Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is all about big flavor with minimal effort. Using deli-sliced roast beef makes the sandwiches quick and convenient, while still achieving that classic French dip experience. Toasted hoagie rolls, gooey melted cheese, and warm beef dipped in a homemade au jus—what’s not to love? It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
deli-sliced roast beef
hoagie rolls or French sandwich rolls
provolone or Swiss cheese slices
beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
soy sauce
onion powder
garlic powder
black pepper
butter (for toasting rolls)
optional: sautéed onions or horseradish sauce
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat to create the au jus.
- Add deli roast beef to the pot and let it warm in the au jus for about 3–4 minutes. Do not boil.
- Slice the rolls and lightly butter the insides. Toast in the oven or on a skillet until golden brown.
- Remove roast beef from the au jus using tongs and layer onto the toasted rolls.
- Top each sandwich with slices of provolone or Swiss cheese. Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with small bowls of the warm au jus on the side for dipping.
Servings and timing
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add onions: Sauté sliced onions in butter until caramelized and add to sandwiches for extra flavor.
- Garlic butter rolls: Mix minced garlic into the butter before toasting the rolls.
- Spicy twist: Spread a thin layer of horseradish or spicy mustard on the rolls.
- Different cheese: Try mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for a new flavor profile.
- Make it a meal: Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover beef and au jus separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the beef in the au jus on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. Toast fresh rolls and reassemble the sandwiches just before serving.
Freezing is not recommended, as deli meat and bread may change texture after thawing.
FAQs
Can I use leftover roast beef instead of deli slices?
Yes! Thinly slice your leftover roast beef and warm it in the au jus just like deli meat.
What type of cheese is best?
Provolone and Swiss are traditional, but any melty cheese will work well.
Are these sandwiches freezer-friendly?
Not really. The bread and deli meat don’t freeze well together and may become soggy upon reheating.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the au jus and roast beef in advance, but assemble and toast the sandwiches just before serving for best results.
What’s the best bread to use?
Hoagie rolls, French rolls, or any sturdy sandwich roll that holds up to dipping will work well.
How do I keep the sandwiches 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 bouillon instead of beef broth?
Yes, dissolve bouillon cubes or paste in hot water according to the package instructions to substitute for broth.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the cheesy beef and dipping aspect—just go easy on any spicy sauces.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted peppers make great additions.
What drinks pair well with French dip sandwiches?
Iced tea, a cold beer, or a bold red wine all pair wonderfully with this savory sandwich.
Conclusion
Easy French Dip Sandwiches with Deli Roast Beef are the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort. With melty cheese, flavorful au jus, and warm, crusty rolls, this meal delivers big on taste without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a casual party, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit.
PrintEasy French Dip Sandwiches with Deli Roast Beef
Easy French Dip Sandwiches with Deli Roast Beef are a quick and flavorful take on the classic, made with deli beef, melty cheese, toasted rolls, and a rich homemade au jus for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 lb deli-sliced roast beef
- 4 hoagie rolls or French sandwich rolls
- 8 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter (for toasting rolls)
- Optional: sautéed onions or horseradish sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, combine beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Simmer over medium heat.
- Add roast beef to the broth and warm for 3–4 minutes. Do not boil.
- Split the rolls and butter the insides. Toast in the oven or on a skillet until golden.
- Use tongs to remove beef from the au jus and layer onto toasted rolls.
- Top with cheese slices and place sandwiches on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with small bowls of au jus for dipping.
Notes
- Use leftover roast beef instead of deli meat for a homemade touch.
- Caramelized onions add extra depth of flavor.
- Toast rolls well to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1450mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
