Why Make This Recipe

Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches are a perfect meal for busy days when you want something easy yet delicious. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the beef to become tender and packed with flavor. The result is a satisfying sandwich that you can enjoy with friends and family.

How to Make Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches

Ingredients

3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
1 onion, thinly sliced
3 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
4-6 hoagie rolls
6 slices provolone cheese

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. This ensures that every bite of your sandwich is full of flavor. If you have a few extra minutes, searing the beef in a hot skillet before placing it in the slow cooker will give it a beautiful crust and deepen the flavors.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a delicious flavor base and prevents the beef from sticking. Lay the seasoned beef chuck roast on top of the onions. Then, pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. These ingredients combine to create a rich, savory broth that will later be used as the dipping sauce.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Shred the Beef
Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker so it can soak up even more of the flavorful juices.

Step 5: Toast the Hoagie Rolls
For the best texture, lightly toast the hoagie rolls before assembling the sandwiches. You can do this by placing them under the broiler for a minute or two or toasting them in a dry skillet until golden brown.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
Using tongs, pile the shredded beef onto each hoagie roll. Top with a slice of provolone cheese and place the sandwiches under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve with Au Jus
Strain the cooking liquid to remove the onions and pour the remaining broth into small bowls for dipping. Serve each sandwich with a side of this flavorful au jus and enjoy!

How to Serve Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches

Serve these sandwiches warm with the au jus on the side for dipping. You can also add some chips or a simple salad to complete your meal.

How to Store Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches

If you have leftovers, store the shredded beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the au jus separate to retain its flavor. You can reheat the beef and sauce on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Tips to Make Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches

For extra flavor, add some sliced mushrooms or peppers to the slow cooker.
Don’t skip the toasting step for the hoagie rolls; it adds a nice crunch.
Use high-quality provolone cheese for the best taste.

Variation

You can change up the cheeses by using mozzarella or Swiss cheese instead of provolone. You can also add some spicy mustard or horseradish to enhance the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but chuck roast works best for its tenderness and flavor.

2. Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate it. Just heat it up before serving.

3. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can use mushrooms and vegetable broth as a substitute for the beef to create a vegetarian version of this dish.