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Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches: A Delicious Comfort Food Classic


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 7–8 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food. Tender, juicy beef is slow-cooked with caramelized onions and spices, piled onto crusty rolls, topped with melted Swiss cheese, and served with a savory au jus for dipping. Perfect for family dinners, game-day gatherings, or anytime you crave something hearty and satisfying.


Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat
  • 2 cups red onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 4 French rolls
  • 4 tablespoons mayonnaise or butter (for toasting rolls)
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese

Instructions

  • Prepare the Sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
  • Season the Roast:
    Season the chuck roast generously on all sides with salt and black pepper.
  • Layer in the Slow Cooker:
    Add half the sliced onions to the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour half of the prepared sauce over the onions. Place the seasoned roast on top, add the remaining onions, and pour the rest of the sauce over everything.
  • Slow Cook:
    Cover 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.
  • Toast the Rolls:
    Spread mayonnaise or butter on the cut sides of the French rolls. Toast in a hot skillet until golden and crispy.
  • Shred the Beef:
    Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Strain the cooking liquid to create a smooth au jus for dipping.
  • Assemble the Sandwiches:
    Layer shredded beef onto the bottom half of each toasted roll. Top with a slice of Swiss cheese and place the sandwiches on a baking sheet. Broil in the oven for about 1 minute, or until the cheese is melted.
  • Serve:
    Serve the sandwiches warm with a small bowl of au jus for dipping.

Notes

  • Use a chuck roast for its tender, flavorful results.
  • Toasting the rolls prevents them from getting soggy.
  • Strain the au jus for a smooth, professional-quality dipping sauce.
  • Leftover beef and au jus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American