French Dip Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The French Dip Sandwich is all about rich flavors and irresistible textures. The juicy roast beef, melty cheese (if you choose to add it), and crusty roll come together beautifully, and the warm au jus adds an extra layer of indulgence. It’s a versatile recipe—great for a cozy lunch, a game-day meal, or a casual dinner. Plus, it’s quick to prepare using store-bought or leftover roast beef.

Ingredients

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

• Thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or homemade)
• French rolls, hoagie rolls, or baguettes
• Beef broth or au jus concentrate
• Onion (optional, for sautéing)
• Garlic (optional, for added depth in au jus)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Soy sauce (optional for umami)
• Provolone or Swiss cheese (optional)
• Butter (for toasting rolls)
• Black pepper
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional for herbaceous au jus)

Directions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine beef broth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), and optional garlic or herbs. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to develop flavor.
2. While the au jus simmers, toast the rolls: slice them open and lightly butter the insides. Toast them on a skillet or under a broiler until golden.
3. Warm the roast beef by placing it briefly in the simmering au jus, then remove and set aside.
4. If using cheese, layer it on the bottom half of each roll. Top with warmed roast beef.
5. Close the sandwiches and serve with a small bowl of the hot au jus on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy melt: Add provolone, Swiss, or mozzarella cheese and broil the sandwich open-faced until bubbly.
• Caramelized onions: Sauté sliced onions in butter and layer them onto the sandwich for extra flavor.
• Garlic butter rolls: Brush rolls with garlic butter before toasting for added depth.
• Spicy kick: Add horseradish sauce or sliced jalapeños to the sandwich.
• Different meats: Use thinly sliced prime rib or even turkey for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover components separately. Keep roast beef and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the au jus in a saucepan and briefly dip the beef into it to heat through. Re-toast the rolls for best texture before assembling the sandwich.
Avoid microwaving assembled sandwiches to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

What is au jus?

Au jus is a French term meaning “with juice,” referring to the flavorful broth served with the sandwich for dipping.

Can I use store-bought roast beef?

Yes, deli-sliced roast beef works great and makes this recipe quick and convenient.

How do I make the au jus richer?

Simmer it with sautéed onions, garlic, a splash of Worcestershire, and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

What kind of bread works best?

Sturdy, crusty rolls like baguettes or hoagie rolls hold up well to dipping without falling apart.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

It’s best assembled just before serving, but you can prepare the meat and au jus in advance.

Is cheese traditional in a French Dip Sandwich?

Cheese isn’t traditional but is a popular addition. Provolone and Swiss are great choices.

How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

Toast the rolls before assembling and serve the au jus on the side for dipping rather than pouring it over.

Can I use homemade roast beef?

Absolutely. Leftover roast beef from a roast dinner works beautifully in this sandwich.

What sides go well with French Dip Sandwiches?

Fries, potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad make great accompaniments.

Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?

While the meat and au jus can be frozen, the assembled sandwich is best made fresh to preserve texture.

Conclusion

The French Dip Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food with its savory beef, warm crusty bread, and rich dipping broth. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to satisfy. Whether you’re using leftovers or deli cuts, this sandwich delivers bold flavor and comforting warmth with every bite.

French Dip Sandwich

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The French Dip Sandwich is a hearty classic made with thinly sliced roast beef served on a toasted crusty roll with a savory au jus for dipping. It’s warm, comforting, and full of flavor, perfect for a quick meal or casual dinner.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Simmering & Assembling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style or homemade)
• 4 French rolls, hoagie rolls, or baguette sections
• 3 cups beef broth or au jus concentrate
• 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
• 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter (for toasting rolls)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 sprig fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), and optional garlic or herbs. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to develop flavor.
2. If using onions, sauté them separately in butter until caramelized and set aside.
3. Slice rolls in half, lightly butter the insides, and toast on a skillet or under a broiler until golden.
4. Briefly warm roast beef by dipping slices into the simmering au jus, then remove.
5. Layer cheese (if using) on the bottom half of each toasted roll, then top with warmed roast beef (and onions if desired).
6. Close the sandwiches and serve with a small bowl of hot au jus on the side for dipping.

Notes

• Deli-sliced roast beef makes this recipe quick and easy, but homemade roast beef works great too.
• For a richer au jus, simmer with onions, garlic, and herbs.
• Always toast rolls to prevent sogginess when dipping.
• Cheese is not traditional but adds extra flavor and texture.
• Assemble sandwiches just before serving for the best results.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich (with au jus, based on 4 servings)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 1180mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 95mg