Crock pot French dip sandwiches are a juicy, savory delight that your family will love! This recipe is super simple and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The tender beef and melted cheese will make this sandwich a hit anytime!
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Why You’ll Love Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
These crock pot French dip sandwiches are not just about convenience; they offer a robust flavor profile that warms your soul. Imagine sinking your teeth into a hoagie roll filled with juicy, shredded beef, topped with gooey provolone cheese, and served with a rich au jus for dipping. They’re hearty, satisfying, and kid-approved, making them an ideal choice for busy families.
Ingredients for Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
Essential Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Optional Ingredients and Variations
If you want to mix things up, consider using brisket or rump roast instead of chuck roast. You can also swap provolone for Swiss or mozzarella cheese to suit your taste. Each variation adds a unique twist to this classic dish!
How to Make Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef
First, season the beef chuck roast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. For an extra layer of flavor, sear the beef in a hot skillet until browned before placing it in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Next, layer the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seasoned beef on top, then pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. This combination will create a mouthwatering au jus as it cooks.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is tender enough to be easily shredded. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner!
Step 4: Shred the Beef
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker to soak up even more of that delicious juice.
Step 5: Toast the Hoagie Rolls
While the beef soaks in the flavor, lightly toast the hoagie rolls under the broiler or in a dry skillet until they are golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender beef.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Fill each hoagie roll with a generous portion of shredded beef. Top with a slice of provolone cheese and place them back under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully over the beef.
Step 7: Serve with Au Jus
To serve, strain the cooking liquid to remove the onions and pour it into small bowls for dipping. This rich au jus is the perfect accompaniment to your sandwiches, adding an extra layer of flavor with every bite.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
For a thicker dipping sauce, you can simmer the au jus on the stove for a few minutes to reduce it. If you have leftover beef, it can be repurposed in tacos, beef bowls, or salads, adding protein and flavor to other meals.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4-6 sandwiches
Method: Slow Cooker
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover shredded beef and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the beef for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet with some au jus or microwave in intervals for quick meals.
FAQs About crock pot french dip sandwiches
How do you cook a french dip sandwich in a crockpot?
To cook a french dip sandwich in a crockpot, season and sear a beef roast, then layer it with onions and beef broth in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender. Shred the beef, assemble in hoagie rolls with cheese, and serve with au jus.
How long can a french dip sandwich last in the fridge?
A french dip sandwich can last in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
What makes a good french dip sandwich?
A good french dip sandwich features tender, flavorful beef, melted cheese, and a rich au jus for dipping. Fresh hoagie rolls that can hold the ingredients without falling apart are also key.
Why are they called French dip sandwiches?
They are called French dip sandwiches because they were created in Los Angeles by French immigrants who served the sandwich with a dipping sauce, which resembles the traditional French culinary style.
Related Recipes to Try
- Crock Pot Beef Stew
- Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage Tortellini
- Slow Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe
- Homemade Beef Stew
- Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Conclusion
In summary, these crock pot French dip sandwiches are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You can find more inspiration for meal planning on our Pinterest page, where we share a variety of recipes. Enjoy the comfort and flavor of this timeless dish, perfect for any occasion!
Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- skillet
- broiler
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Season the beef chuck roast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme, then sear it in a hot skillet if desired.
- Place sliced onions in the slow cooker, add the seasoned beef, and pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and shreddable.
- Shred the beef with two forks and return it to the slow cooker to soak up the juices.
- Toast the hoagie rolls under the broiler or in a skillet until golden brown.
- Fill each hoagie roll with shredded beef, top with provolone cheese, and broil for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Strain the cooking liquid to remove onions and serve it in small bowls for dipping with the sandwiches.