This Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich is a cozy treat! The tender beef slow-cooked in a tasty broth makes it super flavorful and easy to pull apart. Plus, the warm, toasted bread is perfect for dipping.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up! Just toss the ingredients in the crockpot, let it do its magic, and enjoy a delicious sandwich that feels like a hug on a plate. Who could resist that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is great for slow cooking as it becomes super tender. If you can’t find it, a brisket or round roast could work too! Just remember, tougher cuts are usually better for slow cooking.
Beef Broth: I recommend using low sodium broth, which lets you control saltiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken broth is an acceptable substitute. Vegetable broth would work well for a vegetarian version.
Soy Sauce: This adds a nice depth of flavor. For a gluten-free version, you can use tamari or coconut aminos, which taste similar without the gluten.
Cheese: I often go for Provolone, but mozzarella or cheddar could also be nice! If you’re dairy-free, vegan cheese is a good alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Beef Is Tender?
Cooking the beef slowly is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Always sear the beef before placing it in the crockpot. This caramelizes the meat’s exterior, enhancing flavor.
- Low and slow is the way to go! Cooking on low for 8 hours results in the best tenderness.
- After cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes before shredding. This keeps it juicy, and it’ll soak up more flavors when returned to the broth.
How to Make Easy Crockpot French Dip Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 cup beef broth (plus extra if needed)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
- 6 to 8 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns
- Provolone or Swiss cheese slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and then you’ll need to let it cook in the crockpot for either 8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. After cooking, just a few more minutes to assemble and broil the sandwiches make this meal easy and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Searing the Beef (Optional):
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the beef chuck roast. Sear it on all sides until it’s nicely browned—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step adds a great flavor but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
2. Prepare the Crockpot:
Slice the onion thinly and place it in the bottom of the crockpot. This will add sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef as it cooks.
3. Adding the Roast:
Carefully place the seared or raw beef roast on top of the sliced onions in your crockpot.
4. Mix the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper. Make sure it’s well combined, then pour the mixture over the beef in the crockpot.
5. Slow Cooking:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook the beef on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. You want the beef to be very tender and easy to shred when it’s done.
6. Shredding the Beef:
Once cooked, remove the beef roast from the crockpot. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the crockpot, mixing it back into those flavorful juices.
7. Broil the Sandwiches:
Preheat your oven broiler to high. Take the sandwich rolls and slice them in half. Load the bottom halves with generous amounts of the shredded beef. If you like cheese, top with slices of provolone or Swiss cheese. Place them on a baking sheet and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted.
8. Prepare the Au Jus:
Using a slotted spoon, scoop out some of the hot cooking liquid (au jus) from the crockpot into small bowls for dipping. Feel free to add extra broth if needed!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the hot French Dip Sandwiches immediately, alongside the au jus for dipping. Enjoy each bite of these scrumptious sandwiches!
These sandwiches are not just flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of juicy beef, melty cheese, and the warm, toasted rolls dipped in rich au jus creates a comforting meal you’ll love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! You can put frozen beef directly into the crockpot; however, you should increase the cooking time by about 1-2 hours. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F for the best shredding results.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and cooking liquid the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Just heat it in the crockpot the next day for about 6-8 hours on low until heated through and tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover shredded beef and au jus in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the beef for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, try using tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a lighter flavor. You can also use a homemade mixture of beef broth with a dash of vinegar for a similar effect.
