Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are a deliciously easy way to enjoy tender, juicy beef cooked low and slow until it just falls apart. This recipe is all about those rich, savory flavors that come from simmering the beef with onions and spices, then piling it high on soft sandwich rolls. The melty cheese and homemade au jus for dipping make every bite feel cozy and satisfying.
I love how simple this recipe is—you just throw everything in the crock pot and let it do its magic while you go about your day. It’s perfect for busy weeks when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. One tip I always follow is to get good sandwich rolls that hold up well to the dipping sauce, so your sandwich stays juicy but doesn’t fall apart.
These sandwiches always bring people together at my house because they’re so flavorful and fun to eat. I usually serve them with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. Plus, there’s something really satisfying about dunking your sandwich into that savory broth—it makes every bite extra tasty. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch, Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are a total crowd-pleaser in my book.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and juicy. If you can’t find chuck roast, brisket or sirloin tip roast are good alternatives.
Beef broth: Adds great depth to the au jus. If you want a richer flavor, try using beef bouillon or stock instead. Low-sodium versions work well if you want to control saltiness.
Worcestershire sauce: It brings a tangy, savory kick. If you don’t have it, soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar can work as a substitute.
Provolone cheese: It melts beautifully and complements beef nicely. You can swap it for Swiss, mozzarella, or even fontina if you want to try different tastes.
Hoagie or French rolls: Choose sturdy rolls that won’t get soggy when dipped. If these aren’t handy, sturdy baguettes or kaiser rolls are good stand-ins.
How Can I Make Sure the Beef is Tender and Flavorful?
Slow cooking is key to tender beef in this recipe. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start by searing the roast in hot oil to lock in flavor and create a tasty crust.
- Add onions and garlic to enrich the broth and the meat’s aroma.
- Cook low and slow for the best texture—8-9 hours on low or 4-5 on high.
- Shred meat gently with forks to keep it juicy and not stringy.
- Keep the shredded beef in the cooking juices for extra moisture and taste.
These steps ensure your beef is not only tender but bursting with rich, cozy flavors.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot or slow cooker – this is essential for slow-cooking the beef until it’s tender and juicy without you needing to watch it.
- Large skillet – for searing the roast and sautéing the onions and garlic; it adds extra flavor by browning the meat.
- Sharp knife – to slice the rolls and cut the beef before shredding.
- Two forks – perfect for shredding the cooked beef easily and quickly.
- Baking sheet – to broil the sandwiches so the cheese melts nicely on top.
- Small bowls – handy for serving the au jus broth for dipping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap beef with shredded chicken for a lighter version that still tastes great with the au jus dip.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra richness and a bit more texture inside the sandwich.
- Use different cheeses like Swiss or mozzarella for a milder or creamier flavor depending on your preference.
- Stir in a bit of horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard on the roll for a spicy kick that cuts through the rich beef.
How to Make Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth (divided)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 to 8 hoagie or French rolls
- 6 to 8 slices provolone cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 8-9 hours to cook on low (or 4-5 hours on high) in the crock pot. After cooking, assembling and broiling your sandwiches will take an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef Roast
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chuck roast, then sear it on all sides until it gets a nice brown color, about 4-5 minutes per side. This locks in the flavor and juices. Once browned, place the roast into the crock pot.
2. Add Onions, Garlic, and Seasonings
In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, transfer these to the crock pot, spreading them over the roast. Pour in 1½ cups beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the crock pot. Cook on low for 8-9 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.
4. Shred the Beef and Make Au Jus
Remove the roast and shred the beef with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the crock pot and stir to coat it with the juices. Add the remaining ½ cup beef broth to the crock pot juices and skim off any excess fat. You can strain the juices for a clear au jus or leave as is.
5. Assemble and Broil the Sandwiches
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Slice the rolls open and pile on a generous amount of shredded beef. Top each with a slice of provolone (or Swiss) cheese. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the warm sandwiches with small bowls of the au jus for dipping. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. Enjoy your tasty, tender Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches dipped in savory homemade au jus!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and tenderness, you can also use brisket or sirloin tip roast. Just adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure the meat is tender enough to shred.
Can I Make This Recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the sauté setting to brown the meat and onions, then pressure cook on high for about 60-75 minutes. Be sure to use natural pressure release to keep the beef tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shredded beef and au jus in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the meat feels dry.
What’s the Best Bread to Use for These Sandwiches?
Look for sturdy rolls like hoagie, French, baguette, or kaiser rolls. You want bread that can soak up the au jus without falling apart.
