Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches are one of those comfort food classics that truly shine in their simplicity. When I first tried making this dish, I was amazed at how the flavors blended together while the roast slowly simmered in the crockpot, filling my kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to put in minimal effort but ensure your family enjoys a hearty meal. Imagine tender, juicy beef piled high on a soft hoagie roll, topped with melty cheese, and complemented by a warm, savory au jus for dipping—it’s both satisfying and delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches. For starters, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that doesn’t require constant attention. Just toss the ingredients in your crockpot, turn it on, and let it work its magic. It’s unbelievably budget-friendly as well—using a less expensive cut of beef like chuck or brisket doesn’t sacrifice flavor or tenderness. Plus, this dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for weekend gatherings or cozy family dinners.

"I made these for my family last night, and they couldn’t stop raving about how tender the beef was! The cheese melted perfectly, and dipping it into the au jus was a game-changer." – Sarah L.

The Cooking Process Explained

Creating Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches is as easy as pie! You only need a few simple steps to bring this delicious recipe to life. Here’s what you can expect:

Gather your key ingredients.
Prepare the beef and other ingredients with minimal effort.
Set your crockpot and relax while the flavors meld together.
Shred the delicious beef and put it all together!
Enjoy every warm bite with a side of savory au jus.

What You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking process, be sure to gather these essential ingredients:

2 pounds beef roast (such as chuck or brisket)
1 onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
6 hoagie rolls
6 slices of provolone or Swiss cheese
Au jus for dipping

If you’re looking for substitutions, you could use chicken broth for a lighter taste or opt for mozzarella cheese if that’s what you have on hand. This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your pantry staples!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by placing the beef roast into the crockpot.
Next, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Cover and set your crockpot to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
Once cooked, remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the crockpot so it can soak up more juices.
While you wait, toast the hoagie rolls until they’re crispy and warm.
Fill each roll generously with the shredded beef, then top it off with a slice of cheese.
Serve your sandwiches with a side of warm au jus for dipping.

How to Plate and Pair

For a delightful dining experience, serve your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches on a large platter with a small bowl of warm au jus in the center. Pair these sandwiches with crispy potato chips or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the beef. Feel free to add some sliced pickles or jalapeños on the side for an extra flavor kick!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing your leftover Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches is a straightforward process. Allow them to cool completely before transferring what you won’t eat into an airtight container, and they will last in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded beef in a separate container—just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, gently warm the beef on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To enhance your sandwich game, consider these pro tips:

Always sear the beef in a hot skillet before placing it in the crockpot for added depth of flavor.
Don’t skip the seasoning! A good amount of salt and pepper enhances the dish significantly.
For a more robust flavor, let the beef marinate overnight in the broth and spices before cooking.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Try these variations to put a unique spin on your Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches:

Add sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms for a Philly cheesesteak-inspired twist.
Swap out the cheese for cheddar or fontina for a different taste.
For a spicy kick, mix in some sliced jalapeños or pepperoncini peppers.

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare? The preparation time is minimal, about 10–15 minutes. The crockpot will take care of the rest!
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can also use pork or even chicken, though cooking times will vary.
Is it safe to freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the shredded beef! Just make sure it’s adequately cooled and stored in an airtight container to ensure freshness.

With these details in hand, you’re well on your way to making unforgettable Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches that your friends and family will adore. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!

Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches

Savor tender beef piled high on soft hoagie rolls, topped with cheese, and paired with savory au jus for dipping—a perfect comfort food classic.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 8

Total Time 8 15

Course Main Course, Sandwich

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

For the Beef

2 pounds beef roast (such as chuck or brisket) Use a less expensive cut for better flavor.
1 medium onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth Can substitute with chicken broth.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste Don't skip the seasoning!

For the Sandwiches

6 pieces hoagie rolls Toast for a crispy texture.
6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese Can substitute with cheddar or fontina.
Au jus for dipping

Instructions

Preparation

Start by placing the beef roast into the crockpot.
Next, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Cover and set your crockpot to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
Once cooked, remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the crockpot to soak up more juices.
While you wait, toast the hoagie rolls until they’re crispy and warm.
Fill each roll generously with the shredded beef, then top with a slice of cheese.
Serve your sandwiches with a side of warm au jus for dipping.

Notes

To enhance flavor, sear the beef before placing it in the crockpot. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Keyword Beef Sandwiches, comfort food, Crockpot, French Dip, Slow Cooker