These Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a dream! Tender beef slow-cooked in savory broth makes each bite juicy and flavorful, perfect for dipping.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a sandwich that comes with its own sauce for dunking? It’s like a party for your taste buds! I love serving them with crispy fries on the side. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is key for tender and flavorful sandwiches. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using sirloin or brisket, but remember they may not be as tender as chuck after slow cooking.
Onion & Garlic: Sliced onions add sweetness and depth, while minced garlic gives a nice kick. For a milder taste, you can substitute with shallots. If you’re allergic to garlic, skip it or use garlic powder in smaller amounts.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought works too. Consider low-sodium versions if you watch your salt intake. Vegetable broth can work as a substitute for a lighter flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce & Soy Sauce: Both add umami to your dish. If you’re avoiding soy, opt for coconut aminos as a great alternative. You can use balsamic vinegar if you need a vegetarian option.
Hoagie Rolls: Fresh rolls are essential for sandwiches. If you can’t find hoagies, French bread or sourdough make great substitutes. For gluten-free options, try using gluten-free rolls.
How Do I Get My Roast Perfectly Tender?
The secret to tender beef lies in slow cooking! Use your slow cooker to work its magic. Start by seasoning the roast well and searing it in a skillet. This adds a rich flavor through browning.
- Cook on low for at least 8 hours. This allows the connective tissues to break down, making the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- After cooking, let the roast rest. This helps retain moisture when shredding it.
- Don’t skip soaking the shredded beef back in the juices. That will keep it flavorful and moist.
How to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Liquid and Seasoning:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 4-6 hoagie rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and then cooks in the slow cooker for 8 hours on low, or 4-5 hours on high. Just set it and forget it until you’re ready to enjoy some amazing sandwiches!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Roast:
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast all over with salt and pepper—don’t be shy, make it generous! Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, sear the roast for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. This step adds great flavor!
2. Slow Cooker Setup:
In the bottom of your slow cooker, lay down the sliced onion and minced garlic. This will create a flavorful base for the beef. Now, just place your beautifully seared roast right on top of that onion and garlic.
3. Adding Liquids and Herbs:
In a bowl, mix together the beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary. Pour this tasty mixture over the roast in the slow cooker. The roast will soak in all these wonderful flavors as it cooks!
4. Cooking the Roast:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. When it’s done, the beef should be so tender that it shreds easily with a fork. Yum!
5. Shredding the Beef:
Once your roast has cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef back into the slow cooker to soak up all those delicious juices.
6. Preparing the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to broil. Take the hoagie rolls and split them open. Fill each roll with a generous portion of the shredded beef and then lay two slices of provolone cheese on top of the meat.
7. Broiling the Sandwiches:
Place your sandwiches on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven under the broiler. Let them broil for about 2-3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This part adds a deliciously crispy touch to the sandwiches!
8. Serving Your Sandwiches:
Once your sandwiches are ready, serve them warm with a side of the cooking juices from the slow cooker for dipping—this is your au jus! Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your delightful French dip sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, you can use beef sirloin or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness and adjust accordingly. For a more flavorful option, brisket works well too!
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
If provolone isn’t your favorite, feel free to substitute it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss cheese. Each will melt beautifully and add a delicious creaminess to your sandwiches.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef and au jus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm the beef gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. Keep the sandwich components separate until you’re ready to assemble for the best texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything up to the cooking step the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, just throw it in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. The flavors will develop beautifully over time! You can also prepare the shredded beef in advance and assemble the sandwiches right before serving.
