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French Dip Sandwich Recipe

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3.9 from 12 reviews

This classic French Dip Sandwich recipe features tender, slow-cooked chuck roast simmered in a savory broth of condensed beef and French onion soup, beer, and aromatic seasonings. Served on toasted buttered French rolls with flavorful jus for dipping, it's a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Beef and Jus

  • 3 to 4 pounds chuck roast (or rump roast)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 10.5 ounces condensed beef broth (1 can, low sodium)
  • 10.5 ounces condensed French onion soup (or condensed onion soup, 1 can)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
  • 12 ounces light beer
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Sandwich Assembly

  • 8 French rolls (or 2 baguettes cut into 6-inch rolls)
  • ½ cup butter

Instructions

  1. Season and Brown the Roast: Season the chuck roast thoroughly with kosher salt and black pepper. Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides until browned, developing a rich crust that enhances the flavor.
  2. Prepare and Cook in Slow Cooker: Place the browned roast into a slow cooker. Add condensed beef broth, condensed French onion soup, sliced onions, light beer, minced garlic, rosemary sprig (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef becomes tender and easy to shred.
  3. Rest and Slice the Meat: Remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Then shred or slice the beef into desired thickness for the sandwiches.
  4. Toast the Rolls: Spread butter on the French rolls. Place them under a broiler until they are lightly toasted and golden brown, creating a crisp texture and buttery flavor.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Fill the toasted rolls with the sliced or shredded beef. Serve the sandwiches hot alongside the hot jus from the slow cooker, perfect for dipping each bite to amplify the rich flavors.

Notes

  • You can substitute rump roast if chuck roast is unavailable.
  • For a deeper flavor, let the beef broth and onion soup simmer a bit longer before placing in the slow cooker.
  • If you prefer, skip the rosemary or substitute with thyme for a different herbaceous note.
  • Use low sodium broth and soups to better control salt levels.
  • The jus is fantastic as a dip; don’t discard it and consider straining it if you prefer a clearer broth.
  • To make the sandwich more indulgent, add melted Swiss cheese or caramelized onions on top of the beef before serving.