Crock Pot French Dip

Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. Tender, slowcooked beef falls apart effortlessly in a rich au jus gravy, making every bite juicy and flavorful. This recipe requires minimal effort but delivers a delicious meal that feels special and satisfying.

I started making this recipe when my schedule got hectic and now it's a staple in our household. Everyone loves dipping the sandwich into the savory au jus and it's become a favorite family dinner that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• Beef round steak or chuck roast: choose a wellmarbled cut for tender, juicy meat that shreds easily
• Onion soup mix: storebought is convenient but homemade adds a fresher flavor look for blends without additives
• Au jus gravy mix: adds that classic rich, beefy depth if unavailable brown gravy mix can substitute
• Beef broth or stock: low sodium works best to control saltiness adds liquid for slow cooking
• Water: balances the broth and seasoning for the perfect juiciness
• Mozzarella or provolone cheese: provolone is traditional for its mild meltiness mozzarella works well for a creamier texture
• Sub rolls: fresh and soft rolls provide the perfect base for soaking up juices French bread is a great alternative

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat a little oil in a pan over mediumhigh heat. Brown both sides of the beef roast without cooking it fully through. This step is optional but enhances the beef's flavor hugely by creating a caramelized crust.

Prepare the Slow Cooker:

Place the browned roast in the slow cooker. In a medium bowl, stir together beef broth, onion soup mix, au jus seasoning, and water until well combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the beef.

Cook Low and Slow:

Cover the slow cooker and let the beef cook on low for about eight hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid as this will slow cooking and make the meat tougher. This long, slow cook breaks down the fibers and makes shredding easy.

Shred or Slice the Beef:

An hour before you want to eat remove the meat and shred it with two forks or slice it thinly. Return the beef to the slow cooker to soak in the juices for the final hour.

Assemble and Broil the Sandwiches:

Preheat your broiler. Place sub rolls on a baking sheet pile on the shredded beef and top with slices of cheese. Broil just long enough to melt the cheese and lightly toast the rolls. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Serve with Au Jus:

Ladle some of the slow cooker juices into small bowls for dipping. If needed strain or add a bit more beef broth to ensure you have enough flavorful au jus for everyone's sandwiches.

My favorite part is the au jus gravy it turns a simple sandwich into something so rich and satisfying. One time my family gathered around dipping these sandwiches during a game night and it instantly became our go to comfort food for cozy evenings.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container with the beef and au jus separated. Refrigerate for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the slow cooker to keep the meat moist.

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap the beef round steak for chuck roast or even presliced roast beef to save cooking time. If you avoid packaged mixes try making your own onion soup blend using dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and herbs.

Serving suggestions

Offer crispy French fries or kettle chips alongside. A simple green salad balances the richness perfectly. For a fun twist add sauteed mushrooms or caramelized onions on top of the beef before adding cheese.

This simple slowcooker French dip is comforting and easy to make. It's perfect for busy weeknights and feeds a crowd.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What cut of beef works best for slow cooking?

Chuck roast or beef round steak are ideal for slow cooking as they become tender and flavorful over extended cooking times.

→ Can I use homemade onion soup mix instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade onion soup mix adds fresh flavor and allows control over salt and seasoning.

→ How should I serve the au jus sauce?

Strain the cooking liquid and serve warm alongside the sandwich for dipping to enhance the savory experience.

→ What cheese is traditionally used on these sandwiches?

Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella works well too for a creamy melted topping.

→ Should I brown the beef before slow cooking?

Browning the beef in a hot pan adds depth of flavor but is optional if pressed for time.

→ What breads are best for assembling these sandwiches?

Soft sub rolls or French bread are ideal as they hold the beef and cheese well while absorbing the au jus flavors.