This Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich is a delicious way to enjoy tender beef served on fluffy rolls. The slow cooking makes the meat super flavorful and juicy!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love dunking that sandwich into savory broth? It’s the best part! I can’t resist having extra dipping sauce on the side. So good!
This recipe is perfect for busy days. Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook while you relax. It’s comfort food at its finest without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, as it gets tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, look for a round roast. It won’t be as juicy, but it will still taste great.
Olive Oil: I recommend olive oil for browning the meat, but you can also use vegetable oil or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand. Both will work well.
Onion: Sweet onions add a nice flavor when cooked down. You can swap with yellow or even red onions if that’s what you have. They’ll still taste fantastic!
Beef Broth: The broth provides moisture and flavor. Feel free to use low-sodium broth or homemade broth for a healthier option. If in a pinch, water can be used, but the flavor won’t be as rich.
Cheese: Provolone or Swiss cheese is delicious melted on top, but any melty cheese works! Mozzarella or even cheddar are great substitutes if you prefer those.
How Do I Get The Best Shredded Beef?
Shredding the beef correctly enhances your sandwich! Here’s how to do it easily.
- After cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding. This helps keep it juicy.
- Use two forks: Grab one fork to hold the meat steady and the other to pull the meat apart in shreds.
- Mix the shredded beef back into the au jus for a moister filling.
Trust me; this technique makes a difference! Enjoy your sandwiches even more this way!
Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 sandwich rolls (French rolls or hoagie buns)
- Provolone or Swiss cheese slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal! Just let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef roast with salt and pepper and place it in the hot skillet. Sear the roast on all sides until it’s nicely browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Once done, transfer the roast to the crockpot—it’s where all the deliciousness will happen!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. Then, transfer this tasty mixture to the crockpot as well.
3. Add the Broth and Seasoning:
Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the roast in the crockpot. Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary on top. This combination will infuse wonderful flavors into the beef!
4. Cook It Up:
Now, cover the crockpot and let it cook! If you’re using the low setting, let it go for 8 hours. If you’re crunched for time, the high setting will do the job in 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and can be shredded with ease.
5. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is done, take it out of the crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Then, return the shredded beef to the crockpot and mix it well with the juices (the au jus!).
6. Prepare the Sandwiches:
Slice the sandwich rolls in half. Pile a generous amount of the shredded beef onto each roll. If you’re a cheese lover, now’s the time to add those cheese slices on top!
7. Serve with Au Jus:
Finally, serve your sandwiches with a small bowl of the hot au jus on the side for dipping. Enjoy the warm, tender beef sandwiches and the flavorful broth—it’s comfort food at its best!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwiches!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness, you can substitute with a beef brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
How Can I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
Store any leftover beef and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You can assemble the sandwiches fresh to maintain the texture of the rolls.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef a day in advance and refrigerate it in its juices. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the meat and assemble your sandwiches. This makes for a super convenient meal!
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a mix of soy sauce (for saltiness) and a bit of vinegar (for acidity) can work as a substitute. Approximately 1 tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar should do the trick!
