Quick 15-Minute French Dip Sandwich Recipe: Restaurant-Style Beef and Cheese Delight

The Ultimate French Dip Sandwich Recipe Ready in 15 Minutes

Looking for a quick, satisfying meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen? This french dip sandwich recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes! Featuring tender slices of roast beef soaked in savory au jus and topped with melted provolone cheese, these sandwiches are perfect for busy weeknights or weekend lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Classic French Dip Sandwich

Despite its name, the French dip sandwich is an American creation with a rich history dating back to early 20th century Los Angeles. What makes this sandwich special is the dipping experience – warm, crusty bread filled with tender beef and melty cheese, dunked into flavorful beef broth (au jus) with each bite!

This recipe transforms deli roast beef into a gourmet sandwich experience with minimal effort. It’s:

• Quick: Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish
• Simple: Uses easy-to-find ingredients
• Customizable: Can be adapted with different cheeses or toppings
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike

Ingredients for the Perfect French Dip Sandwich

• 4 hoagie rolls (or French rolls), split lengthwise
• 1 pound thinly sliced deli roast beef
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• 2 (10.5 ounce) cans beef consommé
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium saucepan
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil (optional)
• Small bowls for serving au jus

How to Make French Dip Sandwiches at Home

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the beef consommé, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and thyme if using. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add the sliced roast beef to the simmering broth and cook for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4. While the beef is warming, lightly butter the inside of each hoagie roll.
5. Using tongs, remove the beef from the broth and divide it equally among the bottom halves of the rolls.
6. Top each sandwich with 2 slices of provolone cheese.
7. Place the sandwiches open-faced on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is lightly toasted.
8. Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls.
9. Strain the remaining broth into small bowls for dipping.
10. Serve the sandwiches hot with individual bowls of au jus on the side.

Pro Tips for the Best French Dip Sandwich

• Bread choice matters: A good French dip needs sturdy bread that can withstand dipping without falling apart. French rolls or crusty hoagie rolls work best.
• Beef options: While deli roast beef is quick and convenient, you can also use leftover homemade roast beef or prime rib for an even more flavorful sandwich.
• Cheese variations: Provolone is traditional, but Swiss, Gruyère, or even American cheese can be delicious alternatives.
• Enhance the au jus: For deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine or beef bouillon to the consommé.

Variations on the Classic French Dip

Slow Cooker French Dip

For a make-ahead version, cook a 3-4 pound beef roast in your slow cooker with beef broth, onions, and seasonings on low for 8 hours. Shred the beef and use the cooking liquid as your au jus.

Garlicky French Dip

Spread roasted garlic butter on your bread before toasting for an extra layer of flavor.

Mushroom and Onion French Dip

Sauté sliced mushrooms and onions until caramelized, and add them to your sandwich for additional depth and texture.

What to Serve with French Dip Sandwiches

Complete your meal with these perfect pairings:

• French fries or potato chips
• Simple green salad
• Coleslaw
• Pickles
• Crispy onion rings

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover sandwiches, store the components separately:

• Keep the beef in the au jus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Store unused bread at room temperature.
• To reheat, warm the beef and broth in a saucepan, then assemble and toast the sandwiches.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1 sandwich):

• Calories: 548 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 94mg
• Sodium: 2310mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

FAQs About French Dip Sandwiches

What is au jus?

“Au jus” is French for “with juice” and refers to the flavorful beef broth served alongside the sandwich for dipping.

Can I make French dip sandwiches ahead of time?

You can prepare the au jus and warm the beef ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and toast the sandwiches just before serving.

What’s the best bread for French dip sandwiches?

Crusty French rolls, hoagie rolls, or baguettes work best as they hold up well when dipped in the broth.

Can I make this recipe with other meats?

Yes! While traditional French dips use beef, you can make variations with roasted pork, turkey, or even lamb.

Master This Easy French Dip Sandwich Recipe Today

This french dip sandwich recipe proves that gourmet-tasting meals don’t require hours in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes and a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner any day of the week. The combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and savory dipping broth makes this a meal the whole family will request again and again!