These Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are so easy to make and oh-so-tasty! Tender beef slowly cooks in a rich, flavorful broth until it’s fall-apart good. Just slice, dip, and enjoy!
I love how this recipe fills the house with delicious smells while it cooks. Pair it with some gooey cheese on a crusty roll, and you’ve got a meal that’s perfect for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking since it becomes tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using a brisket or flank steak. Just remember, it may not be as juicy!
Olive Oil: I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. However, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil if you want something milder.
Onion: Sweet or yellow onions work best for this recipe. If you’re out of onions, shallots make a great substitute for a similar taste.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is amazing if you have it, but store-bought works too. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option, but it will change the flavor.
Provolone Cheese: Though I love provolone for its meltability, mozzarella or cheddar are good alternatives. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese slices!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Searing the Roast?
Searing the roast is a key step to locking in flavor. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the oil. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. You can sprinkle a drop of water in; if it sizzles, it’s ready!
- Generously season your roast with salt and pepper. This enhances the crust and flavor.
- Add olive oil, and once it shimmers, place the roast in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned.
This method creates a crust that locks in juices, making your French dip sandwiches extra delicious!
How to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
- French rolls or hoagie buns
- Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep time and then you’ll need to let it cook in the slow cooker for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. Once it’s done cooking, you’ll spend another 10 minutes preparing the sandwiches. Perfect for a cozy day at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Roast:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. While it warms up, sprinkle salt and pepper on the beef chuck roast. Once the oil is hot, add the roast to the skillet and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This step is super important because it adds a lot of flavor to the meat!
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
Grab your slow cooker and set it up. Place the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will give your beef a flavorful base as it cooks.
3. Add Ingredients:
Now, gently place the seared roast on top of the onion and garlic. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle in the thyme and rosemary. Once everything is added, cover the slow cooker with its lid.
4. Cook:
Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8-10 hours, or if you’re short on time, set it to high for 4-6 hours. When the meat is tender and easily pulled apart, it’s ready!
5. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. This is going to make your sandwiches delicious! Return the shredded beef back into the slow cooker to soak up all those tasty juices.
6. Prepare the Sandwiches:
If you want to warm up your rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the French rolls or hoagie buns open and pile on a generous serving of the shredded beef. If you like cheese, add some provolone on top and arrange the sandwiches on a baking sheet.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Pop the sandwiches in the oven and let them bake for about 5-7 minutes. You want to see that cheese melted and bubbly — that’s when it’s perfect!
8. Serve:
Time to enjoy your delicious sandwiches! Serve them warm with a small bowl of the beef broth from the slow cooker for dipping. You can also sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch!
Enjoy your delightful Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that different cuts may vary in cooking time and tenderness, so adjust accordingly and ensure the meat is cooked until tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before assembling the sandwiches. Just reheat the shredded beef in the slow cooker or on the stovetop with some added beef broth to keep it moist before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the shredded beef in a skillet or microwave. If you want to enjoy the sandwiches again, you can toast fresh rolls before filling them with the beef.
What Type of Cheese Works Best for French Dip Sandwiches?
Provolone is a classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar for a different flavor. Experiment with your favorite cheese to find what you love best!
