Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches: Tender Beef with Savory Au Jus

Ultimate Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwich – Tender Beef in Rich Au Jus

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a classic French dip sandwich – tender, juicy beef piled high on a crusty roll and served with savory au jus for dipping. This slow cooker version transforms an affordable cut of beef into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this hearty sandwich is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This French Dip Recipe

• Set it and forget it: Just 10 minutes of prep time, then let your slow cooker do all the work
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable rump roast that becomes fork-tender after slow cooking
• Perfect for entertaining: Easily feeds a crowd with minimal effort
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings and sides
• Restaurant quality: Rivals any French dip sandwich you’d pay $15+ for at a restaurant

What You’ll Need for the Perfect French Dip

• 4 pounds rump roast (or chuck roast)
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed French onion soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) beef consommé or beef broth
• 1 bottle (12 oz) dark beer or ale (can substitute with additional beef broth)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 9 French rolls or hoagie buns
• 9 slices provolone or Swiss cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for toasting rolls)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker French Dip

1. Trim excess fat from the rump roast and place it in your slow cooker.
2. Pour the French onion soup, beef consommé, and beer over the roast. Add the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Once the beef is done, remove it from the slow cooker and place on a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. While the beef rests, strain the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, reserving the liquid (this is your au jus for dipping). Return the strained liquid to the slow cooker and keep warm.
6. Using two forks, shred the beef, removing any remaining fat or gristle.
7. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and keep warm until ready to serve.
8. Preheat your oven broiler. Slice the French rolls in half lengthwise and spread a thin layer of butter on each cut side.
9. Place the rolls buttered side up on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes (watch carefully to avoid burning).
10. Use tongs to pile the warm shredded beef onto the bottom half of each toasted roll.
11. If using cheese, place a slice on top of the beef and return to the broiler for 30 seconds, just until cheese begins to melt.
12. Ladle the warm au jus into small bowls for dipping.
13. Serve the sandwiches immediately with a side of au jus for dipping.

Expert Tips for the Ultimate French Dip Experience

• Choose the right meat: While rump roast is traditional, chuck roast or bottom round also work beautifully.
• Don’t skip the sear: For even more flavor, sear the roast on all sides in a hot skillet before adding to the slow cooker.
• The beer makes a difference: A dark beer adds depth, but any beer will work. Non-alcoholic option: substitute with more beef broth and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
• Toast those rolls: A properly toasted roll stands up to the juicy beef and prevents soggy sandwiches.
• Make ahead: The beef can be made 1-2 days ahead and reheated gently in its juices.

Variations on the Classic French Dip

• Cheesy French Dip: Add provolone, Swiss, or Gruyere cheese before broiling.
• Garlic Lovers: Rub toasted rolls with a cut garlic clove before adding beef.
• Horseradish Kick: Mix 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish with 1/4 cup mayonnaise and spread on rolls.
• Caramelized Onion: Top beef with caramelized onions for extra sweetness and texture.
• Mushroom Madness: Sauté sliced mushrooms and add to the sandwich for an earthy twist.

What to Serve with French Dip Sandwiches

Complete your meal with these perfect pairings:

• Crispy french fries or potato chips
• Creamy coleslaw
• Dill pickle spears
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables

Storing and Reheating Leftover French Dip

Refrigerate: Store leftover beef and au jus separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Freeze: The beef freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Warm the beef in its au jus over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid boiling, which can toughen the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Dip Sandwiches

What is the best cut of beef for French dip?

Rump roast is traditional, but chuck roast, bottom round, or brisket all work well for slow-cooked French dip sandwiches. The key is using a cut that benefits from long, slow cooking.

Can I make French dip in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sear the meat using the Sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 60-75 minutes, followed by a 15-minute natural release.

What makes a sandwich a “French dip”?

A French dip sandwich consists of thinly sliced roast beef (or other meat) on a French roll or baguette, served with a side of beef broth or au jus for dipping. Despite the name, it was actually invented in Los Angeles in the early 1900s!

The Perfect Conclusion to Your French Dip Journey

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for game day, this slow cooker French dip recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender, juicy beef and rich, savory au jus creates a memorable sandwich experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. So dust off that slow cooker, grab a good quality rump roast, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food sandwich!