If you’re looking for a cozy meal that practically makes itself, Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are the answer. This delightful dish features tender, flavorful beef that’s simmered to perfection in a rich broth, ready to be piled high on a soft roll. With a few simple ingredients and the magic of a slow cooker, you can create a comforting dinner that your family will love. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy the satisfaction of a hearty sandwich dunked in savory au jus?
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to let the slow cooker do all the work. Just toss in your ingredients and let them meld together over several hours. The result? Juicy, melt-in-your-mouth beef that you can enjoy in a sandwich or on its own. It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a fantastic go-to for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredient Rundown
Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches:
- 3 pounds chuck roast (beef roast or rump roast also work, anywhere from 2.5-4 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 medium onion (sliced thin, optional)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 medium bay leaf
- 6 sub-style rolls (also called sausage rolls; these are typically wider than a hot dog bun)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted, salted)
- 6 slices provolone cheese
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary equipment:
- Crock Pot – A must-have for slow cooking your beef to tender perfection.
- Sharp Knife – For slicing the onion and the cooked beef.
- Cutting Board – To keep your prep area clean and organized.
- Measuring Spoons – To accurately measure your spices.
- Serving Spoon – For dishing out the beef and broth.
- Broiler (optional) – For toasting the rolls and melting the cheese.
Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by seasoning the chuck roast with oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices into the meat to ensure it’s well-coated.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion (optional)
If you’re using onion, slice it thinly and sauté it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s translucent. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor.
Step 3: Load the Crock Pot
Place the seasoned roast in the crock pot. If you sautéed the onions, scatter them on top of the beef. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then add the bay leaf.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours. The long cooking time will help the beef become incredibly tender.
Step 5: Shred the Beef
Once the cooking time is up, remove the roast from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. It should fall apart easily.
Step 6: Toast the Rolls
While you’re shredding the beef, preheat your broiler. Brush the insides of the sub rolls with melted butter and toast them under the broiler until golden brown.
Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches
Place a generous amount of shredded beef on the bottom half of each toasted roll. Top with a slice of provolone cheese, then place the top half of the roll on. If desired, you can put the sandwiches back under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese.
Step 8: Serve with Au Jus
Serve the sandwiches with a small bowl of the cooking liquid from the crock pot for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches!
Customize for Your Needs
One of the best things about Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches is their versatility. Here are some ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes:
- Add sliced peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
- Swap out the beef broth for a low-sodium option if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Use gluten-free rolls to make this dish suitable for gluten-intolerant guests.
- For a spicy kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef before serving.
Cook’s Notes
Here are some additional tips to make your Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches the best they can be:
- For even more flavor, consider browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your personal preferences.
- Make sure to let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding for easier handling.
- If you have leftovers, they make for a great lunch the next day!
Storage & Reheat Guide
To store any leftover Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches, follow these guidelines:
- Allow the beef and broth to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in a saucepan or microwave. The beef can also be reheated in the crock pot on low.
- When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to keep the beef moist.
Common Questions
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use rump roast or other cuts like brisket. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I serve with French dip sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides, such as Sweet And Sticky Hoisin Beef Rice Bowls, crispy fries, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the roast and place it in the crock pot the night before. Just refrigerate it and set it to cook in the morning for a ready-to-eat dinner.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To lighten up your Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches, consider using leaner cuts of beef, reducing the amount of cheese, or opting for whole-grain rolls.
End your meal on a sweet note with these delightful desserts:
Hungry for More?
If you enjoyed these Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches, be sure to explore more comforting recipes on our blog. Each dish is crafted to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table, making every meal an occasion to remember. From savory stews to delightful desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Happy cooking!
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Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by seasoning the chuck roast with oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices into the meat to ensure it's well-coated.
- If you’re using onion, slice it thinly and sauté it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s translucent. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Place the seasoned roast in the crock pot. If you sautéed the onions, scatter them on top of the beef. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then add the bay leaf.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-5 hours. The long cooking time will help the beef become incredibly tender.
- Once the cooking time is up, remove the roast from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. It should fall apart easily.
- While you’re shredding the beef, preheat your broiler. Brush the insides of the sub rolls with melted butter and toast them under the broiler until golden brown.
- Place a generous amount of shredded beef on the bottom half of each toasted roll. Top with a slice of provolone cheese, then place the top half of the roll on. If desired, you can put the sandwiches back under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese.
- Serve the sandwiches with a small bowl of the cooking liquid from the crock pot for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches!
Notes
- For even more flavor, consider browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your personal preferences.
- Make sure to let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding for easier handling.
- If you have leftovers, they make for a great lunch the next day!
