Crockpot French Dip Sandwich

Quick Benefits

Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches are the perfect hands-off meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Slow-cooked beef becomes fork-tender, absorbing the rich flavors of au jus and Italian seasonings, making every bite juicy and satisfying. With a side of flavorful dipping broth, this sandwich is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or meal prep!

Essential Ingredients

To make this incredible slow-cooked sandwich, you will need:

• 5 pounds top or bottom round beef roast (boneless chuck roast works too)
• 2 ounces au jus mix (2 packages)
• 1.4 ounces Italian dressing mix (2 packages)
• 32 ounces beef broth (1 Tetra Pak)
• 8 hoagie buns
• 8 slices Provolone cheese

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Spray the slow cooker with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Roast: Place the beef roast into the crockpot and sprinkle the au jus mix and Italian dressing mix over it.
3. Add the Broth: Pour beef broth over the roast to create a flavorful cooking liquid.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender enough to shred with a fork.
5. Prepare the Dipping Broth: Once cooked, remove the roast and strain the broth into a bowl. This will be used for dipping the sandwiches.
6. Slice the Beef: Slice or shred the beef into thin pieces.
7. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place the sliced beef and Provolone cheese on hoagie buns.
8. Warm in the Oven: Wrap the sandwiches in foil and bake at 400°F for 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
9. Serve & Dip: Unwrap the sandwiches and serve with the strained broth for dipping.

Health Benefits

• High Protein Meal: This dish provides plenty of protein for muscle repair and satiety.
• Iron-Rich Beef: Helps support energy levels and overall health.
• Low Maintenance Cooking: A perfect meal for busy schedules, as the slow cooker does most of the work.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can adjust sodium levels by using low-sodium beef broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic French Dip: Serve with a side of au jus broth for dipping.
• Crispy Upgrade: Toast the hoagie buns before assembling for extra crunch.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor: Add caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or a dash of horseradish sauce.
• Pair with a Side: Enjoy with a crisp salad, sweet potato fries, or coleslaw.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or pepperoncini for heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella instead of Provolone.
• Garlic Butter Buns: Spread garlic butter on the hoagie rolls before baking.
• Keto-Friendly Option: Serve the beef in lettuce wraps instead of hoagie buns.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze shredded beef with broth in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm beef and broth in a saucepan over medium heat, or microwave with a little extra broth to retain moisture.

Pro Tips

• Let the Beef Rest: After removing from the slow cooker, let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Use High-Quality Beef: A well-marbled cut like chuck roast will be extra tender.
• Make Extra Broth: If you love dipping, double the beef broth for more au jus.
• Add a Crunchy Element: Toasting the hoagie buns gives them a delicious crisp texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast is the best option, but rump roast or brisket also work well.

2. How do I make this in an Instant Pot?
Set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (High) for 60 minutes, then allow a 15-minute natural release.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the beef a day ahead, store in the fridge overnight, and reheat before assembling the sandwiches.

4. What if I don’t have au jus mix?
Substitute with beef bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.

5. How do I keep my sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the buns before adding the beef, and don’t over-dip the sandwich in au jus.

Enjoy your Crockpot French Dip Sandwich—a tender, flavorful, and satisfying meal with minimal effort!

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