Description of this recipe: This Crockpot French Dip Sandwich recipe delivers a symphony of savory flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, all while requiring minimal effort. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, crusty hoagie roll piled high with thinly sliced, juicy beef, smothered in melted provolone, and then taking a dunk into a rich, flavorful au jus. This recipe makes that dream a delicious reality.
Why you will love this recipe: This recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks who crave restaurant-quality meals at home. The slow cooking process transforms a relatively inexpensive cut of beef into an incredibly tender and flavorful masterpiece. Forget standing over a hot stove; this recipe is primarily hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the crockpot works its magic. Beyond the convenience, the taste is simply irresistible. The combination of the savory beef, the salty au jus, and the creamy provolone creates a flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day.
Introduction
The French Dip sandwich, a classic American creation with a debated origin story, has long been a favorite for its simplicity and deeply satisfying flavor. While the traditional method often involves searing the beef and simmering it for hours on the stovetop, this Crockpot version offers a significantly easier and equally delicious alternative. The slow cooker allows the beef to braise in the flavorful broth, resulting in unmatched tenderness and a rich, concentrated au jus that elevates the entire experience. This recipe is designed for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices, promising a comforting and flavorful meal that is sure to become a family favorite. From game day gatherings to casual weeknight dinners, the Crockpot French Dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 5 pounds top or bottom round beef roast: Opt for a top or bottom round roast for the best balance of flavor and affordability. These cuts are leaner, which is ideal for slow cooking as they will become incredibly tender. A well-marbled roast will also contribute to a richer flavor.
- 2 ounces au jus mix: Using a pre-made au jus mix simplifies the process and provides a consistent flavor base. Look for a high-quality mix with natural ingredients for the best results. You can find these at most grocery stores in the gravy or soup mix aisle.
- 1.4 ounces Italian dressing mix: The Italian dressing mix adds a unique layer of complexity and depth to the broth. The combination of herbs, spices, and vinegar enhances the savory notes of the beef and au jus. Choose a mix with a good balance of flavors – not too salty or overpowering.
- 32 ounces beef broth: Beef broth serves as the foundation of the au jus, adding moisture and richness to the slow cooking process. Opt for a low-sodium broth to control the overall saltiness of the dish. You can also use beef stock for a richer, more intense flavor.
- 8 hoagie buns: Select sturdy hoagie buns that can withstand the weight of the beef and the moisture of the au jus. Look for buns with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior. Brioche or French rolls also work well.
- 8 slices Provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy, mild flavor that complements the savory beef and au jus. You can also use mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar if you prefer a bolder flavor.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prep the crockpot and place the beef roast inside. Spray the inside of your crockpot with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the roast from sticking to the bottom and make cleanup easier. Place the beef roast in the center of the crockpot. Ensure the roast fits comfortably and is not overly crowded. If your roast is too large, cut it in half to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Season with au jus mix and Italian dressing mix. Sprinkle the au jus mix and Italian dressing mix evenly over the beef roast. Use your hands to gently rub the seasonings into the meat, ensuring that all sides are coated. This will help the flavors penetrate the beef during the slow cooking process.
Step 3: Pour beef broth over the roast and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Pour the beef broth over the roast, ensuring that it reaches about halfway up the sides of the meat. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the roast, as well as the specific model of your slow cooker.
Step 4: Remove roast, slice thinly, and assemble sandwiches with Provolone cheese. Once the beef is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Allow the roast to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices redistribute and prevent the meat from drying out. Using a sharp knife or an electric meat slicer, thinly slice the beef against the grain. Divide the sliced beef evenly among the hoagie buns and top each sandwich with a slice of Provolone cheese.
Step 5: Warm sandwiches in the oven, unwrap, and serve with reserved broth for dipping. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each sandwich in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwiches are heated through. Carefully remove the sandwiches from the oven and unwrap them. Serve immediately with the reserved broth from the crockpot for dipping. Ladle the broth into small bowls or ramekins for easy dipping.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: 5/5 (Extremely Easy)
- Flavor: 5/5 (Exceptional)
- Ingredient Availability: 5/5 (Common Ingredients)
- Overall: 5/5 (Highly Recommended)
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic French Dip: Serve the sandwiches as is, with a generous portion of the reserved au jus for dipping.
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the sandwich.
- French Fries or Onion Rings: For a more indulgent meal, serve with a side of crispy French fries or onion rings.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the French Dip.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts offer a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it can become dry and stringy. Check for tenderness after 6 hours of cooking and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Thickening the Au Jus: If you prefer a thicker au jus, you can whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the broth during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Boost the Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef broth.
- Caramelized Onions: Add caramelized onions to the sandwiches for a sweet and savory element.
- Garlic Bread Buns: Lightly toast the hoagie buns with garlic butter for a more flavorful base.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the au jus mix for a hint of heat.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cook Time:
- 6-8 hours
Total Time:
- 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per sandwich, approximate):
- Calories: 650-750
- Protein: 50-60g
- Sodium: 1500-2000mg (varies depending on the au jus mix and broth used)
Conclusion
The Crockpot French Dip Sandwich is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and slow cooking. It’s a recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. From the tender, juicy beef to the rich, savory au jus, every element of this sandwich is designed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling completely satisfied. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your crockpot, and prepare to experience a culinary hug in every bite. This is a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
A: While top or bottom round roast are the recommended cuts for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other cuts. Chuck roast is a good alternative, as it also becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked. However, chuck roast tends to be fattier than round roast, so you may want to trim off some of the excess fat before cooking. Brisket can also be used, but it requires a longer cooking time to break down the connective tissue. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you choose a different cut of beef.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can cook the beef in the crockpot a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator along with the au jus. When you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches, simply reheat the beef and au jus on the stovetop or in the microwave. Assembling the sandwiches just before serving will prevent the buns from becoming soggy.
Q3: Can I freeze the cooked beef and au jus?
A: Yes, the cooked beef and au jus can be frozen for later use. Allow the beef and au jus to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The beef and au jus can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q4: What if I don’t have a crockpot? Can I make this recipe in the oven?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the beef roast in a Dutch oven or a large oven-safe pot. Season with the au jus mix and Italian dressing mix, then pour the beef broth over the roast. Cover the pot with a lid and bake in the oven for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Follow the remaining steps for slicing and assembling the sandwiches.
Q5: I’m watching my sodium intake. Are there any substitutions I can make to reduce the sodium content of this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Sodium can be a concern, but there are several adjustments you can make. First, use a low-sodium beef broth. Second, carefully select an au jus and Italian dressing mix that is labelled “low sodium” or “reduced sodium”. These mixes still provide excellent flavor, but with a significant reduction in salt content. Another great option is to make your own au jus from scratch using low-sodium beef broth, herbs, and spices. This gives you complete control over the sodium content and allows you to tailor the flavor to your liking.
