Craving a meal that’s both easy and packed with flavor? Look no further than my Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches Au Jus! With tender beef chuck roast, savory seasonings, and gooey provolone, these sandwiches are sure to please. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you. Dive in, and I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a delicious dinner that will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving
- 6 hoagie or sub rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
When making French dip sandwiches, start with the beef chuck roast. This cut is perfect for slow cooking. It becomes tender and juicy. Slicing one onion adds sweetness. The minced garlic gives a nice kick.
Next, you need beef broth. This is the heart of your au jus. Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami flavor.
For seasoning, dried thyme and black pepper enhance the roast. Olive oil helps with searing, locking in flavors.
When serving, choose fresh hoagie rolls. They hold the beef well and add texture. Provolone cheese melts beautifully on top. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor.
These ingredients come together for a rich and satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
- Seasoning the roast
Start with a 3-pound beef chuck roast. Rub it well with black pepper and dried thyme. This adds a rich, savory taste.
- Searing the meat
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the roast. Sear each side for about 4 to 5 minutes. Look for a nice brown crust. This step locks in flavor and moisture.
Slow Cooker Preparation
- Transferring ingredients to the slow cooker
After searing, place the roast in your slow cooker. Add 1 sliced onion, 4 minced garlic cloves, 4 cups of beef broth, and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Mix them gently.
- Cooking time and temperature
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 8 hours. The beef should be very tender and shred easily.
Assembling the Sandwiches
- Shredding the beef
After cooking, take the roast out carefully. Use two forks to shred the beef. Return it to the slow cooker so it can soak in the juices.
- Filling the rolls
Cut 6 hoagie rolls in half. Spoon a generous amount of shredded beef into each roll.
- Melting the cheese
Top each sandwich with a slice of provolone cheese. Place the filled rolls under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Flavor
To get great flavor, searing is key. This step locks in juices and adds depth. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear the beef on all sides until brown. This takes about 4-5 minutes per side. The crust adds a rich taste to the meat.
Using homemade broth makes a big difference. Store-bought broth can be salty. Homemade broth is fresh and full of flavor. If you don’t have time, choose a low-sodium option. This helps control the salt level in your dish.
Cooking Techniques
Slow cooking makes the meat tender. Cooking on low for 8 hours breaks down tough fibers. This results in juicy, easy-to-shred beef. The longer you cook, the better the flavor.
For the cheese, broiling is the best method. Once you fill the hoagie rolls, place them under the broiler. This melts the cheese perfectly. Keep an eye on it. It only takes 2-3 minutes to get bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishing the sandwiches can elevate your dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color. It also brightens the flavor. Serve your sandwiches with dill pickles. They add a nice crunchy contrast.
Consider pairing your French Dip sandwiches with chips or a salad. A simple green salad complements the rich meat. This balance enhances the meal’s appeal.
Variations
Different Types of Meat
You can swap the beef chuck roast for brisket or round roast. These cuts also work well and add different flavors. If you want a meatless option, try using mushrooms or jackfruit. Both provide a nice texture and soak up the rich au jus.
Cheese Options
Provolone is classic, but you can use Swiss or cheddar for a twist. Each cheese melts differently and adds unique taste. You can also add toppings like sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. These extras enhance the flavor and make each bite special.
Bread Alternatives
Hoagie rolls are great, but you can use baguettes or ciabatta. These options give you different textures. If you need gluten-free bread, look for gluten-free rolls. Many stores offer tasty choices that hold up well with the juicy filling.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store any leftover French Dip Sandwiches in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh. Leftovers can last up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Freezing
To freeze sandwiches, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven for the best taste.
Recommended Containers
Use glass or plastic containers for storage. Make sure they have tight lids. Label containers with the date you made the sandwiches. This helps you know how long they have been stored.
FAQs
How do I know when the beef is done cooking?
You can tell the beef is done when it is very tender. After about 8 hours in the slow cooker, it should shred easily with two forks. If you check it and it still feels tough, let it cook longer. The right texture makes all the difference in your sandwich.
Can I make French Dip Sandwiches in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! For Instant Pot cooking, use the sauté function first. Sear the beef for a rich flavor. Then, add the broth and other ingredients. Cook on high pressure for about 60-70 minutes. Let it naturally release pressure for best results, then shred as usual.
What can I serve with French Dip Sandwiches?
These sandwiches pair well with various sides. Consider serving them with:
- Dill pickles
- Potato chips
- Coleslaw
- French fries
- A simple green salad
These sides add crunch and freshness to your meal.
How do I reheat leftover sandwiches?
To reheat, you have a few easy options. You can warm the beef in the microwave or on the stove. Just add a little au jus to keep it moist. If you want to melt the cheese, place the filled rolls under the broiler for a few minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning!
Can I use a different type of broth for the au jus?
Absolutely! While beef broth is classic, you can mix it up. Use chicken broth for a lighter taste or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Each will add its own unique flavor to the sauce, making your dish special every time.
This blog post shared a simple way to make French Dip Sandwiches. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and various tips for great flavor. Each part builds a delicious meal. Remember, searing the meat brings out its taste. You can change up the meat and cheese too, making this recipe your own. Finally, storing leftovers properly helps you enjoy meals later. With these tips, your French dip sandwiches will delight everyone at your table. Now, gather your ingredients and enjoy cooking!
