Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a tasty treat! Tender beef simmers all day in a flavorful broth, making it perfect for piling on soft rolls.
As you build your sandwich, don’t forget to dip it in that delicious broth—it’s the best part! I love making these for game days or cozy nights! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful. If you want a leaner option, consider using beef brisket or round roast. Both will work well but may cook a bit differently.
Onion: A sliced onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you’re out of onions, shallots or even leeks can work as good substitutes!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma. If you need a quicker option, use 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for each clove, though it won’t be quite the same.
Broth: Beef broth is essential for flavor. For a lighter taste, chicken broth can also be used. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is an alternative, although it will change the overall flavor.
Cheese: I love provolone for its meltiness, but mozzarella is a great substitute if you prefer it. You could even try Swiss cheese for a different twist. Just keep in mind, taste can vary!
How Do I Get the Beef Tender in a Slow Cooker?
Getting tender beef is all about time and moisture. Here’s how to make sure your beef slow cooks perfectly:
- Season the beef well before adding it to the cooker to enhance its flavor.
- Make sure the beef is fully submerged in the cooking liquid. This ensures it cooks evenly and stays moist.
- Cook on low for the recommended time (8-10 hours). This slow process breaks down the connective tissues, making the meat tender. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting can work too, but it may not be as fork-tender.
- After cooking, let the beef rest before shredding it. This helps retain juices.
Feel free to taste the broth before serving! Adjust with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Enjoy making these sandwiches! They’re always a crowd favorite.
How to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 6-8 hoagie rolls
- 1-2 cups provolone or mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time in the slow cooker. You’ll need to cook the beef for 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. After cooking, it takes another 10 minutes to prepare the sandwiches and bake them. So, set aside a total of around 10 hours, but most of it is hands-off time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Beef:
Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper on both sides. This will help bring out the flavor as it cooks.
2. Preparing the Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, combine the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir everything together to mix well. This will be the base for your beef and broth.
3. Adding the Beef:
Place the seasoned beef roast into the slow cooker. Make sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. You’re well on your way to a tasty meal!
4. Cooking:
Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork. Take your time; slow and low is the way to go!
5. Shredding the Beef:
Once the cooking time is up, remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily—so satisfying!
6. Straining the Broth:
Strain the cooking liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to separate the solids. Keep this delicious broth for dipping your sandwiches!
7. Preparing the Hoagie Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, take the hoagie rolls and lay them on a baking sheet. Stuff each roll generously with shredded beef. Don’t be shy—you want it packed with flavor!
8. Adding Cheese:
Top the beef in each roll with shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese. This is where the magic happens!
9. Baking the Sandwiches:
Pop the loaded baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 5-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t over-brown.
10. Serving:
Serve the sandwiches hot, alongside the reserved broth for dipping. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch. Enjoy your mouthwatering Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket, round roast, or even pork shoulder. Just adjust the cooking time if you’re using a different cut; for lean cuts, you may want to reduce the cooking time slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef and broth in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded beef and broth in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth for moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this dish in advance! Cook the beef the night before, shred it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just heat it up before assembling the sandwiches. The flavors will be even better the next day!
What Should I Do if the Beef is Tough After Cooking?
If the beef isn’t tender after the suggested cooking time, simply cover and cook it a bit longer. Check every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired tenderness. Beef chuck can occasionally require more time, depending on its size and thickness.
