French Dip Sandwich Recipe – Easy Slow Cooker Dinner

Who doesn’t love a hot, cheesy, juicy French Dip Sandwich that practically melts in your mouth? With fall-apart slow cooker beef, golden-toasted hoagie rolls, provolone cheese, and a rich, savory au jus dipping sauce, this is the sandwich of your dreams.

This recipe isn’t just another crockpot sandwich—it’s a restaurant-quality French Dip, right from your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party or want a cozy weeknight dinner, this sandwich is the perfect comfort food. And with just 15 minutes of prep, your slow cooker does the hard work.

Why You’ll Love This French Dip Sandwich

• Easy Crockpot Method – Just dump, cook, and shred.
• Melty Provolone Cheese – The perfect topping for juicy beef.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead, freeze, or enjoy all week.
• Restaurant Flavor at Home – A deli classic you can DIY.
• Family Favorite – Kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and customizable.

Best way to make French dip sandwiches at home? This recipe checks every box!

Ingredients for French Dip Sandwich

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast
  Best cut for tender, shreddable beef sandwiches.
• 2 onions, thinly sliced
  Adds sweetness and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  Fresh garlic = flavor booster.
• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Sandwich Build:

• 6 hoagie rolls or sub rolls
  Crispy outside, soft inside.
• 6 slices provolone cheese
  Melts like a dream over hot beef.

Optional Upgrades:

• Add pepperoncini for heat
• Substitute Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• Use gluten-free buns for a GF option

How to Make French Dip Sandwich – Step by Step

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Thinly slice onions and mince garlic.
• Trim visible fat from chuck roast.

Step 2: Mix the Cooking Liquid

In a medium bowl, combine:

• Beef broth
• Soy sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Thyme
• Black pepper

Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker

• Place beef chuck roast in the bottom.
• Add sliced onions and garlic on top.
• Pour the liquid mixture over everything.

Step 4: Cook Low & Slow

• Set to LOW for 8 hours (or HIGH for 5–6 hours).
• The beef is ready when it shreds easily with a fork.

Step 5: Shred the Beef

• Remove the roast and use two forks to pull apart.
• Return shredded beef to the slow cooker to soak in juices.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Split hoagie rolls and place them open on a baking sheet.
• Fill each roll with shredded beef and a slice of provolone.

Step 7: Melt & Toast

• Bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
• Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden finish.

Step 8: Serve with Au Jus

• Strain and ladle warm au jus into ramekins or small bowls.
• Dip each bite for maximum flavor!

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Dip

What is the secret to a great French Dip Sandwich?

• Use chuck roast for tender, juicy meat.
• Toast the rolls lightly before filling—prevents sogginess.
• Don’t skimp on the au jus—it’s half the experience!

Can I make French Dip ahead of time?
Yes! This is a meal prep MVP. Store beef and au jus separately, then reheat, assemble, and toast when ready to eat.

Best cheese for French Dip Sandwiches?
Provolone is classic, but Swiss, mozzarella, and Gruyère work beautifully too.

Best Sides to Serve with French Dip Sandwiches

• Crispy Garlic Parmesan Fries
• Creamy Coleslaw
• Pickle Spears or Pepperoncini
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Simple Green Salad

Nutrition Info (Per Sandwich)

• Calories: 590 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 980mg

Values will vary with bread, cheese, and portion size.

Storage & Reheating Tips

How long does French Dip last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can you freeze French Dip beef?
Yes! Freeze beef with some au jus in zip-top bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips:

• Stovetop: Simmer beef in au jus until hot.
• Microwave: Reheat gently with a splash of broth.
• Oven: Re-toast rolls and reassemble.

FAQs – French Dip Sandwich

Q: What is au jus?

A: It’s a rich beefy dipping sauce made from the juices the meat was cooked in.

Q: What type of beef is used for French Dip Sandwiches?

A: Chuck roast is the best cut for tenderness and flavor.

Q: Can I make French Dip without a slow cooker?

A: Yes! Use a Dutch oven or Instant Pot. The goal is tender, shredded beef in a flavorful broth.

Q: Can I make French Dip Sandwiches gluten-free?

A: Yes—use GF hoagie rolls and gluten-free soy sauce/Worcestershire.

Related Recipes

• Nacho Cheese Beef Wrap 
• Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

Conclusion

Now you know how to make the best French Dip Sandwich at home—from scratch, slow cooker-style, and packed with cheesy, beefy flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving a crowd, this easy sandwich delivers every time.

Tried this recipe? Let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share it on Pinterest or Facebook!

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