These Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are a warm hug in a bun! Tender beef is slow-cooked in a rich broth, making it super flavorful. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Using a slow cooker means you set it and forget it. I love dipping the sandwiches in the tasty broth—it’s like a mini party for your taste buds! 🍖🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and juicy. You could use a brisket or round roast, but they may be less flavorful. For a leaner option, try chicken or turkey, though the taste will differ.
Onion: Yellow onions are my favorite here because they add sweetness when cooked. If you want a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even shallots for a subtle twist.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works just as well. If you’re vegetarian, substitute with vegetable broth. For more flavor, you can mix in a bit of mushroom broth instead.
Worcestershire Sauce: This brings a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce can work as a substitute, but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the dish. There are also vegan versions available!
How Do I Get the Best Flavors When Cooking in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking in a slow cooker is fantastic for building deep flavors, but there are some tricks to make it even better. Season the meat well, and if you have the time, sear it first! This step locks in juices and adds richness.
- Start with layers: Place onions and garlic at the bottom before adding the roast. This helps them mellow and infuse their flavor into the beef.
- Use enough liquid: Ensure there’s enough broth and water to cover at least half of the roast for even cooking.
- Taste and adjust: After shredding the beef, taste the juices and add salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference before serving.
How to Make Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 6-8 French rolls or hoagie buns
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 8 hours of cooking on low (or 4 hours on high) in the slow cooker. After it’s done, a few more minutes will help you assemble the sandwiches. So, in total, you’ll need just about 8 hours and 15 minutes of your day, most of which is hands-off cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Roast:
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This will really enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
2. Sear the Meat (Optional):
If you have a little extra time, you can sear the roast for a deeper flavor. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the roast for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. This step is optional, but it adds a great touch!
3. Place in Slow Cooker:
Next, put the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seared (or raw) beef roast on top of the onions and garlic.
4. Add Liquid Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary together. Pour this mixture over the roast in the slow cooker, covering it well.
5. Cook:
Now it’s time to cover the slow cooker and cook! Set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. You want the beef to be tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Shred the Beef:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully take the roast out of the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the cooker and stir to coat it in the yummy juices. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Prepare Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the French rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll with a generous amount of shredded beef, and top with a slice of provolone cheese.
8. Melt Cheese:
Pop the sandwiches in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are just slightly toasted. Yum!
9. Serve:
Now, it’s time to serve! Enjoy your sandwiches with a side of the delicious broth from the slow cooker for dipping. If you like, you can garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or sirloin. Just ensure the cut has enough marbling for moisture and flavor during cooking.
How Can I Adjust the Flavor of the Broth?
If you’d like a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the broth mix. You can also add spices like smoked paprika for a deeper smokey taste.
What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan or microwave, adding a bit of beef broth to keep the meat moist. You can also freeze the shredded beef for up to 3 months!
Can I Make the Shredded Beef Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the beef a day in advance. Just let it cool before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stove with a splash of broth to bring it back to life!
