French Dip Sandwich Melt is a delicious twist on the classic French dip, featuring tender slices of roast beef piled high on toasted bread, melted cheese, and a side of rich, flavorful au jus for dipping. The cheese adds a gooey, melty layer that makes every bite even better, while the warm, juicy beef keeps things comforting and satisfying.
I love making these sandwiches when I want something hearty but easy to prepare. What I really enjoy is toasting the bread just right so it gets a little crispy but stays soft inside—perfect for soaking up that tasty jus. It’s a simple idea, but it makes such a great meal for a casual lunch or dinner, and it always feels special without much effort.
My favorite way to serve this sandwich melt is with some pickles on the side or a small salad to balance out all the richness. Everyone I’ve shared it with always asks for seconds, which is a solid sign that this is a winner. Plus, dipping the sandwich into the hot au jus just can’t be beat—it makes the flavors really come alive!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Roast beef: Using thinly sliced roast beef is a must for tender bites. Leftover roast or deli-style roast beef works well. For a quicker swap, you can use thin sliced steak or even turkey for a lighter option.
Provolone cheese: It melts beautifully and adds a mild creamy touch. Swiss or mozzarella are good alternatives if you want a slightly different flavor.
Onions: Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are best for this. If you don’t have fresh, onion jam or caramelized onion spread can speed things up.
Beef broth and seasonings: Low-sodium broth lets you control saltiness. Worcestershire and soy sauces boost umami—if you don’t have soy sauce, a splash of balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions Without Burning Them?
Caramelizing onions takes patience but makes a big difference in flavor. Here’s how to make it easy:
- Use medium-low heat and plenty of butter and oil to keep onions from drying out.
- Stir often—every few minutes—to cook evenly and prevent sticking or burning.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes until onions are deep golden brown and soft.
- Add garlic near the end so it doesn’t burn and adds fresh aroma.
Taking your time here pays off with sweet, rich onions that complement the beef perfectly!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for caramelizing onions evenly without burning them.
- Saucepan – to simmer and reduce the au jus for rich flavor.
- Baking sheet – makes broiling the sandwiches easy and keeps cheese from making a mess.
- Sharp knife – to slice rolls and roast beef cleanly for a neat sandwich.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap provolone for Swiss or mozzarella cheese for a milder or creamier melt.
- Use thinly sliced turkey or chicken instead of roast beef for a lighter option.
- Add sautéed mushrooms with the onions for extra texture and earthiness.
- Mix horseradish sauce into the au jus for a spicy kick before dipping.
How to Make French Dip Sandwich Melt?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sandwich:
- 1 lb roast beef, thinly sliced (preferably cooked or leftover)
- 4 hoagie rolls or French baguette sections
- 8 slices provolone cheese (2 per sandwich)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For The Au Jus:
- 2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 40-50 minutes total. About 30-35 minutes to caramelize onions and prepare the au jus, plus 5-10 minutes to assemble and broil the sandwiches.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, warm the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for about 25-30 minutes. Towards the last two minutes, add the minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Set the caramelized onions aside.
2. Make the Au Jus:
In a saucepan, mix the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to slightly reduce and intensify the flavors. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Keep warm while you prepare the sandwiches.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Slice the hoagie rolls or baguettes horizontally, leaving a hinge so they don’t fully separate. On the bottom half of each, layer thin slices of roast beef, add the caramelized onions on top, and place two slices of provolone cheese over everything.
4. Broil to Melt Cheese:
Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2 to 4 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly, and the bread turns lightly toasted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sandwiches from the oven and, if you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately with warm au jus on the side. Dip your sandwich bites into the jus for extra delicious moisture and flavor!
Can I Use Frozen Roast Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen roast beef, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before slicing. This will ensure the meat stays tender and slices smoothly for your sandwich.
Can I Make the Au Jus Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The au jus can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving to keep it warm and flavorful.
What Kind of Bread Works Best for French Dip Sandwich Melts?
Hoagie rolls or French baguettes are ideal because they hold up well when dipped in the au jus. Look for crusty bread with a soft inside to soak up the flavorful broth without getting too soggy.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes, if you don’t have provolone, Swiss or mozzarella cheeses are great alternatives that melt well and complement the beef nicely.
