Delicious French Dip Squares are a fun and tasty twist on the classic French dip sandwich. They’re made with tender roast beef, melty cheese, and a soft, golden bread that’s perfect for dipping into a flavorful beefy au jus sauce. These squares are easy to pick up and enjoy, making them great for parties or casual dinners.
I love making these French Dip Squares when I want something that feels special but doesn’t take too much time. The combination of juicy roast beef and melted cheese is always a hit, and dunking each bite into the warm au jus makes every mouthful extra satisfying. I usually make a big batch so there’s plenty to go around, and they often disappear faster than I expect!
One of my favorite ways to serve these squares is with a simple side of pickles or a fresh salad to balance out the richness. They’re great for sharing with family or friends, and I find they’re always requested at game day or holiday get-togethers. If you’ve never tried French Dip in a fun, bite-sized form, this recipe is definitely worth giving a go.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Roast Beef: Thinly sliced or shredded roast beef gives these squares their rich flavor. Leftover roast beef works great here. If you can’t find roast beef, thinly sliced deli roast beef is a good quick substitute.
Bread: Soft white sandwich bread creates a tender texture. Removing the crust helps make each square soft and easy to bite. You can also try a buttery Hawaiian bread for a slightly sweeter touch.
Cheese: Swiss cheese melts well and adds that classic French dip taste. Mixing in provolone adds a creamier melt. If you want a sharper flavor, try Gruyère instead.
Butter & Seasonings: Butter with garlic, onion flakes, parsley, and thyme adds great aroma and flavor. Dijon mustard is optional but adds a nice zesty kick. Fresh herbs can be used if you have them on hand.
Au Jus Sauce: Beef broth forms the base, enhanced by Worcestershire sauce and gentle seasonings. Low sodium broth lets you control salt levels. Soy sauce or beef base can deepen the flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Gooey Cheese and Soft Bread Without It Getting Soggy?
Balancing melted cheese and soft bread without sogginess is key. Here’s how:
- Brush the bread: Using the butter mixture on both layers helps toast and flavor the bread, creating a slight barrier against sogginess.
- Layer cheese and beef carefully: Adding cheese under and over the bread keeps it moist but not wet.
- Bake at medium heat: 350°F melts the cheese thoroughly while crisping the top gently without drying out the bottom.
- Let the squares rest: After baking, a few minutes let everything set so cheese stays gooey but bread holds its shape.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering bread, beef, and cheese evenly.
- Small mixing bowl – to mix melted butter with garlic and herbs easily.
- Basting brush – helps spread the butter mixture over the bread evenly for great flavor.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – to cut the baked squares cleanly without squishing them.
- Medium saucepan – for warming the au jus sauce gently while baking the squares.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap roast beef for thinly sliced roast turkey for a lighter, milder flavor.
- Add caramelized onions for a bit of sweetness that balances the savory beef.
- Mix in horseradish sauce with the butter for a spicy kick on the bread layers.
- Try cheddar or pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss for a sharper or spicier taste.
Delicious French Dip Squares Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich Squares:
- 2 cups cooked roast beef, thinly sliced or shredded
- 1 loaf soft white sandwich bread (about 12×4 inches), crust removed
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or a mix of Swiss and Provolone)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Au Jus Dipping Sauce:
- 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon soy sauce or beef base for a richer flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, plus 20-25 minutes to bake. While the squares are baking, you can easily prepare the au jus dipping sauce. Overall, you’ll have these tasty French Dip Squares ready to enjoy in about 40 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare the Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Make the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried onion flakes, dried parsley, thyme (if using), and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir well to blend all the flavors.
3. Assemble the Bottom Bread Layer:
Cut your bread slices if needed to fit the baking dish. Lay them evenly across the bottom, pressing lightly to close any gaps. Brush half of the butter mixture evenly over this bread layer.
4. Add the Beef Layer:
Spread the roast beef evenly over the bread. Season lightly with salt and pepper if you like.
5. Add Cheese and Top Bread Layer:
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the beef. Then place another layer of bread on top. Press gently to compact the layers, then brush the remaining butter mixture on the top bread.
6. Add Final Cheese Layer and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Prepare the Au Jus Sauce:
While the squares bake, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional soy sauce or beef base in a saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat until warm, but do not boil. Keep warm for dipping.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the baked squares and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut into bite-sized squares and garnish with fresh thyme if you like. Serve warm with the au jus sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delicious twist on a French dip sandwich!
Can I Use Frozen Roast Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and drain any excess moisture before using to keep the squares from getting soggy.
Can I Make These French Dip Squares Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the squares and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover French Dip Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, and warm the au jus sauce for dipping.
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread or Cheese?
Yes! Soft white bread works best for tenderness, but Hawaiian rolls or brioche are delicious alternatives. For cheese, Swiss is classic, but provolone, cheddar, or Gruyère make great tasty substitutions.
