Why Make This Recipe
Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are a hearty and savory meal that is perfect for busy days. With minimal effort, you can enjoy tender, juicy beef piled high on delicious rolls, all served with a rich and flavorful dipping sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings warm, comforting flavors to your table, making it a great choice for family dinners and gatherings.
How to Make Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
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
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. This ensures that every bite of your sandwich is full of flavor. If you have a few extra minutes, searing the beef in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker will give it a beautiful crust and deepen the flavors.
Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a delicious flavor base and prevents the beef from sticking. Lay the seasoned beef chuck roast on top of the onions. Then, pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. These ingredients combine to create a rich, savory broth that will later be used as the dipping sauce.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: 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 it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker so it can soak up even more of the flavorful juices.
Step 5: Toast the Hoagie Rolls
For the best texture, lightly toast the hoagie rolls before assembling the sandwiches. You can do this by placing them under the broiler for a minute or two or toasting them in a dry skillet until golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Using tongs, pile the shredded beef onto each hoagie roll. Top with a slice of provolone cheese and place the sandwiches under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve with Au Jus
Strain the cooking liquid to remove the onions and pour the remaining broth into small bowls for dipping. Serve each sandwich with a side of this flavorful au jus and enjoy!
How to Serve Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
Serve these sandwiches hot, allowing each person to dip their sandwich into the au jus. Pair with sides like fries, potato chips, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
To store leftovers, place the shredded beef and broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. For best results, store the hoagie rolls separately to maintain their texture.
Tips to Make Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
- For extra flavor, consider adding sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker.
- Use low-sodium beef broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- If you prefer a thicker dipping sauce, consider simmering the broth on the stove after cooking to reduce it.
Variation
For a lighter option, try using turkey or chicken breast in place of beef. You can also swap out provolone for other cheese types, like mozzarella or Swiss, depending on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! You can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but they may have different cooking times.
2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients the night before and let them cook in the slow cooker the next day.
3. What should I do if I have leftovers?
Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for later use. To reheat, warm the beef and broth on the stove or in the microwave.