This Slow Cooker French Dip is a warm, tasty sandwich filled with juicy roast beef. It cooks slowly to make it super tender, and the broth is just perfect for dipping!
I love how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal waiting for you at dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking due to its fat content that keeps it tender and juicy. If you can’t find chuck, you can use brisket or round roast, but they might yield a slightly different texture.
Olive Oil: Used for searing, olive oil adds flavor and helps develop a crust on the meat. For a different taste, you could substitute it with canola oil or avocado oil. Either will work just fine.
Onion and Garlic: These are foundational for flavor. Yellow onions are great for sweetness, but sweet or white onions work too. For garlic lovers, adding more cloves can boost the aroma and taste.
Beef Broth: It adds depth to the dish. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake, or even homemade broth for a fresher taste. Vegetable broth is a good substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Dijon Mustard: It gives a nice tang. Whole grain mustard can add a different texture and flavor, or you could skip it completely if mustard’s not your thing.
Baguette Rolls: The crusty exterior of baguette rolls holds up well to the dipping sauce. If they’re not available, use hoagie rolls or any crusty bread. French bread or ciabatta can work well too!
How Can I Achieve the Best Searing on My Roast?
Searing the roast is key to adding flavor and depth. Here’s how you can ensure it’s done right:
- Heat the skillet on medium-high until it’s hot. A hot pan is essential for good browning.
- Add the oil, and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan. It should shimmer.
- Place the roast in the pan without crowding. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until it has a nice brown crust.
- Don’t move the roast around too much! Let it sit so it can develop its golden color.
After searing, you’ll notice a big flavor boost in the final dish. It’s worth the extra effort for delicious results!
How to Make Slow Cooker French Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 to 3 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Broth:
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 to 10 baguette rolls or crusty bread
- 8 to 10 slices provolone cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 8 hours to cook in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for a day when you’re busy but still want to enjoy a hearty meal later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Roast:
Start by seasoning the beef chuck roast with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper all over. This will help enhance the flavors as it cooks.
2. Sear the Meat:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the beef roast and sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned. This step really boosts the flavor of the meat!
3. Layer in Slow Cooker:
In your slow cooker, put the sliced onion and minced garlic at the bottom. Then, carefully transfer the seared beef roast on top of the onions. This will cook the meat and infuse the flavors together.
4. Make the Broth:
In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. When it’s well combined, pour this delicious mixture over the roast in the slow cooker.
5. Cook:
Now it’s time to cover the slow cooker and let it do its magic! Cook everything on low for about 8 hours, or until the meat is so tender that it shreds easily.
6. Shred the Meat:
Once the cooking time is up, remove the roast carefully from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it into the juicy broth.
7. Prepare the Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the baguette rolls in half, and if you want to enjoy some cheesy goodness, place a slice of provolone cheese inside each roll.
8. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now, fill each roll with the delicious shredded beef mixture. If you added cheese, pop the rolls into the oven for about 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese and get the bread nice and warm!
9. Serve:
Finally, serve your sandwiches with a small bowl of the au jus (that tasty broth) for dipping. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your delightful Slow Cooker French Dip!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as leaner cuts may cook faster and could become dry if overcooked.
How Do I Store Leftover French Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the shredded beef in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of beef broth to keep it moist. You can heat the rolls separately in the oven for the best texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Worcestershire Sauce?
Yes! If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tangy flavor. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, it is! You can freeze the shredded beef and au jus in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just remember, the bread rolls are best when fresh, so it’s recommended to assemble them right before serving!
