sliced crusty rolls. Top with Swiss or provolone cheese, then arrange them on a baking sheet.
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Broil: Preheat your broiler and place the baking sheet of sandwiches on the middle rack. Broil for 2–3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is melted and the rolls are perfectly toasted.
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Serve: Ladle the warm broth into small bowls for dipping, and serve the sandwiches hot, perfect for a cozy gathering or family dinner.
Optional: Top with a dollop of horseradish mayo for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches
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Searing for Flavor: Searing the beef adds a depth of flavor that enhances your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches. Don’t skip this step if you have time!
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Fat Separator Use: To achieve a cleaner au jus, consider using a fat separator. It helps remove excess fat for a richer dipping experience.
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Frozen Beef Cooking Time: If using frozen beef, be sure to increase the cooking time by 2 hours for perfectly tender meat.
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Crockpot Liners: For effortless cleanup, use crockpot liners. They save time and hassle, making your cooking experience even more enjoyable.
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Storing Leftovers: Ensure you store leftover meat and au jus separately in airtight containers. This prevents sogginess and keeps the flavors intact for up to 4 days.
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches
Fridge: Store any leftover Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the beef and au jus separate to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded beef and au jus in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the beef and au jus on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time to ensure everything is heated thoroughly.
Broil Again: After reheating, you can broil the sandwiches for a couple of minutes to re-crisp the rolls and melt the cheese. Enjoy your comforting meal once more!
Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and customize these sandwiches to suit your taste buds!
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Brisket Swap: Try using beef brisket instead of chuck roast for an even richer flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Dairy-Free: Opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative to enjoy a similar creamy experience without the dairy.
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Garlic Kick: Spread a layer of roasted garlic aioli on the rolls before adding the beef for an extra layer of flavor that elevates your sandwich.
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Caramelized Onions: Add some caramelized onions into the sandwich filling for a sweet and savory twist that enhances the overall taste.
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Spicy Option: Mix in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat before serving, giving your sandwiches a zesty kick that’s sure to please heat lovers.
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Herbed Butter: Brush the crusty rolls with herbed garlic butter before toasting to add a burst of flavor and elevate the texture to new heights.
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Vegetarian Style: Swap the beef for portobello mushrooms or jackfruit, simmered in the same broth for a hearty, meat-free take on the classic.
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Cheese Medley: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack or gouda for unique flavor profiles that keep your sandwiches exciting each time.
Whether you’re seeking dietary swaps or flavor boosts, there’s a delightful variation waiting to be discovered!
What to Serve with Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Transform your meal into a delightful feast with a few tasty additions that complement the comforting, savory flavors of your sandwiches.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes add a luxurious texture on the side, soaking up any residual au jus and balancing the meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad filled with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwiches, lightening the overall meal.
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Crunchy Kettle Chips: The satisfying crunch of kettle chips creates a delightful textural contrast, while their savory, salty flavor enhances the beefy goodness of the sandwiches.
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Roasted Vegetable Medley: Colorful, caramelized veggies add a wholesome touch to your plate, adding a burst of nutrients that pairs wonderfully with the hearty main.
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Garlic Bread: This classic side, with its buttery, crispy exterior, complements every bite of your sandwiches, adding a satisfying crunch to your dining experience.
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Fruit Salad: A sweet and juicy fruit salad brings a refreshing end to your meal, brightening the palate after the savory indulgence of the French dip sandwiches.
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Dark Beer or Red Wine: Treat yourself to a glass of rich dark beer or full-bodied red wine to elevate the dining experience, rounding out the hearty flavors beautifully.
Each of these delightful pairings ensures that your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches shine even brighter, leading to a memorable meal shared with loved ones!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy home cooks! You can prepare the beef up to 24 hours in advance; just cook it in the slow cooker, then let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. The flavorful broth can also be made ahead and stored separately, ensuring the quality remains intact. When you’re ready to enjoy your sandwiches, simply reheat the shredded beef and broth in the microwave or on the stovetop. Assemble the sandwiches and pop them under the broiler for a quick 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and toast the rolls, giving you that comforting, homemade taste with minimal effort!
Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Absolutely! A beef chuck roast is ideal for this recipe as it becomes wonderfully tender when slow-cooked. You can also swap it for brisket if you’re looking for a richer flavor and a different texture.
How should I store leftover Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
To store leftovers, keep the beef and au jus in separate airtight containers to preserve texture and flavor. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the beef cool before sealing it up!
Can I freeze Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Very much so! If you want to freeze it, place the shredded beef and au jus in airtight containers or freezer bags. These will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat.
How do I know if my beef is cooked properly in the slow cooker?
The best indicator is to check if it’s fork-tender. You should be able to shred the beef easily with two forks. If it’s still tough, continue cooking and check periodically until it reaches that melt-in-your-mouth consistency, which typically takes about 8–10 hours on low or 4–6 hours on high.
Can I substitute any ingredients if I have allergies?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free bread and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free as well. You can also use homemade onion seasoning instead of dry onion soup mix if you’re avoiding additives.
What should I serve with Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches?
Pairing these sandwiches with roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or crunchy kettle chips makes for a well-rounded meal. Each bite of juicy beef with warm au jus is perfect alongside these side options—comfort food at its finest!
Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches: Effortless Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sear the Beef (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef chuck roast with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sear each side for 1–2 minutes until it’s golden brown.
- Slow Cook: In your slow cooker, place the seared beef and any pan drippings. Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix over it, then pour in the water and beef broth. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4–6 hours or LOW for 8–10 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
- Shred Beef: Once cooked, carefully transfer the tender beef to a bowl. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Pile generous portions of shredded beef onto your sliced crusty rolls. Top with Swiss or provolone cheese, then arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Broil: Preheat your broiler and place the baking sheet of sandwiches on the middle rack. Broil for 2–3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is melted and the rolls are perfectly toasted.
- Serve: Ladle the warm broth into small bowls for dipping, and serve the sandwiches hot.